We are a few weeks into the nomination period for our first “20 Under 40” awards and we are so pleased to announce that we now have well over 20 nominations. It is impossible to overstress the importance of young professionals to any community. Not only are they our future, but they also provide a welcome increase in our area’s tax base. They create a snowball effect of attracting and infusing young energy and talent in our area. Young professionals can also organize themselves and bring energy to shape communities and alter local politics.
Do you know someone who is a champion in our community? Who is a successful up-and-coming leader? Who is a game-changer in his or her professional career or school? He or she might be recognized in the inaugural class in The Pine Belt News and Signature Magazine’s 20 Under 40 reader-submitted competition.
For the first time, Pine Belt News and Signature Magazine will celebrate the excellence of 20 local individuals between the ages of 18 and 40 who are achieving greatness in their personal life, career, community and/or academics. We are asking our readers to nominate individuals, and an independent group of community leaders will select 20 individuals under the age of 40 who represent the “best of the best” of the Pine Belt. The nomination process is simple: send an email to christina@hubcityspokes.com telling us why you think your nominee deserves this honor. Please be sure to include your contact information and the name, phone number, and email address of your nominee.
You can nominate anyone between the ages of 18 and 40 who is a trailblazer in his or her profession, gives back to our community in special ways, exhibits leadership qualities, or serves as a role model for our community. Nominees must live or work in Forrest or Lamar counties.
You can nominate an employee of your firm, a colleague, relative or friend – you can even nominate yourself (the nominator will not be made public). An independent group will evaluate the nominees based on the candidate’s professional or academic experience, leadership skills, and community service.
There is no limit to the number of entries each firm or person can submit, and there is no entry fee. The number of nominations a person receives has no impact on the selection process – all it takes is one nomination to be considered. This is a crucial segment of our population for our future, so please take a minute and let us know who is deserving of this much-needed pat on the back!
Christina Pierce is the publisher at Hattiesburg Publishing, which produces The Pine Belt News and Signature Magazine.
