FOR 2022

from 20 Under 40 awards 2022

Yodit Gidey 30

Annie Lepper

Are you a previous winner of 20 Under 40? If so, what year? What did it mean to be selected as a judge and be a part of the selection process?

Not a previous winner. Loved being a judge — you can see the behind the scenes nominees who don’t make the Top 20 but who are doing meaningful and amazing things for our communities.

As you read through the nominees, what was going through your mind?

Age has nothing to do with impact. You could be just starting out in adulthood, in a career, in life and still make a demonstrable difference to those around you.

Any special message to say to all the nominees and winners?

You are inspiring and your contributions to the quality of life in the Northland cannot be understated. Seeing the variety, the depth, and the passion of these nominees, a vibrant future in the Northland is a sure thing.

What is your favorite motivational quote?

“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.” – Dr. Seuss

Martha Bremer

Are you a previous winner of 20 Under 40? If so, what year? What did it mean to be selected as a judge and be a part of the selection process?

Yes! I was selected as a 20 Under 40 recipient in 2019. The call to judge this year’s cohort was as thrilling as being selected as a recipient. I was humbled, honored and excited to have the chance to read the nominations and debate with the talented members of the selection team.

As you read through the nominees - what was going through your mind?

There was an energy that built up as I reviewed each nomination that I didn’t anticipate happening: a new perspective and realization of how many good things are happening in our community by tremendous, sometimes anonymous, leaders who are giving back every day. It has been a tough, exhausting couple of years for everyone, this gifted pool of nominations hasn’t backed down, they are showing up and creating change, which is so impressive and motivating.

Any special message to say to all the nominees and winners?

What an amazing group of nominations, you made our job difficult! Thank you for doing your part to ensure our community is strong, safe, innovative, supported and thriving. You truly are the reason for our success. Congratulations!