Advertising teams win international awards

Mohawk College 3rd year advertising students Catherine Looy and Jan Benavente have won one of the most prestigious student advertising competitions in the world, earning a Gold Pencil award in the Young Ones Competition.

Their The Loyal Veterans campaign submission (The Loyal Veterans submission) was among 10 in the world – and the only in Canada – to receive Gold recognition. A second Mohawk College submission received an award of Merit. (Call for Blood campaign, by Therese Dunn and Olivia Wrobel) 

In all, Mohawk had a school record 10 submissions on the short list at the One Show's Young Ones contest. Previously, the college had received as many as four finalist honours in one year.

(A full list of the 2022 Young Ones competition)

Following their international win, Catherine and Jan answered a few questions about their experience. Find their responses below.

What was the biggest challenge that you faced while preparing your video/campaign?

The biggest challenge we faced was creating an uplifting story for a game about war. A technical hurdle we had was finalizing the script and video. Since it was the end of the semester we wanted to have a well-done video, but we had little time. Finding certain clips was challenging, as well as creating the perfect narrative.

How did you feel when you learned that you were finalists for the contest?

We were both excited. Our hard work has been noticed and we couldn't believe it when we saw our names as finalists.

And now as Gold Pencil winners, how do you feel about your accomplishment?

Gold is beyond what we thought would happen. Competing against 26 countries means a wide number of submissions were seen, and the fact that we have won gold makes us feel seen and special. We also feel special as we are the first Mohawk Ad students to receive a Gold Pencil.

And, what is your next move - have you secured employment? Will you be joining us at the convocation ceremonies in June? What do you have in store now?

Jan and Catherine will be attending the ceremonies in June. We are both looking for internships. Jan heading towards Art Direction, and Catherine heading towards Art Direction or Marketing.