23/07/2026

Alisa Ahmed has been named as the winner of the Australian publishing industry’s 2026 Rising Star Award, with the judges recognising her work in 'operational transformation' and 'industry leadership.'

The Rising Star Award celebrates emerging talent in the Australian publishing industry, and is open to Australian publishing professionals who have been part of the industry for no more than 10 years.

Alisa was named the 2026 Rising Star for the ‘initiative’ and ‘advocacy’ she brings to the Ultimo Press team, where she has a strong background in championing underrepresented voices and is highly regarded for her commitment to inclusivity in the Australian publishing industry.

The judges were particularly impressed by Alisa’s role in “spearheading the application of the [black&write!] First Nations Editorial and Writing program” and active involvement in professional development leadership, including the Residential Editorial Program (REP) committee.

They recognised her broader accomplishments, saying:

‘[Alisa] is an excellent candidate with tangible outcomes for company and self.'

They also acknowledged Alisa’s: ‘involvement in the (Not) Adelaide Writers’ Week program that popped up post the cancellation of the festival this year.’

The judges commended the other five shortlisted candidates as ‘a brilliant representation of the emerging talent in the Australian publishing industry.’

This year’s award was judged by a panel of experts from the publishing industry comprising: Alex Allan (Fremantle Press), Jane Curry (Simon & Schuster Australia), Nicola Evans (Copyright Agency) and Karen Hildebrandt (Taylor & Francis), with Alisa accepting the award at the BookUp conference in Melbourne on 22 July.

Alisa was also awarded a Copyright Agency Fellowship specifically for a First Nations editorial fellowship and mentorship with Magabala Books.

To learn more about Alisa’s career, read her interview with Books+Publishing.

Congratulations to Alisa and all the nominated and shortlisted candidates this year. Find more information about the Rising Star award here.