VMA LAUNCHES EMERGING TALENT PROGRAMME
The Visual Media Association (VMA) has launched the Emerging Talent programme for future industry leaders, with Konica Minolta as the Platinum Partner.
The nationwide initiative is designed to engage, support, and retain the next generation of talent across the print, media, and graphic communications industry.
Konica Minolta has been confirmed as the Platinum Partner, strengthening its longstanding relationship with the VMA and demonstrating its commitment to the future of the industry.
The Emerging Talent programme is an industry-first initiative designed to create a state-by-state and trans-Tasman support network for emerging professionals who have worked in the industry for five years or less. The programme will offer:
> Skills Training & Development – Practical and leadership training tailored for career advancement.
> Mentorship & Coaching – Industry leaders guiding and supporting young professionals.
> Networking & Social Events – Building a community for future leaders to connect and grow.
> Motivational Speaker Series – Industry experts sharing insights and career inspiration.
The structured programme will ensure early-career professionals have access to the right tools, support networks, and mentorship opportunities to excel within the industry.
The VMA has been building a response to the skills and labour shortages across the industry, following two years of industry members reporting shortages across labour as one of the top three economic outlook concerns.
To address apprentice and emerging talent retention the VMA announced the launch of a network support programme for all sectors Australia-wide with support programmes in New Zealand.
Konica Minolta has been a dedicated member of the VMA for eight years, the VMA this new partnership marks a significant milestone in fostering industry talent and providing support programmes for the next industry generation.
The VMA says as the exclusive platinum partner of the Emerging Talent programme, Konica Minolta’s support will be instrumental in shaping the next wave of leaders, from apprentices to sales cadets, technicians to finance graduates, IT coders to future CEOs.
Kellie Northwood, CEO, VMA, said, “We are thrilled to introduce the Emerging Talent programme, a crucial step in ensuring a sustainable future for our industry.
“With Konica Minolta as our Platinum Partner, we are confident this initiative will provide young professionals with the skills, mentorship, and network they need to thrive. Our industry is incredibly diverse, and it is vital that we nurture, support, and engage the next generation of talent across all sectors and from all walks of life – whether regional or metropolitan, operational or sales professionals, apprentices or graduates and more – we want to build a networking environment of support, skills and training to enrich the emerging generation."
Melissa Dempsey, chief marketing officer, Konica Minolta, said, "As a leader in innovation and business solutions, Konica Minolta is proud to support this initiative. The Emerging Talent programme aligns with our values of fostering growth, empowering the next generation, and ensuring a thriving future for the industry. We look forward to working with the VMA and industry to build a strong, well-connected talent pipeline for years to come."
The programme will include print, signage, packaging, labels, mail, and distribution with a ‘Name and Strategy Programme Workshop’ scheduled for later this month to develop the name and key outcomes of the programme. The VMA is calling for applications from industry professionals interested in joining the state and territory-led programmes. Additionally, companies looking to support and contribute to the initiative are encouraged to get involved.
For more information on the Emerging Talent programme or to register interest, please contact hello@visualmediaassociation.org.au.
