Putting an emphasis on the importance of injecting new blood into the print industry, Ipex 2014 (24-29 March, ExCeL London) will run an exciting programme in the World Print Summit theatre on the Saturday that has been designed specifically for students from secondary schools, colleges and universities. The Ipex 'Youth Day' programme will feature a range of presentations on the power of print from innovative industry experts, as well as practical workshops, a tour of Ipex and career advice for students.
Presentations will cover a wide range of engaging and attention-grabbing topics on the versatility of print and its role within the modern day multi-channel marketing mix. These sessions will be run by print gurus, including John Charnock from Print International Research, documobi founder Peter Lancaster and Talking Print Co-Founder David Hyams. In addition, prodigal students that have already made their mark on the print and media industry, such as Robin Harrison from t-shirt screen printing company OurKid Apparel, Sarah McLeod, designer behind luxury scarf label NANUKK, and Alex Pink, CEO of Eat Cake Media, will give pertinent insights into their fledging careers.
In the afternoon, students can go on a walking tour of Ipex at ExCeL London, providing them with the opportunity to meet key exhibitors and participate in t-shirt screen printing and interactive print workshops. There is also a 'Print is Big' treasure hunt for the chance to win an iPad with pioneering software that brings print to life, and a 'Year's Worth of Mentoring' provided by Patrick Martell, CEO of St. Ives and one time apprentice himself. This mentoring includes a minimum of four meetings over the academic year (October – September), providing the winner with invaluable support during their postgraduate studies and help with career planning.
"The Youth Day is aimed at any young students who are thinking about a future career in print, communications or graphic design," says Ruth Clougherty, Content Producer for the Ipex 2014 World Print Summit and the Youth Day. "We've worked with a number of organisations – including The Prince's Trust, BPIF, Shine School Media Awards and Printing Charity to name but a few – to develop a day that is engaging, insightful and of course, fun. It's a great place for younger people to see print in a light they may not have considered before, truly grasping its power in the modern communications world."
"We are very pleased to have this opportunity to partner with Ipex 2014 and support the Youth Day," explains Sue Pandit, Chair of the Shine School Media Awards. "The Shine Awards has been created to recognise young creative talent, encourage a respect for copyright and support schools offering information on publishing and print as a career choice. We know that Ipex is putting together a full programme of interesting and stimulating events which is bound to encourage involvement at the cutting edge of technology across the industry."
Kathy Woodward, CEO of the BPIF, comments: "We're delighted to work with Ipex on this fantastic programme. For most people around the world, print provides the colour in everyday life, and its benefits are endless. This day will no doubt inspire the young attendees to pursue a career in an industry that not only possesses a great history, but one that promises to have a great future too."