Future leaders and innovators recognised at awards

Midland Lead and Derby College Group have enjoyed success at awards organised by East Midlands Chamber which recognise the leaders and innovators of the future.

At the recent 2026 Generation Next Conference and Awards, which is for professionals aged 18 to 40, Kyle Hazeldine, of Midland Lead, won the flagship Future Leader Award, while Isabelle Torrance scooped the Excellence in Customer Service Award.

Delivered by East Midlands Chamber’s Generation Next network for young professionals, in partnership with headline partner the University of Derby, the conference and ceremony took place at Casa Hotel in Chesterfield.

It featured a keynote speech by Roots and Futures founder and co-founder of Citrey CIC Lauren Thompson, who spoke of the importance of young professionals having a seat at the table in community conversations.

Speaking about his win, Kyle said: “I’ve been with Midland Lead for 11 years now and I started in telesales, no experience and then I’ve just worked my way through the business.

“I’ve taken the opportunities that the business has provided me with and just grabbed every opportunity that I could get.

“I’m very privileged that I work for a company that have really invested in me, my personal development and given me the opportunity so I’m very fortunate and thankful to them.”