Northamptonshire’s next generation of hospitality talent is set to take centre stage with the launch of a brand new category in the Weetabix Northamptonshire Food & Drink Awards 2026/27.
Sponsored by West Northamptonshire Council, the new Young Rising Star of Food & Drink Award has been created to recognise ambitious young people already making an impact across the county’s thriving food, drink and hospitality sector.
Open to employees aged 16 to 25 who live or work in Northamptonshire, the category will celebrate those bringing energy, creativity and commitment to their roles — whether front of house, in the kitchen, behind the bar or within food and drink production.
Importantly, entrants must be nominated by their employer, with the award designed to shine a spotlight on talented team members rather than business owners. Organisers expect nominations from apprentices, undergraduates, first-job employees and young professionals already showing exceptional promise early in their careers.
Awards Director Rachel Mallows said the new category reflects the huge contribution young people make to the industry across the county.
“Northamptonshire’s food and drink sector is full of talented young people who bring energy, ideas and dedication to their workplaces every day, often behind the scenes,” she said.
“We already recognise college students and young chefs through other Awards categories, but this new award has been created to shine a spotlight on those working front of house, in hospitality kitchens and within food and drink production who are showing real promise early in their careers.
“This category is about celebrating the young people who are already making a difference in their workplaces and giving them the encouragement and recognition they deserve.”
Leader of West Northamptonshire Council, Mark Arnull, added: “We’re proud to sponsor the Young Rising Star of Food & Drink category, which shines a spotlight on the next generation of talent shaping Northamptonshire’s food and drink sector.
“Supporting young people entering the industry is vital for sustaining skills and growth locally. These awards are a fantastic way to celebrate the passion, creativity and excellence that make our county stand out.”
Entries will be judged through employer supporting statements, recorded interviews and additional information gathered during the judging process, with judges looking for individuals showing outstanding attitude, dedication and genuine career ambition within the sector.
Finalists will then meet an external judging panel before Gold, Silver and Bronze winners are revealed at the Awards celebration later this year at Royal & Derngate. Each finalist will receive a complimentary ticket to the ceremony, while Gold winners will also benefit from post-awards mentoring opportunities.
Entries for the Young Rising Star of Food & Drink category close on 30 June. Meanwhile, entries for several established categories — including Gastro Pub of the Year, Community Café of the Year, Restaurant of the Year and World Cuisine Restaurant of the Year — close earlier on 19 June.
For more information on all award categories, visit The Weetabix Northamptonshire Food & Drink Awards.