The Society of Dyers and Colourists (SDC) announces that entries are now open for the prestigious Global Colourist Award 2025. This international award recognises outstanding talent and innovation within the coloration industry, celebrating the achievements of colourists in the first 10 years of their career.
The Global Colourist Award is designed to highlight the depth of knowledge, creativity, and diversity within the industry. Open to professionals across various sectors, including textiles, dyes and pigments, leather, food, paint, production dyeing, shift dyeing, and printing, the award is a benchmark of excellence for those shaping the future of colour science and application.
Entries opened on 1 February 2025, with a submission deadline of 30 June 2025. The winner will be announced mid-September and the award presented at the SDC Day of Celebration in October 2025 in the UK.
Last year’s winner, Joanna Kay ASDC of Heathcoat Fabrics Ltd, was celebrated not only for her technical knowledge and creativity but also for her perseverance in achieving Associateship of the SDC while balancing full-time work. Nominated by her manager Sarah Marshall, Joanna was recognised for her outstanding contributions to innovating dyeing processes, improving recipes, and bridging the gap between design and technical knowledge.
Reflecting on her award, Joanna expressed her gratitude: “I was, and still am, incredibly grateful for this recognition and the support I received throughout my journey. Balancing full-time work with my studies was challenging, but the experience has been invaluable. The award reinforced my passion for colour science and motivates me to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation in the industry.”
Dr Graham Clayton, chief executive officer of the SDC, commented: “The Global Colourist Award is an important initiative that showcases the remarkable talent emerging in the coloration industry. We are proud to recognise and celebrate the achievements of early-career colourists who are shaping the future of our sector with their innovation and expertise.”
The winner will receive a £1,000 cash prize, generously sponsored by Advanced Chemical Holdings Ltd, along with a fully funded trip to the awards ceremony in the UK, offering networking and professional development opportunities. They will also be featured in The Colourist magazine, showcasing their success and contribution to the industry.
The award is open to colourists working in any field, including development, application, testing, colour management, and quality control. Whether they are a production dyer, a pigment specialist, or a printing colourist, if they are in the first 10 years of their career, this is an opportunity to gain global recognition for their contributions to the industry.
To enter or nominate a deserving colourist, visit the SDC website for full details on submission requirements and eligibility criteria.
Source: The Society of Dyers and Colourists (SDC)