The Independent Media Agencies of Australia (IMAA) has claimed four awards at the 2024 LearnX global education awards.

The accolades were given in recognition of the IMAA Academy, an industry-built education initiative for the media sector. Wins included Platinum for Best eLearning Project – eLearning project, Platinum for Best eLearning Project – widespread eLearning implementation, Diamond for Best Learning Model – Best Learning (Industry Specific), and Diamond for Best Learning Model – Online Learning.

The IMAA Academy, launched in March last year, is the organisation’s most significant education initiative. The comprehensive learning program was developed in partnership with Commercial Radio & Audio (CRA), the Outdoor Media Association (OMA), Boomtown, ThinkTV, ThinkNewsBrands, Val Morgan, as well as the IMAA’s media partners and agency members.

The training program includes eight e-learning modules, covering media, audio, digital, cinema, TV, out-of-home, regional, and publishing and news, along with videos, digital glossaries, and podcasts featuring industry leaders and channel experts. Since its launch, the IMAA Academy has trained hundreds of independent media professionals.

The IMAA recently announced a partnership with SBS for a new training module, focused on core inclusion skills, gender equity, cultural diversity, disability, First Nations, LGBTQI+, generational diversity and appropriate workplace behaviour.

CEO of IMAA, Sam Buchanan, said: “Taking home four LearnX Awards is important recognition on the global stage of our investment in the Academy. This program took more than two years to create, in consultation with more than 70 media experts and over 1,000 years of combined industry experience, to bring to fruition. These award wins are another example of how the IMAA is leading the way in Australia’s media industry, helping to invest in the future of the sector, and I’d like to thank all our experts, partners and members for contributing to what is now an award-winning initiative and a great legacy for our industry.

“This training program sets the benchmark for standardised learning in our industry and for students. There have been many people behind the scenes whose dedication has made this program possible including the IMAA team, the late Alex Pekish, Anthony Douglas, our learning management system partner Learnt, eLearning partner Big Consulting, as well as the invaluable support of industry bodies, members, and our partners. Since launching the IMAA Academy, we have trained hundreds of indie agency professionals, adding much-needed skill sets to our members and the broader media sector. These awards are one of the most prized accolades for learning, talent and skill development – we’re incredibly proud of this important recognition.”

The LearnX Awards are held globally, celebrating learning and talent development projects across corporate, education, public and not-for-profit sectors.