AWARD School Names Six State Finalists for 2026 National Top Student Title

The Australasian Writers and Art Directors (AWARD) has revealed six state finalists competing for the 2026 AWARD School national top student title. The finalists were recognised at graduation events held across the country, with each receiving an AWARD School Gold Pencil in recognition of the strength and originality of their creative portfolios.

The 2026 finalists are Eva Schmitz from New South Wales, Tommy Hogan from Victoria, Bailey Gatland from Western Australia, Belinda Rabe from Queensland, Furkan Erbasi from South Australia and Louis Devine, representing the Online Program.

They were selected from a cohort of nearly 200 students from Australia, New Zealand and the wider Asia-Pacific region who completed AWARD School’s intensive 12-week creative development program.

The program’s leading tutor agencies this year included Clemenger BBDO and Droga5 in New South Wales, along with TABOO and Special Australia in Victoria.

Josie Fox, Creative Director at BMF Australia and AWARD School Co-Head, said reaching the state finalist stage was a significant accomplishment given the strength of this year’s cohort. She highlighted the finalists’ originality, curiosity and ability to approach creative challenges from different perspectives, describing these qualities as essential to the future of the advertising industry.

The six portfolios will now be assessed by an international Super Jury, with the national top student scheduled to be announced at the 47th AWARD Awards on August 13.

The competition will also provide another international opportunity through AWARD School’s partnership with the London International Awards (LIA). One student will receive a Young Creative LIAisons Grant, allowing them to travel to Las Vegas, attend LIA judging and gain direct exposure to leading global creative professionals.

Barbara Levy, President of LIA, said the organisation was pleased to support AWARD School and provide emerging talent with an opportunity to experience international judging and learn directly from established industry figures.

The 2026 AWARD School program is supported by Meta, Commercial Radio & Audio (CRA) and the Outdoor Media Association (OMA), which continue to contribute to the development of emerging creative talent across the region.