Young champions put through the mill

Seven young chemists have been scrutinised closely recently. They have all been seeking the esteem of winning the title ‘Young Person of the Year’. Representing different regions across the UK, they have been through regional judging processes and come through victorious.

This prestigious national award assesses the ability, enthusiasm and leadership skills of young people in the chemical industry throughout the UK. All the entrants, who are either Members of SCI or whose employers are in the UK Chemical Industries Association, had to demonstrate their understanding of the issues and challenges faced by the industry. They have also shown that they have studied public attitudes, listened to concerns and taken steps to change the negative perceptions of the important work the industry does.

Regional winners
All regional winners, including the team from Harlow, Essex (above), spent a three-day stint in London at the end of May. The first day was designed to encourage winners to get to know each other. They took a trip on the London Eye, a tour around and lunch in the Houses of Parliament (co-incidentally taking place on the same day that a flour bomb was thrown at UK Prime Minister Tony Blair). On the second day, each winner attended presentation skills training. But the final day was the real test when each candidate gavea presentation at a final judging session.

Judged by Mike Lancaster of the CIA, Richard Denyer of SCI, Shachi Sharma, SCI Young Chemists' Panel, and David Firn of the Financial Times, the young chemists had to show why they were the worthy recipient of the prize.

Award ceremony
The winner of the Young Person of the Year Award will be announced at the CIA Awards Dinner at the Palace Hotel in Manchester on 6 July. The winner will win an educational trip abroad, a trophy and cash prize. They will represent the industry at various functions and will take part in activities organised by the SCI and CIA.