National Print Awards winners, Isobel Clark from Flying Colours Group, and Zaidee Jackson from Ball & Doggett, are in London conducting a professional development trip with the Visual Media Association (VMA).
Clark and Jackson, who took home the Emerging Talent and Woman of the Year awards respectively at this year’s National Print Awards, represented Australia at the Power of Print Conference, which is sponsored by Ricoh Australia, Konica Minolta and Plockmatic Group.
Hosted by Two Sides UK and the British Printing Industries Federation (BPIF), the Power of Print Conference is an annual gathering of global print and paper leaders, exploring sustainability, innovation, and the evolving role of print in a digital world.
The Australian delegation joined hundreds of delegates from across Europe for a week of learning, networking, and industry exchange.
Kellie Northwood, chief executive officer of the VMA, said the London trip exemplifies the Association’s commitment to recognising excellence and developing the next generation of industry leaders.
“This is an incredible opportunity for our Australian representatives to engage with global thought leaders and to see the print, sign and communication sectors through an international lens,” said Northwood.
“We thank the Two Sides UK team for their generous support and organisation of the Power of Print Conference, and we especially thank our Australian sponsoring partners, Ricoh Australia, Konica Minolta and Plockmatic Group, without whom we could not have brought these worthy winners to such a fabulous week filled with knowledge sharing and networking.”
The winners will also tour the Ricoh, Konica Minolta and Plockmatic Group UK Experience Centres, attend the Two Sides International Country Managers meeting, and connected with BPIF, the World Land Trust, and several leading UK print and media organisations.
“The experience was an invaluable opportunity to exchange ideas and connect with international colleagues,” said Jackson.
“The Power of Print Conference was a remarkable experience. The opportunity to hear from global leaders, share ideas, and learn how others are driving sustainability and innovation across their markets was invaluable.
“It reaffirmed the importance of collaboration and how much we can learn from one another across borders.”
For Clark, the experience was equally rewarding.
“It was an incredible opportunity to represent Australia and be part of such a global conversation about the future of print. The whole trip was amazing – the people we met, the insights we gained, and the passion everyone had for the craft of print,” Clark said.
“I encourage anyone in our industry who is early in their career to get involved and enter the National Print Awards. The experience is truly one of a kind.”
Chris Toll, regional sales manager – ANZ at Plockmatic Group, who joined the delegation, said supporting the winners through this international program is part of the Group’s broader commitment to industry development.
“This trip has been enriching for everyone involved. The conference was filled with information, inspiration, and ideas to bring home to Australia,” Toll said.
“As a proud sponsor, Plockmatic Group is delighted to play a role in recognising excellence and help build future leaders for our industry.”
The National Print Award UK tour forms part of the VMA’s ongoing commitment to professional development and its strategic focus on connecting Australian print professionals with the global market.
“When our industry’s rising leaders connect with international peers, they return home inspired and equipped with new ideas that strengthen our entire sector. That’s what programs like this are all about – sharing knowledge, building confidence, and ensuring our industry remains vibrant and future-focused,” Northwood concluded.