Why AWARD Crash 2025 is definitely the crash course every mid-senior creative needs
Brilliant work may flow and award shortlists may follow, but agency life demands more: the ability to articulate ideas with impact, to judge, sell and defend work with conviction, to navigate tough conversations, and to stay focused when pressure peaks.
These are the lessons no one formally teaches – the secret business of being a creative. Yet, mastering them is critical for anyone who wants to progress.
Enter AWARD Crash – the crash course built by a formidable lineup of Australia’s most awarded and respected creative leaders, designed to fast-track mid-senior talent through the skills needed when reality bites. Distilled, sharp and supremely practical, these are lessons that land immediately, back in the agency.
Launching in Sydney on 8 September, with Melbourne and Perth to follow, AWARD Crash comprises five action-based modules led by industry greats:
• Judging Creative Work – Toby Talbot, Sarah McGregor, Paul Coghlan
• The Language of Ideas – Julian Schreiber, Tom Martin, Hilary Badger, Tim Newton
• The Power of Presenting – Gavin Chimes, Psembi Kinstan, Dean Hunt
• Negotiation & Conflict Resolution – Mandie van der Merwe, Avish Gordhan, Sharon Edmondston, Richard Berney
• Creative Career Progression – Lea Walker, Emma Robbins, Amber Martin
Says Mandie van der Merwe, AWARD Chair: “AWARD Crash recognises that creatives already love the work – but excelling at the business of creativity takes more. These modules cut straight to the lessons that matter, delivered with the sharpness and urgency today’s talent needs and our industry demands.”
For associate and creative directors, Crash is the one-stop shop for the skills that wrap around their craft. For ECDs and CCOs, it’s the fast lane for rising stars, arming them with instincts and resilience to take the next step.
Course dates: 19-21 Sept in Sydney, Oct 3 in Perth & Oct 3-4 in Melbourne.