They’re building businesses, making strides in their careers, creating art and finding ways to make their communities stronger. Now, The Community Voice wants your help giving these young achievers the recognition they deserve.
Nominations are open for The Voice’s inaugural 30 Under 30, which will recognize 30 exceptional young adults ages 18–29 from across Kansas and the Kansas City metropolitan area.
The program aims to spotlight the accomplishments of a rising generation — people whose leadership, creativity, innovation and service are already making a difference. It also offers an opportunity to introduce readers to emerging talent and inspire other young people to pursue their own goals.
“Our communities have talented young people doing remarkable things, and too often their accomplishments go unnoticed,” said Bonita Gooch, publisher of The Voice. “We want to celebrate what they’re achieving now and help others see the promise we see in them. If someone comes to mind, don’t assume somebody else will nominate them.”
Nominees can work in any field, including business, education, health care, technology, public service, skilled trades, arts and community leadership. The search focuses on accomplishments, impact and initiative — whether someone is leading a major project or doing meaningful work outside the spotlight.
Think about the young people you know through your workplace, family, school or community organization. Who stands out? Who has turned an idea into action or helped others move forward?
When submitting a nomination, share specific examples of what the person has accomplished and why their work matters.
The nomination deadline is Oct. 8, 2026. Help us discover the next generation of people worth watching. Honorees will be featured in our Thanksgiving issue and honored in a followup reception.
There is no cash prize, but the recognition carries its own value: celebrating honorees’ accomplishments, raising their visibility and introducing their work to a wider community. To nominate someone for The Voice’s 30 Under 30, Click here.
