As the nominator, here is what we ask of you: Look around your community and think about who stands out to you and meets the following criteria:

• Under the age of 40 as of December 31, 2024 (yes, you might have to ask them, but they would be honored that you are thinking of them for an award!)
• Lives and works in the Siouxland community. (Approximately a 60-mile radius around Sioux City.)
• Is a business owner or executive/manager/director or has experience in this area, within their organization. (This can be a large corporation, small business, or non-profit organization.) *This is no longer a requirement as long as the individual has demonstrated strong leadership skills and influence within the community.

Leadership comes down to influence. We are looking for those individuals who positively influence others to action, as well as taking action themselves. They are individuals who are passionate about making their community better, recognizing that it starts with them and expands from there. They are committed to self-growth and improvement. They engage with people and organizations that are creating a positive impact in Siouxland. They are the visionaries, the connectors, and the doers.  

Nominee has a history of displaying:

• Vision, Leadership and Community Impact
• Innovation and Achievement
• Growth & Development
• Community Involvement or Contribution
• Consistent Display of Excellent Character and Ethics

Items that the judges will be asked to keep in mind (in addition to the criteria outlined above):

• Academic or Apprenticeship Training (degrees earned, on-the-job experience, licensure, etc.)
• History of Client Relations
• Dedication to Siouxland
• Leadership Skills & Mentoring Ability
• Personal Integrity & Character
• Consideration of Community Outreach as the applicant's job vs. extra time spent outside of work life
• Consider Diversity When Selecting Entrants

The judges' decisions are final. No correspondence will be entered into with the entrants until decisions are made. Judges cannot nominate anyone, and they do not work for Siouxland Magazine or Empowering Conversations, LLC.

Siouxland Magazine will notify winners by 15th of July. Winners will take part in a cover photo shoot shortly after notification of win. Winners will have their group photo gracing the September cover of Siouxland Magazine, individual pictures included within the magazine, and videos shared on Siouxland Magazine's social media pages.

*Siouxland Magazine reserves the right to publish entrants' photos, videos and biographical details.

**Any submissions after July 1st will not be eligible.