First Chapter Award: In Collaboration with
The Society of Young Publishers (SYP)
The SYP and The Publishing Post are collaborating on a new and unique accolade, the First Chapter Award. Aimed at those who often go unrecognised in traditional trade awards, for example, publishing hopefuls, volunteers, booksellers, librarians and freelancers. It seeks to celebrate individuals who have demonstrated passion, teamwork and dedication to the industry, as well as their own professional goals.
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By recognising these individuals, the First Chapter Award not only celebrates their current achievements but also inspires them to continue their passionate work in the publishing industry. It reinforces the idea that every contribution, no matter how small it may seem, is essential to the vibrant and dynamic world of books and reading.
The Award
Applications will be opening soon, and will close 18 August. It is a simple application form and you can nominate yourself or others.
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This is a perfect opportunity to spotlight stars within your professional and volunteer team, and draw attention to the hard work being carried out by early-career professionals within the book community.
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Shortlisted candidates will be announced at the end of the summer with winners announced at the SYP Oxford conference later in the year.
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Who is Eligible?
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Open to individuals across the UK and Ireland operating within the book and publishing community
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For those in the first 5 years in the industry or haven’t yet began a career in the industry
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Nominate yourselves, or an inspirational colleague or teammate
This award is open to a broad range of individuals at the very beginning of their careers, including:
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Hopefuls: Individuals aspiring to break into the publishing industry.
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Booksellers: Those whose passion and knowledge of books keeps things spinning.
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Early Publishing and Book-Related Industry Professionals: Those who have recently started their careers and are adding notable value to their team.
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Volunteers: Individuals who donate their time and effort to literary festivals, book events, organisations, and reading charities.
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Influencers: Those who are sharing insight and a love for the industry and reading in their spare time.
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Librarians: Professionals dedicated to fostering a love for books and reading within communities.
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Freelancers: Those working as freelancers within the book industry to support teams or elevate book-related activities.
What do winners recieve?
A diverse judging panel comprising professionals from across the publishing and book industry will carefully evaluate the nominations. The winners will receive:
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A free year-long SYP membership
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Attend an awards ceremony at the SYP London Conference and take part in a panel
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The winners will be supported across SYP and Publishing Post socials and website.
Please contact sypchair@thesyp.org.uk if you have any enquiries about the First Chapter Awards.
October Jones
Children’s Librarian GLL Wandsworth (Roehampton Library)
CILIP YLG SE Chairperson/ The DBA 2024 Shortlisting Judge/ SPARK! Book Award 2025 Judge/ BBC 500 Words Judge
October Jones is a passionate and dedicated children’s librarian with a deep commitment to their literary community. Starting as a library assistant in 2023, they were promoted to Children’s Librarian by 2024. October transformed Downham Library with The Bigger Picture initiative, introducing the community to comics and graphic novels. Known for championing spooky books, October also organises borough-wide programs benefiting children, young people, and families, and regularly contributes to literary festivals and events.
Eiman Munro
Volunteer
Eiman Munro is a community leader passionate about preserving heritage and amplifying Iraqi voices. She co-founded Hidden Histories CIC and secured over £70,000 in funding for Iraqi writers in Brent. Eiman supports aspiring writers through workshops and publishing projects, ensuring their stories are celebrated for future generations. She also volunteers with her local library to deliver books to those with access needs.
Ause Abdelhaq
Editor, Pan Macmillan
Ause Abdelhaq is a passionate book editor amplifying underrepresented voices. He has acquired impactful works, including Chris Smalls’ memoir, The Eyes of Gaza, and The Glass Cliff. Ause advocates for workplace inclusion, serving on Pan Macmillan’s RISE Network board, mentoring young professionals, and championing equal opportunities and fair wages.
Sorina Marinescu
Owner of Blue Sheep Books
Sorina Marinescu is the founder of Blue Sheep Books in Wednesbury, where she turned her passion for reading into a thriving community hub. After leaving her stable job during the pandemic, she started selling books online and opened her brick-and-mortar store to support those in a deprived area in the West Midlands. As a proud LGBTIA+ advocate, Sorina creates a safe space for underrepresented voices and provides opportunities for local youth through work experience and affordable books for schools, believing that access to literature is essential for all children.
Society of Young Publishers (SYP)
Society of Young Publishers: The SYP is a membership organisation whose aim is to provide a supportive network and be a trusted source of information for anyone, of any age, hoping to get into or ahead in publishing or a related trade.The SYP is made up of seven regional committees (Ireland, London, North, Oxford, Scotland, South West and Wales) and a UK committee responsible for overseeing the overall strategy of the group and producing the InPrint magazine. These teams are made up of dedicated volunteers who give up their spare time to help our members.