Call for Nominations: 19th Annual PAVE Global Rising Star Award

Recognizing young professionals making an impact in consumer environments.

PAVE Global, in partnership with OPTO International, is proud to announce that nominations are now open for the 19th Annual PAVE Global Rising Star Award.

Presented annually at the PAVE Gala, the Rising Star Award celebrates young professionals who are helping move the consumer environments industry forward through innovation, leadership, and excellence in design and execution.

“We’re proud to support the PAVE Global Rising Star Award because it celebrates exactly what our industry needs: fresh thinking, creative energy, and emerging leaders who are ready to shape the future of consumer environments. At OPTO, we believe great retail experiences come from a mix of imagination, collaboration, and practical innovation, and it’s exciting to help recognize young professionals who are already bringing those qualities to the industry,” said Jamie Poulos, Chief Growth Officer, OPTO International.

Nominees must be engaged in the design or supply of consumer environments and must be 40 years of age or younger as of December 2026. There is no fee to submit a nomination.

Retailers, brands, design firms, industry suppliers, colleagues, mentors, and peers are encouraged to nominate individuals whose work and leadership deserve to be recognized. Eligible young professionals may also self-nominate.

Each nomination should include three to five supporting materials that show why the nominee should be recognized. All nominations will be reviewed virtually through Submittable by a panel of industry professionals.

Finalists will be recognized on Thursday, December 10, 2026, during the PAVE Gala in New York City, where the 2026 PAVE Rising Star winner will be announced. Finalists will receive a travel stipend of up to $1,000 to attend the Gala.

Nominations are open through Monday, October 26, 2026, before 11:59 pm Eastern/8:59 pm Pacific.

For full eligibility requirements, nomination details, and access to the nomination form, visit www.paveglobal.org/risingstar.

Questions may be directed to info@paveglobal.org.

---

About PAVE Global

Founded in 1992, PAVE Global is a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation dedicated to connecting design students, educators, and industry professionals worldwide. Through financial assistance, mentorship, and real-world learning experiences, PAVE Global helps students build successful careers designing and creating consumer environments. Learn more at www.paveglobal.org.

About OPTO International

OPTO International is a designer and manufacturer of modular and custom retail display solutions that help brands and retailers create distinctive, flexible, and engaging consumer environments. With in-house design, engineering, and manufacturing expertise, OPTO’s collaborative approach combines creativity, practical innovation, and production expertise to bring brand experiences to life. Learn more at www.optosystem.com.