Gay Penfold wins lifetime achievement award

Gay Penfold has been given a Lifetime Achievement Award (LAA) at the Goldsmiths’ Craft and Design Council (GC&DC) 2025 Awards.

She is the chair of the British Jewellery and Giftware Benevolent Society and the former manager of the Jewellery Industry Innovation Centre at Birmingham City University.

The award is given in recognition of a recipient’s outstanding contribution and commitment to the craft and industry of Silversmithing, Jewellery and the Allied Crafts.

Penfold has been a key figure in the support, development, and growth of countless designer-makers and SMEs, both regionally and nationally.

In her role as chair of The Benevolent Society, she leads efforts to provide vital support to those facing financial hardship within the jewellery, giftware, surface engineering, and associated trades.

Under her leadership, the Society has expanded its reach, offering regular grants, emergency funds, and targeted initiatives such as the COVID fund and cost-of-living support.

Penfold said: “When I was informed that I had been selected for the LAA 2025, I was initially taken aback and was then overwhelmed. To receive such an accolade is a massive honour in itself, but to know that your peers nominated you makes it truly special.”

John Ball, chair of the Goldsmiths’ Craft and Design Council, added: “Gay’s ability to connect people, drive meaningful change, and champion the next generation of makers has made a lasting impact. Council wanted to recognise not just her achievements, but the spirit of generosity and leadership that defines her work.”

The annual GC&DC competition rewards “excellence in technical skills and creative design in precious metals and related materials”.

For 2025, the Awards comprised 33 competition categories in both 2D design and 3D craft and design categories, five other special awards, three bursaries, three Major Awards and three Premier Awards, as well as the prestigious College Trophy, totaling 47 Awards.