On Wednesday 29 April 2026, 100 aspiring leaders from across the region took part in the East Midlands Challenge, testing and developing their skills in strategy, prioritisation, and teamwork!
All 17 participating teams showed great enthusiasm and commitment throughout the day, and all should be proud of their achievements!
Throughout the day, the teams are scored on three areas: Behaviours, Leadership, and Communication, and special nominations can be made by assessors for a ‘shining star’!
And the winners are…
Best Team
Winner – Rushcliffe Borough Council
Highly Commended:
- Blaby District Council
- Harborough District Council
- North Kesteven District Council
- Rutland County Council – Team 2
Behaviours
Winner – Blaby District Council
Highly Commended:
- Erewash District Council
- Rushcliffe Borough Council
Leadership
Winner – Rushcliffe Borough Council
Highly Commended:
- Harborough District Council
- Rutland County Council (Team 2)
Communications
Winner – Rutland County Council (Team 2)
Highly Commended:
- Derby City Council
- Rushcliffe Borough Council
Shining Star
Winner – Jemma Handley – South Derbyshire District Council
Highly Commended:
- Ayeisha Kirkham – South Kesteven
- Lisa Mole – Ashfield
- Jenna Norton – Newark and Sherwood
- Sebastian Soar – Rushcliffe
Special mentions:
Best Presentation: North Kesteven
Media Interactions: Harborough District Council
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