NACC announces annual Four Under 40 Achievement Awards honorees
The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce recently announced the recipients of its annual Four Under 40 Achievement Awards, recognizing outstanding young professionals who exemplify excellence across various domains.
This year’s award recipients are: Leslie Kane, Center for Creative Arts Therapy; Atusa Freyer, Naperville Country Club; Lauren Bierschenk, Lauren Bierschenk Farmers Insurance Agency; and Daveyon Bradley, Sundog IT.
“Imposter syndrome can be particularly strong in young professionals, and it can often feel like, because we haven’t been in the field for 20+ years, that we don’t qualify, aren’t ‘good enough,’ and haven’t accomplished enough to be recognized,” Kane said. “This Four Under 40 Achievement Award confirms to me that I am making a difference, and my hard work DOES matter, regardless of age or years of experience.”
The awards ceremony, scheduled for 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. June 26, will honor these four individuals for their contributions to the community and their respective fields. This year’s event will be held at Northern Illinois University’s Naperville Campus.
“Firstly, recognition is a powerful tool. It not only validates the hard work and passion that young leaders bring to their fields but also motivates them to continue pushing boundaries and striving for excellence,” Bradley said. “When we recognize emerging talent, we are essentially saying, ‘We see you, we value your contributions, and we believe in your potential.’ This acknowledgment can be a catalyst for further growth and innovation.”
The Four Under 40 Achievement Awards highlight excellence in four categories: Leadership in Community, Leadership in Business, Excellence in Career, and Life Balance. The event serves as a platform to showcase the talent, resilience, and ingenuity of emerging leaders while fostering connectivity and collaboration within the local business community.
“The chamber has provided me with mentors and peers that have helped me along the way,” Bierschenk said. “As a business owner you sometimes feel like you’re on an island. When I show up to a meeting or a ribbon cutting and see familiar faces and hugs from friends it feels like such a supportive team that you have.”
Attendees can hear the awardees’ success stories and insights, gaining valuable perspectives and practical knowledge to propel their entrepreneurial endeavors. Participants also will gain access to support, resources, and opportunities within the local business ecosystem, including mentorship programs, funding avenues, and business development initiatives.
“When looking to make an impact, first consider what drives you, fuels you, and fulfills you- then find someone who can help connect you with more people who could use this type of passion,” Freyer said. “There are a number of leaders within our community who would love to rely on someone who has a fierce passion for making a difference, however that looks like to you.”
For more information about the awards and to secure a spot, visit the chamber’s website, https://members.naperville.net.