The PKN Women in Packaging Awards program enters its second year in 2025 and continues to enjoy strong industry support.
As the leading source of news and information in the Australasian packaging industry, PKN is dedicated to recognising and celebrating the exceptional achievements of women in our sector. The PKN Women in Packaging program aims to foster diversity, promote innovation, and inspire future leaders in the Australasian packaging industry.
Traditionally, the packaging industry has been male dominated, with women often underrepresented in key leadership roles and decision-making positions. This lack of diversity has hindered innovation and limited the industry’s ability to address critical sustainability challenges effectively. It’s time to change this narrative and empower women in packaging to take centre stage. It starts with recognising high achievers.
The PKN Women in Packaging Awards will be presented at a luncheon in Sydney in June 2025, which will include a keynote speaker and panel discussion as part of the program.
Innovation Champion
Recognising a woman who has made a significant impact on the Australian packaging industry through bringing innovative solutions to market. This could include the development of novel packaging materials, designs, or technologies that have improved functionality, sustainability, or consumer experience.
Sustainability Leader
Honouring a woman who has demonstrated outstanding commitment to sustainability in the Australian packaging industry. This award recognises initiatives such as reducing packaging waste, promoting recyclability, advocating for eco-friendly materials, or implementing circular packaging practices.
Packaging Technology Leader
Recognising a woman who has demonstrated exceptional expertise and contributions as a packaging technologist in the Australian context. This award celebrates achievements in developing, driving and implementing advanced packaging technologies, processes, and solutions that have had a significant impact on the Australian packaging industry.
Design and Branding Excellence
Acknowledging a woman whose creative prowess has contributed to reshaping packaging design and branding in the Australian context. This category recognises excellence in creating visually appealing, impactful packaging that resonates with consumers and boosts brand identity.
Manufacturing Leader
Recognising a woman who has demonstrated outstanding leadership and excellence in an Australian packaging manufacturing operation. This award honours achievements such as optimising production processes, improving quality control, enhancing efficiency, increasing sustainability and fostering a culture of innovation and safety within the manufacturing environment.
STEM Explorer
Recognising a woman who has demonstrated outstanding expertise and leadership in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) within the Australian packaging industry. This award celebrates individuals who have applied STEM knowledge to drive innovation, improve packaging technologies, enhance sustainability, or solve industry challenges.
Communications & Marketing Excellence
Recognising a woman who has demonstrated exceptional skills and achievements in marketing and communications within the Australian packaging industry. This award acknowledges outstanding efforts in promoting packaging products, brands, and sustainability initiatives, as well as effective communication strategies that have made a significant impact on industry.