Stray Ferret Business Awards 2025: meet the finalists for Rising Star Under 30

The countdown is now on for the Stray Ferret Business Awards 2025, sponsored by Prosperis, and we're taking the opportunity to celebrate the fantastic finalists, shortlisted across each of the 10 categories.

Tickets are now available to buy for the glittering black tie event, which will take place at The Pavilions in Harrogate on Thursday, March 13, 2025.

Let's meet and find out more about the finalists for the Rising Star Under 30 Award, sponsored by Thompsons Chartered Accountants.

Thomas Lupton, Econ Engineering

At 27 years old, Thomas Lupton has followed in his relatives' footsteps and joined the family business, working his way up to the role of quality and compliance director in 2024.

 Determined to learn the ropes across every department, he immersed himself in the operations of the business and gained hands-on experience on the factory floor, 'demonstrating exceptional leadership potential and a willingness to take on new responsibilities'.

Thomas was instrumental in the launch of the first fully electric E-QCB model, and since taking on the mantle of director, he has led various initiatives to drive continuous improvement across the company.

Atlanta Wilkinson-Moore, EnviroVent

An invaluable team member at EnviroVent, the nomination for Atlanta cites her 'exceptional leadership, initiative, and dedication to the success of the company'.

Since joining the business 18 months ago she has taken on any challenge with a positive attitude, quickly working her way up to managing seven colleagues - a role in which she has flourished, leading her team with motivation.

Her contributions impacted the growth of the business through sales revenue, helping to exceed annual targets ahead of time - all of this, and Atlanta is still only 24 years old.

Aoife Robinson, Next Chapter

Next Chapter entered Aoife the award because the team believe that she 'epitomises the qualities of a rising star: determination, growth, and the ability to deliver meaningful impact'.

 Her journey from digital marketing apprentice to full-time digital marketing executive demonstates her willingness to adapt and learn - she went from a relative novice to confidently planning, pitching and presenting in front of clients, leading marketing campaigns. 

According to Next Chapter, 'the thought of how much further Aoife can grow is both inspiring and exciting'.

Emily Gaunt, Bluebell Arkendale

Emily's passion and commitment for the hospitality sector has helped her to rise through the ranks at the Grantham Arms and associated venues - she first joined aged 20 in 2018 as a supervisor, and helped to expand operations from one venue to four.

Now at Bluebell Arkendale, Emily has navigated the challenges of managing a busy pub during the festive period by 'seamlessly juggles multiple roles and tasks' with 'joy and dedication'. 

The nomination cited her dedication to creating a supportive and positive environment, uniting new and existing teams in order to ensure all staff work cohesively while delivering exceptional service to customers.

Dominic Forshaw, Pavilions/YEC

Dominic joined the events team at The Pavilions in June 2023 straight from Leeds University and quickly established himself as an integral part of the team.

At only 23 years old, he's already taken on responsbilities befitting someone much older as deputy events manager, demonstrating 'attention to detail and the ability to manage high-pressure situations...with professionalism and efficiency'.

A prime example of this would be Dominic's role at the Great Yorkshire Show,looking after many of the corporate hospitality guests and managing the dining area for the YAS council members to excellent feedback.

Lauren Wood, Yorkshire Wellbeing Collective

 As the founder of the Yorkshire Wellbeing Collective (YWC), Lauren is a trailblazer in the field, launching the region's first wellbeing directory—a platform connecting individuals to professionals offering mental health support, physical wellness, and holistic therapies.

Through YWC, Lauren has built a thriving community of over 200 small businesses within 12 months, offering networking events, business workshops, and marketing opportunities to help them grow.

According to the submission, 'through her innovative leadership, Lauren has made wellbeing services more accessible while empowering independent practitioners to thrive'.

Don't miss out

Tickets are now available for the awards evening, which takes place on Thursday, March 13, 2025.

Book yours here and join the Stray Ferret and other local businesses for a night filled with recognition, networking, and fun.