| Project Management Apprentice of the Year

This category aims to recognise excellence in a Higher or Degree Apprentice undertaking a Project Management standard within the UK.

The category is open to those currently on an apprenticeship programme as well as those who have completed their programme in 2023. Entrants can either self-nominate or be nominated by their employer but may only enter this category once. Entrants can be members or non-members of APM.

Entries must take the form of a 1,000-word statement addressing the criteria below and may include up to two pieces of supporting evidence which must only include:

• images and/or graphics (no text, just short captions)
• a link to a video no more than 2 minutes in length

Congratulations to our winner...

Judges comments
Judges felt that Missy’s highly commendable application demonstrated significant commitment to her apprenticeship, outstanding contributions to her organisation and the wider community, and a clear and ambitious career trajectory. Her dedication to promoting STEM careers, exceeding expectations in her academic and professional endeavours, and leadership in charity initiatives all contributed to her standing as an exemplary candidate.

Missy is a an excellent ambassador for project management with a very good focus on her career development.

Missy is an exceptional project professional who is currently in the third year of her project management degree apprenticeship. To date, Missy has embraced all development opportunities, working tirelessly to promote STEM careers, leading Sellafield’s apprentice council charity fundraising as well as supporting the APM with changes to the PMQ examination. Missy consistently goes above and beyond; whether it is her academic studies or extra-curricular activities, she works hard and consistently achieves results. Within Sellafield Ltd, she is recognised as a committed professional who can always be relied upon.

Judges comments
Judges also wanted to acknowledge a special mention to Hannah Thurogood. Hannah’s strong application reflected her commitment, contribution, and career development potential. Hannah has clearly demonstrated a comprehensive skill set, engagement with her professional development, and a commitment to the company and her peers.

Hannah is truly deserving to be the apprentice of the year, the business is so proud of what Hannah has achieved, her commitment to mentor apprentices and her ambassador presence to promote the company and programme is second to none.

Hannah's consistent work ethic and professionalism to go over and above to broaden her own skills set and influence the wider ‘early careers’ team to achieve first class results is to be commended.

Agnes Balogun, a results-driven Project Manager, excels in diverse project management using both traditional and Agile methods, while consistently exceeding expectations.

Notably, she achieved a commendable 15% ROI on the OrangeMoney project in Guinea within six months of the project going operational. Her strong leadership skills are evident in staff training, resulting in boosting staff productivity by 20%. Agnes’s commitment to continuous learning and professional development is evident through her pursuit of an MSc in Project Management and diverse certifications. This has further positioned her as a valuable asset and a strong contender for Project Management Apprentice of the Year.

Mia, is an apprentice at Arup since 2022, has actively participated in diverse projects covering real estate, energy, and aviation.

Currently in her second year, Mia's role involves creating funding documentation and contributing to business cases. Her work with the client has received positive feedback, and she has progressed to overseeing work and coaching members. She has gained expertise in governance, large funding acquisition, and stakeholder engagement. Mia's strategic thinking and leadership have been praised, leading to successful project outcomes.

Outside of work she is part of the Connect Women, promoting diversity, and received an award for handling tough challenges.

Anshul Narain, Associate Project Manager Level 4 Apprentice with QA Business Analyst, Amazon Transportation Services (ATS). QA would like to nominate Anshul for the Project Management Apprentice of the Year for his dedication, exceptional progress and outstanding contribution throughout programme.

Working at Amazon, Anshul has been able to manage projects to successful outcomes via outstanding risk management and stakeholder communications. Alongside his professional development, he has also sought to promote both apprenticeships and the project professions to friends and colleagues, all whilst being the first in his cohort to progress to End Point Assessment.

Category criteria and weighting

Commitment  30%

• Demonstrates a commitment to personal development
• Demonstrates a commitment to dealing successfully with work challenges
• Demonstrates a commitment to the profession through external advocacy/ambassadorial work
• Demonstrates examples of personal qualities (communication, leadership) that have supported success at work

Contribution  50%

• Demonstrates examples of going above and beyond what is required
• Demonstrates examples of skills applied and new skills gained on the programme
• Demonstrates examples of contributing towards team objectives

Career  20%

• Demonstrates clarity on the skills the applicant needs for future success
• Demonstrates potential for future career development in the Project profession