D&AD Unveil Hand Sharpened D&AD Pencil, Recognising Self Taught Talent

The ultimate symbol of creative excellence, the D&AD Pencil, has just gained a new version. Conceived and crafted by Grey Brazil to recognise companies that support D&AD Shift — the global program that opens the doors of the industry to self-taught talents — the D&AD Shift Pencil for Sponsors is a handcrafted, hand-sharpened award filled with meaning.

With uneven tips and asymmetrical edges, the new Pencil reflects the non-linear path of creatives who built their careers on their own, outside the traditional routes of the industry. More than a trophy, it is a visual manifesto: supporting these talents means investing in new perspectives, stories, and ideas that only they can bring to life.

In São Paulo's edition, Uber, Natura, and Surf (a Unilever brand) were highlighted for their support. Each of these brands presented a real briefing to the students, who developed creative solutions throughout the program. The results of this work were celebrated at the graduation of the 19 students, when sponsors officially received the exclusive Pencil as a symbol of their contribution to transforming the industry.

The event also welcomed Kwame Taylor-Hayford, global president of D&AD – a UK-based non-profit institution recognised worldwide for driving excellence in design and advertising.