Nominations for Effie judges now open and the introduction of First Five Rungs Shadow Judging programme

AUCKLAND, Wednesday: The Aotearoa Effie Awards (in association with TVNZ, in collaboration with the Comms Council First Five Rungs) have announced the launch of an “exciting new initiative”, the First Five Rungs’ Shadow Judging Programme.

This programme offers emerging talent and industry enthusiasts a unique opportunity to gain invaluable experience and insights into the judging process of the Effies.

Comms Council communications manager Axl Arthur said: “The Effie Awards are renowned for recognising and celebrating outstanding marketing effectiveness in New Zealand.

“With the introduction of the FFR Shadow Judging Programme, participants will have the exclusive chance to observe and learn from seasoned judges, understand the essential elements that contribute to a compelling paper, and explore the intricacies of assessing marketing effectiveness.

“The FFR Shadow Judging Programme aims to foster professional growth by equipping participants with practical knowledge that can be applied to their future endeavours.

“By engaging with experienced judges and observing the judging process, aspiring marketers and industry enthusiasts will gain unparalleled insights into the inner workings of the Effie Awards and the standards of excellence they represent.

“The process holds a lot of mystique, and we feel privileged to be able to give emerging talent this opportunity to understand the inner workings of what it takes to be a judge.”

Aroha Gell, chair of the First Five Rungs in the Capital, said: “First Five Rungs exists to foster the next generation of advertisers. Shadowing expert judges, and hearing their whakaaro on what award-winning work looks like will be the most intensely inspiring opportunity.”

Zoë MacDonald-Mair, chair of the First Five Rungs in Auckland, said: “The awards process holds a lot of mystique, and we feel privileged to be able to give emerging talent this opportunity to understand the inner workings of what it takes to be a judge.

“We can’t wait to see where this programme goes, it offers a lot of potential for industry newcomers.”

The Comms Council believes that the FFR Shadow Judging Programme will offer unparalleled growth prospects for future judges, equipping them with invaluable knowledge and first-hand experience in assessing marketing effectiveness.

Axl Arthur: “In parallel to the search for FFR Shadow Judge nominees, nominations for judges across all rounds of Effie Aotearoa are now open, and we are actively seeking professionals with expertise in marketing and a passion for recognising excellence to apply and contribute to this prestigious event.

“Becoming an Effie judge is an exceptional opportunity to play a significant role in shaping the industry and celebrating outstanding marketing campaigns.”

• To apply, nominate or learn more about the Effie Awards and the FFR Shadow Judging Programme, visit commscouncil.nz/effie