After the success of the inaugural Rising Star Awards in Nairobi in June 2014, entries have formally opened for the prestigious second CfC Stanbic Rising Star Awards and the organizing companies invite all Kenya’s young, talented people to enter and stand a chance of joining the prestigious Rising Star Network – an elite group of Tomorrow’s Leaders.
According to Laura Barker, MD of BlackBark Productions, “Rising Stars are polished, brilliant talent with tremendous promise and who excel for reasons that go far beyond their technical abilities alone. They make things happen, are highly committed to achieving goals, innovate very rapidly, and create a great deal of value, for companies and themselves, when their talent is spotted and harnessed.”
There are ten industry categories in this year’s awards – one more than 2014, covering a broad spectrum of different professions. These include Banking & Financial Services, Construction, Energy & Chemicals, Entrepreneur, ICT, Logistics & Supply Chain, Media & Marketing, Professional Services, Manufacturing, Retail & FMCG, Service: Public & Private, and Tourism & Hospitality.
Barker adds that the Rising Star Programme is far more than just an awards ceremony, stating: “The programme will establish a living community of young Kenyan talent that will be developed, mentored and provided with necessary platforms for development and communication. This will enable them to become role models, opinion leaders and the inspiration for other future Kenyan talent. In short, the programme will nurture these organisational and national assets who are set to play a key role in shaping the country and our continent.”
These objectives will be achieved through the Rising Star Network – a closed network for the Rising Star Awards finalists, judges and mentors to provide ongoing support and learning.
The CfC Stanbic Rising Star Awards are supported by additional sponsors such as Engen and Airtel among others.
Tshepo Sibilanga, Head of Global Talent at Standard Bank: “The Rising Star Awards are an ideal platform to showcase Kenyan talent that has the potential to make a difference. CfC Stanbic invests significantly in education and skills development beyond our own needs. We are proud to make a contribution, together with industry, business partners and key stakeholders, in developing and nurturing Kenyan talent so that together, we shape tomorrow.”
Those who wish to enter (either themselves or someone they would like to nominate) have until Friday 30 January, 2015 to do so. Entry forms can be obtained by completing a short request form at www.rising-star.co.ke. The 2015 CfC Stanbic Rising Star Awards finalists will be announced to the press in April, followed by the awards ceremony on 24 April in Nairobi.
