MEDA (Mennonite Economic Development Associates) is now accepting nominations for its second annual 20 Under 35 Young Professionals Changing the World awards.
The awards seek to recognize 20 young professionals younger than 35 who exhibit a commitment to faith, service and an entrepreneurial spirit. Nominations will be accepted at 20under35.com until Sept. 1, 2015.
MEDA started its 20 Under 35 initiative in 2014 as a way to recognize an often-unnoticed group of amazing young individuals enriching their communities, their businesses and their networks for good.
“At MEDA, we have the unique opportunity to witness young people changing their world as we engage with our dedicated network of supporters,” said Dave Warren, Chief Engagement Officer at MEDA. “We want to make sure these people are honored for their important efforts.”
Ethan Eshbach, Coordinator of the 20 Under 35 awards, agreed. “It’s a humbling experience to look at the nominations we receive. These young professionals aren’t doing their work for personal gain. They’re deeply invested in the lives of others and are passionate about making the world a better place.”
This year, Everence is pleased to partner with MEDA, serving as the official sponsor for the 20 Under 35 awards.
“As an organization that embraces MEDA values, we are delighted to partner with them in this initiative,” said Warren.
The awards are changing the lives of past recipients. Chris Steingart, owner of QT Web Designs in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, and a 2014 20 Under 35 award honoree, said recently that this recognition positively impacted his business. “Clients saw the coverage [that came with winning a 20 Under 35 award] and it reminded them to get in touch [with my business].”
Award recipients will be celebrated at the 2015 MEDA Convention in Richmond, Virginia.
About MEDA
MEDA is an international economic development organization whose mission is to create business solutions to poverty. Founded in 1953 by a group of Mennonite business professionals, MEDA partners with the poor to start or grow small and medium-sized businesses in developing regions around the world. Their expertise includes a full range of economic development tools: financial services, improved technology, business training, better access to markets and equity investment. Their work most often focuses on women, youth and the rural poor. MEDA believes that all people deserve the opportunity to earn a livelihood and that unleashing entrepreneurship is a powerful way to alleviate poverty.
About Everence
Everence helps individuals, organizations and congregations integrate faith with finances through a national team of advisors and representatives. Everence offers banking, insurance and financial services with community benefits and stewardship education. Everence is a ministry of Mennonite Church USA and other churches. To learn more, visit everence.com or call (800) 348-7468.