Mathilda Grinling. Credit: Advertising Council of Australia
Mathilda Grinling of New South Wales has been named AWARD School’s national top student for 2025.
Grinling, who works as front of house and office manager at JOY, was selected from more than 200 students across the Asia Pacific and awarded the AWARD School Ray Black Pencil.
She also won the national Outdoor/Billboard brief, recognised for creative that was “clear, crisp and impactful” and quickly conveyed its concept.
"It feels unbelievable. I’m so grateful. I was up against so many amazing creatives. It’s such a surprise and such a blessing," Grinling said.
State finalists included Tate Crowley (Victoria), Brendan Marshall (Western Australia), Amelia Fynes-Clinton (Queensland), Hayley Riessen (South Australia) and James Willis, who led the online program.
Other national brief winners were Mina Melis and Zeeshan Ali Khan (Team Brief), Tony King (Audio), and Sunil Thomas O’Leary, who took out the Social Media brief.
“The judges were blown away by Mathilda’s creative thinking," AWARD chair and CCO at Saatchi & Saatchi, Mandie van der Merwe, told the 46th AWARD Awards event in Sydney.
"Her portfolio blended sharp strategic insight with fresh, unexpected ideas, which, as a combination, set her apart.
"It showed strong lateral thinking, thoughtful craft and a distinct creative voice, making her the clear choice for 2025’s national top student.
"She thoroughly deserves this recognition, and congratulations to all our outstanding finalists.”
Speaking about the work that earned her the accolade, Grinling reflected on one campaign in particular.
"It was my integrated campaign for Afterpay," she said.
"The line was Go All The Way With Afterpay, a B2B callout. I sent condoms out in a mailer pack. I loved that one. So, yeah… Afterpay, hit me up.”
Work from all students is available to view on the AWARD School website.
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