Mayor's Young Leader Awards

Graphic that reads "2025 Mayor's Young Leader Awards"

At the heart of our city's progress are individuals who drive change, inspire others, and exemplify leadership. The Mayor's Young Leader Awards are an opportunity to celebrate exceptional young leaders from all walks of life. This annual awards program recognizes professionals ages 40 and under in seven different categories who are stepping up to current challenges and serving as leaders in Colorado Springs through their work and volunteerism.

Nominations for 2025 are now closed. Finalists will be announced in September and will be invited to attend the awards ceremony on Wednesday, Nov. 5 at the Pinery at the Hill.

Purchase tickets for the awards ceremony

Fun fact: Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade was nominated and received the first award in the Community and Economic Impact category when the program launched under former Mayor Steve Bach in 2015!

Community Impact

An individual who has measurably impacted the community through their contribution, involvement, or events. They show a tangible effect on the community outside of their normal business, including volunteer efforts, board service, and clear commitment to sustainable social responsibility.

Nominees

Monique Lewis — Care and Share Food Bank for Southern Colorado
Sandra Haley — The Salvation Army Family Hope Center
Skyler Nelson — Bailey Military Support / Bailey Military Family Support Group.

Creative Industry

An individual who has used creative methods or systems to transform their given industry and demonstrates the power of art and business working together to make a positive impact.

Nominees

Michelle Winchell — Downtown Colorado Springs Partnership
Jacob Pope — Chamber Orchestra of the Springs
Chantal Lucas — Amaris Group / Chef Lucas Catering

Economic Impact

An individual who has measurably impacted the local economy through their business, community involvement or events. They have had a tangible effect on the economy, including job creation, workforce development, or an innovative business model that promotes social goals.

Nominees

Trevor Terrill — EarthX
Juelz Ramirez — StompinGroundz 719 Coffee Shop
Hannah Wheeler — FirstBank of Colorado Springs

Education

An individual who has used creative and non-traditional approaches to improve education, thereby fostering future generations of innovative thinkers.

Nominees

Emma Luu — The Luu Group / Pine Creek High School
Jackie Lujan — The Lighthouse Early Care and Education
Jessica Wise, Ph.D. —Colorado Springs School District 11

Military Leader

An active-duty individual who has led by example outside their military role to embody the values of integrity and excellence in service into the greater community.

Nominees

Matthew Johnson — Captain, United States Air Force, Peterson Space Force Base
Master Sergeant Kyle Dougherty — Master Sergeant, United States Air Force
Matthew J. Neagu — Major, United States Army

Sports, Health & Wellness

An individual who has made a standout contribution as a health and wellness champion, improving the lives of others, physically, emotionally and mentally. They have had a tangible effect in sport and recreation initiatives to bring community together and make it possible for more people and societal groups to live healthier, happier lives.

Nicole Weis — Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS)
Paige Whitney —University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Nicole Eckles — Safe Passage Children's Advocacy Center

Technology & Sustainability

This individual has provided enhancements in technology and sustainability that advance our city’s productivity, improved efficiency, increased performance, or provided innovative results to make our community a better place for future generations.