PACKAGING Innovations & Empack has launched a new Mentor of the Year category within the Future Trailblazer Awards 2027, designed to recognise individuals helping to develop, support and inspire the next generation of packaging professionals.
The category acknowledges the role mentors play in building skills, confidence and careers across the industry. Open to anyone working in or connected to the global packaging sector, the award celebrates those who share their knowledge, champion emerging talent, and make a difference to the people around them.
While the Future Trailblazer Awards have traditionally celebrated the achievements of early-career professionals, Packaging Mentor of the Year recognises the experienced individuals who help make those achievements possible. The category is open to mentors from every part of the packaging value chain, whether they are developing apprentices, coaching colleagues, creating opportunities for future leaders, or helping others build the confidence and skills to progress within the industry.
Casey McHugh, senior conference & community manager – UK & global at Easyfairs, said, “Future Trailblazer has always been about recognising exceptional people at the beginning of their careers. But behind almost every Future Trailblazer is someone who encouraged them, challenged them, shared their experience, or simply believed in them when it mattered most. Packaging Mentor of the Year allows us to celebrate those people. Great mentors don’t just develop technical skills. They build confidence, open doors and help create the future talent our industry depends on.”
Entries will be judged by previous winners of the Future Trailblazer Awards, who will assess nominees on the impact they have had on others, their commitment to mentoring, evidence of supporting personal and professional development, and the lasting contribution they have made to the future of the packaging industry.
Josephine Shaw, packaging technologist at Unilever, said, “It’s a full-circle moment. Having experienced the support of mentors in my own career, it’s a privilege to celebrate the people who encourage others to grow, build confidence and reach their potential.”
Jess Morgan-Butler, senior technical designer at Carlton Packaging, added, “I’m so pleased to be a part of the judging panel and can’t wait to celebrate those mentors doing amazing things across our industry.”
The winner will be announced on 24 February at the NEC Birmingham. Professionals can nominate themselves or a colleague by 2 November 2026. To submit a nomination, click here.
