Generation Future Young Achievers Award

GFYAA 2025  

  

 

 

 

 

  

-- COMING SOON --

Generation Future Young Achievers Award 2026

previously known as CBAFF Young Logistics Professional Award 
 
The Generation Future Young Achiever Award recognises and encourages emerging talent in the Customs Brokers & Freight Forwarders & Logistics Industry.  
 

Building on the Success of the Generation Future Young Achiever Award

Following a successful relaunch in 2025, the Generation Future Young Achiever Award returns for its second year - bigger, stronger, and continuing to evolve alongside our industry.

Redesigned by CBAFF Council in collaboration with past winners and finalists, the award places a clear focus on inclusivity, accessibility, and recognising the diverse pathways into logistics.

Now in its second year, this award have been extended to included individuals with <8 years industry experience, the award celebrates those showing passion, commitment, and future potential - regardless of role, experience, or background.

Whether you’re new to the industry or already making your mark, this is your opportunity to be recognised as part of the next generation shaping the future of logistics.
 

Additional Recognition - Manager/Mentor Award 

A separate award (certificate) recognises managers, mentors, or sponsors who actively support young professionals in logistics, encouraging more industry leaders to invest in future talent. This will be presented to the Manager/Mentor of the Generation Future Young Achiever Award winner.
 
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Eligibility Criteria 

  • Employed in logistics (customs broking, freight forwarding, supply chain or a related field) for up to eight years.
  • Nominated or endorsed by a manager, mentor, or industry sponsor. 

Submission Deadline 

Submissions will open shortly ...

Awards & Recognition 

Winner 
  • Professional development scholarship 
  • Professional business photoshoot 
  • Complimentary attendance at the 2027 CBAFF Conference attendance including:
    • return flights to the conference destination, and
    • 3 nights accommodation at the conference destination
  • CBAFF nomination for the FIATA Young Logistics Professional Competition for the following year
  • Award Trophy 
Finalists
  • Complementary attendance at the 30th Anniversary CBAFF Conference Dinner for the announcement of the winner and award presentation, including:
    • return flights to the conference destination, and
    • one night’s accommodation at the conference desitnation
  • Certificate of Recognition
  • Social media spotlights
  • Publication of stories on CBAFF website
 

Competition Format 

Applicants may choose one of the following submission formats :
 
  • Short Essay (1,000-1,500 words) – Reflecting on personal experiences, industry challenges, or career aspirations. 
  • Video Presentation (up to 5 minutes) – A dynamic and engaging way to share their story. 
  • Creative Submission – Infographic, blog-style article, or digital portfolio. 
Each submission must be accompanied by:
 
  • A reference letter from their manager, mentor, or sponsor. 
  • A short response to the following questions from CBAFF (answered by their mentor/sponsor).
    • Why did you nominate [Nominee’s Name] for the Generation Future Young Achievers Award?
    • How has [Nominee’s Name] demonstrated passion, personal growth, and progression in their role or studies?
    • In what ways has [Nominee’s Name] engaged with the industry, peers, or educational opportunities to further their development?
    • How has your mentorship/sponsorship supported [Nominee’s Name]’s journey and contributed to their success?
    • Why do you believe it is important to support and invest in young talent in the logistics industry?
 
 
 

Encouraged Theme 

Applicants are encouraged to share your personal journey of growth and development within the logistics sector. This may include overcoming obstacles in advancing your career, building new skills, adapting to industry shifts, or tackling complex challenges. Reflect on the experiences that have shaped your resilience, problem-solving abilities, and professional growth that will help illustrate your journey and impact.
 
For those re-applying, we encourage you to build on your previous submission by demonstrating how your journey has progressed. Consider how your perspective has evolved, the impact you are now having, and how your ongoing development positions you for the future of logistics. Strong re-applications will show clear and tangible progression and should aim to demonstrate not only growth, but also the momentum and direction of your career. You could also include your vision for your own future, as well as that of the industry and we move forward.
 

Judging Criteria 

  • Passion for the Industry (20%) – Enthusiasm and commitment to logistics. 
  • Personal Growth & Learning (30%) – Career progression, adaptability, and development. 
  • Presentation & Communication (30%) – Clarity, engagement, and effectiveness of message. 
  • Interview Performance (20%) – Ability to articulate experiences and aspirations. 


Interview & Recognition Process 

  • Interviews will be held late July, approximately six weeks before the conference. 
  • The interview will focus on the person behind the application. 
  • Finalists will be announced before the conference and featured on CBAFF’s website and social media. 
  • A President/CEO interview and social media spotlight will highlight finalist success stories. 
  • Finalists will also receive networking and mentorship opportunities with CBAFF members. 
  • The YLPA FIATA Award will require the entry to meet the official FIATA entry requirements in order to be considered. This ensures alignment with FIATA's standards and guidelines for award eligibility. 
 

Past Winners

Generation Future Young Achievers Award

2025 - Mia Thomas, Hobbs Global Logistics Solutions

 

Young Logistics Professional Award

2024 - Carina Voigt, Expeditors

2023 - Gavin Powell, Go Logistics

2022 - Riska Ariestadewi, Champion Freight

2021 - Jessica Dunye, Oceanbridge

2020 - Award not run

2019 - Natarlia Harold, Jacana Customs & Freight

2018 - Award not run

2017 - Phil Burgess, Bernard International

2016 - Kayla McKelvie, Oceanbridge Shipping

2015 - Bridget Tapper, Geodis Wilson

2014 - Renee Conroy, CEVA Logistics (NZ) Limited

2013 - Olivia Kinnane, Oceanbridge Shipping

2012 - Award not run

2011 - No Winner

2010 - Matthew Archer, Oceanbridge Shipping

2009 - Lisa Jensen, UTi New Zealand Limited

2008 - Michael Wilson, Agility Logistics Limited

2007 - Olivia Kinnane, Oceanbridge Shipping

2006 - Nick Philp, Cunningham Gill Limited

2005 - Matthew Naylor, Schenker (NZ) Ltd

2004 - Hadley Page, UTi New Zealand Limited

2003 - No Winner

2002 - Simone Jarman, ECU Line New Zealand

2001 - Wade Brown

Congratulations - 2025

 

Thank you to our generous Sponsors:  

  • Star Personnel
  • Air New Zealand Cargo
  • WiseTech Academy

 

pictured: left to right:
Sherelle Kennely, CBAFF CEO
Rachel Madden, CBAFF President
Mia Thomas, Hobbs Global Logistics Solutions
 
pictured: left to right:
Amelia Speirs, Dolphin Shipping (Finalist)
Mia Thomas, Hobbs Global Logistics Solutions (Winner)
Dominique von Hagen, Vanguard Logistics (Finalist)
  

Past Winners

Generation Future Mentor/Manager Award

2025 - Darren Brown, Hobbs Global Logistics Solutions
 
  
 
 
 
pictured: 
Mia Thomas with Darren Brown, winner of the Mentor/Manager Award
(Hobbs Global Logistics Solutions)