From PPAI Josh Ellis Publisher & Editor-in-Chief 11.24 Most honors like this one are exclusive. But the future of the industry is too important to exclude anyone willing to put in the work to grow and make it better. How Stars Are Made WHAT MAKES SOMEONE A RISING STAR in the promotional products industry? It’s a question PPAI’s staff judges are forced to ask themselves every year, and one of the most common we hear from members. The truth is there’s no straightforward answer. From its genesis nearly 15 years ago, the program’s criteria has been open for individual interpretation, and only this year was an age limit instituted. In 2024, nominees needed to be 40 years of age or younger. For some members, the purpose of the program is to reward people early in their promo careers who clearly have the potential to contribute on a higher level. To others, the goal is to recognize those who are already stretching themselves as volunteers at the national or regional level, or who have shown a commitment to giving back in their communities. Many would argue that the aim is to identify emerging leaders whose influence on the entire market will only grow in the years to come. As one of the five judges, I can tell you that it’s a near-impossible task to choose between the incredible young people submitted for the honor each year. Some receive heartfelt words of nomination from established changemakers in the industry. More have played pivotal roles in the growth of impressive, impactful industry firms. Others are being groomed to lead family businesses and must prove every day that they are up for the monumental task. Only 12 individuals can earn the title each year, which in 2024 left more than 160 other nominees, many very deserving, to wait for another chance. And certainly there are countless additional stars in the making throughout the promo landscape. Most honors like this one are exclusive. But the future of the industry is too important to exclude anyone willing to put in the work to grow and make it better. With that in mind, PPAI is proud to make an important announcement that member companies will want to keep in mind for 2025. In addition to the annual PPAI Magazine cover story, the Rising Stars are recognized at the Association’s annual Leadership Development Conference. Historically the forum for promo regional associations to come together for education and collaboration, the fall event has expanded over the last two years with the advent of an Emerging Leaders educational track. In 2023 and 2024, PPAI invited both the Rising Stars and a small group of additional young professionals as a pilot for reimagining our support for this essential community. In 2025, the Emerging Leaders sessions at LDC will be open to the entire community of industry up-and-comers. While only 12 may earn PPAI Rising Stars recognition in a given year, the opportunity for professional development will not be limited by award status. Attendees will not only have the opportunity to network with their peers, but can earn credits toward PPAI’s industry-leading certifications. They will return to their companies hungrier and better prepared to make a positive impact. On top of that announcement, I want to offer another round of congratulations to the 2024 PPAI Rising Stars. You have each devoted the time and energy to prove yourselves worthy of this recognition. Thanks to you and your many impressive young contemporaries, the future of promo has never been brighter. 4 • NOVEMBER 2024 • PPAI
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