Joshua was nominated and awarded as National Landscape Student of the Year in 2020. Although unable to receive his Award in person due to the pandemic, he still remembers fondly how proud he felt; to have been nominated, a regional winner and then at the national level. Encouraged by his lecturer at Pershore whilst studying for his Level 3 in Horticulture, he continues to heed his personal mantra of persistence and striving to be your best self. Indeed, he attributes his BALI Chalk Student Award successes to this, standing out from the crowd, achieving Distinction, and being rewarded for his efforts and diligence.
What’s happened since?
Developing a strong affinity with design, Joshua wanted to focus on pursuing his degree in Landscape Architecture. In his time at Birmingham City University, he continued his award success by achieving two accolades for his final year submission; in Strategic Design Thinking and Graphic Solutions. He went on to study for his Masters before graduating in 2024 and joining Jacobs’ graduate programme almost straight away.
Joshua is now a Graduate Landscape Architect at Jacobs in Bristol. Joining soon after graduating, Joshua is currently working on some large transport and infrastructure projects, including one in Dublin.
What difference has winning the BALI Chalk Student Award meant?
“To say I was shocked to win the National Award was an understatement – I knew the competition was fierce! Winning gave me not only the confidence, but the belief in my own capabilities in the landscape – it was a real rubber-stamp of all the efforts I’d put in.”
What advice would you give to current and future students to help them make their mark in the UK landscape industry?
When asked what advice he would give to students entering the industry and being considered for the BALI Chalk Student Awards, Joshua wanted to emphasise his persistent determination to steer his career in the right direction.
“For me it is about being persistent, and consistent. Having a CV/portfolio with strong industry awards like the Student of the Year helped me stand out – and demonstrated my commitment in real terms.
My plan has always been to develop my skills, improve my outputs and invest in my personal development. Winning the BALI Chalk Student Award was an added bonus that helped me push forward faster, and with more confidence.”
What’s next for Joshua Reid?
Joshua is also an Ambassador for STEM, visiting schools and speaking to students about his experiences and the potential of career choices in the landscape, horticulture and design sectors. He plans to work towards Chartership with the Landscape Institute and is also considering his PhD options back at university. Ultimately, he would love to give back to the industry by becoming a lecturer.