On Thursday 13th August, at a sparkling cocktail event at the Auckland Art Gallery, 16 of New Zealand’s most successful entrepreneurs were announced as finalists in the New Zealand’s Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year awards.

These finalists represent a diverse range of industries across New Zealand, from baby hammocks to ice cream manufacturers.

Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards Director Jon Hooper said this year's finalists are people who have held fast to their dreams despite challenging economic times.

“To become a finalist in these Awards, entrepreneurs must display leadership, creativity, business acumen, perseverance, and an unflinching determination to succeed. This year’s finalists have shown they have all of that and more. The Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards recognises and celebrates these people, their substantial achievements, and their contribution to our society and to our economy.”

Check out more information on Cameron and the other finalists here.

After the huge success of our Sydney and Wellington Actors 101 event, StarNow are hosting a Melbourne event.

4 wonderful guest speakers, prizes up for grabs and the chance to network with filmmakers and actors.

For full information on the event and the guest speakers check out the information page here.

As finalists in 2 categories we were very excited to win both! Here's what CEO of StarNow, Cameron Mehlhopt had to say about the win means to us.

"It’s amazing to be recognised for our global and business application as StarNow is based entirely in New Zealand and is staffed by creative Wellingtonians. As the number one casting website in the UK and Australia as well as here at home in NZ, these awards further cement our belief that it is entirely possible to have a big impact internationally through effective use of the Internet. This win is a tribute to the StarNow team who have worked extremely hard to build a small start up into a business with over 1.5 million members worldwide. We look forward to sharing this win with our talented members who have helped shape StarNow and make it the success it is today."

He's talking about you guys!

For more information on the awards you can check out the webcast here.

"My reason for choosing Rachel, is she's a young mum who's been putting all her time and effort into her children over the past years and hadn't had much time for herself. I believe with a few tips on how to up-date her clothes and make-up Rachel would look fabulous, if she was intending to return to the workforce sometime soon, the added confidence boost would help her immensely in her job search. Rachel says she's also an actress, she believes the added confidence will also greatly improve her chances at winning auditions" Michelle Quin.

There are still a few spots left on the course so if you would like to attend please call Michelle on 0418 395 329

The Made in Melbourne Film Festival is an exclusive showcase for Melbourne filmmakers and short films that are 'Made in Melbourne'. The festival celebrates the desire, drive, and diversity of our local film community by screening the very best short films Melbourne has to offer. Entries are now open. Entry is FREE.

Enter your film here.