Bradford Launches Search for Top Young Talent

New ‘20 Under 25’ Competition Seeks Inspiring Young People

A new competition aiming to identify and celebrate young talent in Bradford has been launched by Bradford College in partnership with BBC Radio Leeds. The ‘Bradford 20 Under 25’ initiative will recognise 20 individuals aged between 16 and 25 who are making a notable impact in their respective fields.

Competition Details and Eligibility

The competition is open to young people living within the BD postcode area who are over 16 years old by 9 February 2026 and under 25 by the closing date on 10 April 2026. Nominations can be made by individuals themselves or by others who wish to highlight a deserving candidate. The competition seeks young people demonstrating exceptional talent, ambition, and a proven track record of success across any sector.

Nominations will open on 9 February 2026 and close on 10 April 2026. Entries can be submitted through the Bradford College competition webpage, where nominees can upload a one-minute video or complete an online form explaining in fewer than 250 words why they deserve recognition. Supporting evidence of achievements may also be included.

Fields and Impact

The competition welcomes nominations from a wide range of specialisms including technology, media, sport, sustainability, fundraising, and others. It aims to highlight young changemakers who are leading innovation and making a significant contribution to their communities and industries.

Judging and Prizes

A panel of judges will select the top 20 winners. Each winner will receive mentoring and support from Bradford College and BBC Radio Leeds, along with access to a network of business contacts. Winners will also be featured online to raise awareness of their work.

Statements from Organisers

Sarah Towan, Vice Principal for Recruitment and Communication at Bradford College, commented on the initiative, emphasising the importance of supporting young people as they begin their careers across various industries.

Simon Monk, Executive Editor at BBC Radio Leeds, noted the significance of launching the competition during Bradford’s year as UK City of Culture 2025, highlighting the potential for the initiative to continue in future years.

About Bradford College

• Bradford College is a major education provider in the region, enrolling over 4,000 students aged 16-18, more than 3,500 adult learners, and over 1,000 technical and degree-level students.
• The college offers apprenticeship programmes in partnership with local industries.
• It holds an Ofsted rating of Good with Outstanding features.
• In September 2023, Bradford College received a Silver rating from the Teaching Excellence Framework for its undergraduate provision.
• In 2025, the college won a national Gold AoC Beacon Award recognising best practice and innovation in further education.

For more information and to submit nominations, visit the Bradford College website when the competition opens in February 2026.