#PrintHERStoryMonth 2025: Meet Lucy Swanston; Nutshell Creative, Topic Heroes

by | #PrintHerStoryMonth, Print HerStory Month, Women in Leadership, Women's Print Herstory Month

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Lucy Swanston Managing Director of Nutshell Creative and Topic Heroes, Chair of The Strategic Mailing Partnership

LinkedIn profile: www.linkedin.com/in/lucyswanston

What does empowerment mean to you as a woman in printing?

Empowerment means having the confidence to drive change, make an impact, and inspire others in a traditionally male-dominated industry. It’s about using my voice to advocate for innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity, ensuring that women in print have a strong presence and a clear pathway to leadership.

Can you share a moment in your career when you felt truly empowered?

One of the most empowering moments in my career was becoming Chair of the Strategic Mailing Partnership. This role has given me the platform to support and elevate print businesses across the UK, fostering collaboration and championing the value of print in an ever-evolving digital world. Knowing that my contributions are helping to shape the future of the industry and create opportunities for others is incredibly rewarding. Additionally (sorry I know you said ‘a moment!’), winning the Canon Innovation Award for Topic Heroes, and being recognized as an IPIA Champion, have all been defining moments that reinforced my impact within the print sector. These accolades not only celebrate innovation and excellence in print but also highlight the power of creative thinking and dedication in driving the industry forward. I didn’t like writing that, as no one likes a show off, but I want to empower the young adults that I am fortunate enough to mentor to empower them to do the same.

What resources or programs have helped you grow in your career that you would recommend to young women?

Mentorship has been invaluable in my career, and I strongly encourage young women to seek mentors who can offer guidance and insight. Programs such as Girls Who Print, The Printing Charity’s Rising Stars Awards in the UK, and global industry networking groups provide excellent opportunities for learning, development, and building connections. Additionally, attending major print and marketing events can open doors to new ideas and career opportunities.

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