News Limited launches 2012 Cannes Young Lions competition with two new categories

News Limited, official Australian representative of the Cannes Lions 2012 International Festival of Creativity, today announced the launch of the 2012 Cannes Young Lions competition.

This year’s competition is the biggest yet with the introduction of two brand new categories, Film sponsored by Foxtel and Young Marketer sponsored by CBA and Telstra in association with the AANA (Australian Association of National Advertisers).

The addition of two new categories into the competition offers both client-side marketers and film production creatives the first opportunity to compete against their peers at Cannes.

Entries are welcomed from anyone under 28 to compete across the media, print, digital, film and marketing categories. Cannes Young Lions identifies the hottest young talent to represent Australia at the worldwide Young Lions Competition held in Cannes as part of The International Festival of Creativity in June 2012.

Says News Limited’s director of sales Tony Kendall (pictured): “This is our fourth year of association with the Cannes festival, and in that time I’ve consistently been impressed and excited at the quality of  Young Lions competitors.

“As an organization that incorporates creativity and innovation into all aspects of our business, News Limited is proud to once again help uncover the brightest young creative minds in Australia offering them the opportunity to shine on an international stage.”

Adds Matt Baxter, CEO of Universal McCann: “Young Lions really is the ultimate platform for the cream of emerging media talent to make their mark on the industry and show us what they’re capable of.”

“Every year the entries seem to really lift the bar in terms quality and strategic thinking, not to mention the careers that flourish through association with the competition.”

Entries for Australian Young Lions 2012 close on 11 April 2012, with winners revealed at a cocktail reception in Sydney on 17 May 2012.

Further competition details including entry guidelines, eligibility, details of the briefs and key dates can be viewed online at the Oz Cannes website.

The 59th International Festival of Creativity will be held 17-23 June 2012 in Cannes, France.