Young professionals connected to Yeovil and the wider Somerset business community have a final opportunity to be recognised through a new countywide programme celebrating emerging talent. Somerset Chamber of Commerce says nominations for the inaugural Somerset Future 30 must be submitted online by August 14.
The initiative will select 30 outstanding professionals aged 30 or under who are making a meaningful contribution through business, innovation or community engagement. Yeovil College and NextGen Somerset are among the confirmed sponsors, putting the programme’s search for rising talent firmly on the local agenda.
Who can be nominated?
Nominees must be aged 30 or under and either employed or self-employed by an organisation based in Somerset. Businesses are being encouraged to put forward promising members of their teams, while individuals may also nominate themselves.
The Chamber says judges will consider people who consistently exceed expectations, show ambition and make a tangible difference in their workplace, sector or community. That could include someone leading a project, introducing innovation, supporting colleagues or contributing to the wider community.
There is no charge to enter. Nominations will be assessed by an independent panel of local business leaders, rather than through a public vote or a contest producing a single overall winner.
What selected nominees will receive
Unlike traditional awards programmes, Somerset Future 30 is intended to recognise a group of exceptional individuals. Those selected will be recognised and profiled, with the programme culminating in a celebration event bringing together young professionals and senior leaders from across Somerset.
Somerset Chamber managing director David Crew said: “We’ve had a fantastic response since launching Somerset Future 30 and there is still time for businesses and individuals to get involved.”
He added: “We know there are exceptional young people making a real difference in organisations and communities across the county, but too often their achievements go unrecognised.”
Mr Crew urged potential nominators not to wait, saying: “Whether it’s someone leading a project, driving innovation, supporting colleagues or making a wider impact in their community, we want to hear their story. With the deadline on August 14 fast approaching, now is the time to submit a nomination.”
How to put someone forward
Nominations must be completed online before the August 14 closing date. Full information and the nomination process are available at somerset30.co.uk.
The Chamber has developed the programme’s branding and website with creative partner Hatched Agency. Barclays and Elite Staffing Solutions have also confirmed sponsorship, alongside Yeovil College and NextGen Somerset.
