A Look to the Future As preparations are underway for year 5 of the mentorship programme, the Silhouette Awards highlight the benefits that can come from taking part. SILHOUETTE AWARDS
The Silhouette Awards is a global mentorship programme dedicated to identifying, celebrating, and supporting the next generation of talent in the lighting design industry. Launched in 2021 through a collaboration between Archifos and Parrot PR and Marketing, the initiative has already transformed the careers of more than 80 emerging designers worldwide. With a growing international following, the Silhouette Awards continues to champion rising stars who bring vision, creativity, and leadership to the future of lighting. Each year, the programme shines a spotlight on 20 outstanding mentees, selected through a competitive global application process. Applicants are invited to submit a three-minute video sharing their story, accomplishments, and aspirations – a format that ensures the process is personal, inclusive, and accessible, allowing their passion to be communicated directly to the judging panel: the mentors. At its core, the Silhouette Awards are about more than individual success. They nurture and provide opportunities for a vibrant global community of mentors, mentees, and supporters, encouraging collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and long-term growth within the industry. The relationships formed through the programme often extend far beyond the mentorship period, developing into ongoing connections that shape careers and strengthen the lighting design community. 118 / 119
For mentors, the programme offers both personal and professional rewards. It’s a meaningful opportunity to give back to the industry, support emerging talent, and help shape the next generation of lighting designers. Mentors gain access to a diverse pool of global applicants, are recognised as thought leaders within a respected initiative, and often build long-term relationships that surpass the programme itself. Exposure to different cultures, fresh ideas and perspectives also brings inspiration and personal growth, while being part of an international network of peers further enhances their role as advocates for innovation and progress in lighting design. Vinod Pillai, Silhouette Awards mentor from Year 4 shared one of his key takeaways from the programme: “Everyone has a unique take on lighting – nothing is more unique than a blend of ideas that stems from across generations and perhaps cultures.” For mentees, the experience can be careerdefining. Each mentee receives one-to-one mentorship from an experienced leader in the field, gaining personalised guidance, insight, and support tailored to their goals. The programme boosts visibility, opens professional doors, and connects them to a thriving, supportive international community. It provides a platform to showcase their talent and ambitions while building their confidence and connections to grow in the industry.