APIL is proud to once again be an event partner for the 2025 40under40 Awards, powered by Business News. Looking forward to celebrating the next crop of WA's top 40 young business achievers.
The Business News 40under40 Awards have long been more than a celebration of young talent. They are a launchpad for the next wave of leaders, visionaries and changemakers. Each year, this award program doesn’t just recognise achievement – it creates a legacy of impact across sectors that defines the state’s future. I get asked all the time about past winners and what they are doing now, or bump into someone that says, "I won a 40under40 award, way back", before launching into a story on what it's meant for their personal journey. Many alumni have since taken on influential roles and led ventures that exemplify the values of resilience, innovation and community focus: Some awardees, like Mark Barnaba and Kevin Gallagher have climbed to the highest executive roles in major corporations, overseeing strategic transformations in sectors as diverse as banking, energy and telecommunications. Their influence setting benchmarks nationally and internationally. Others transitioned into public service like Sally Capp AO, where their business acumen has informed policies that enhance community services and economic growth. From boardrooms to council chambers, these leaders are driving public-private initiatives and making substantial contributions to the broader community. In the pure entrepreneurial sphere, several past winners have built start-ups from the ground up, with some, like Michael Malone, Adam Yap and Dr Jemma Green going on to have their businesses become household names. Their success stories inspire a new generation of WA innovators and underline the power of bold ideas combined with determination. Some have gone on to lead in social causes, such as Jahna Cedar OAM and Akram Azimi, later founding nonprofits and social enterprises that address community welfare, mental health and educational support. These leaders remind us that sustainable impact is possible across all walks of life. A bunch of winners took their expertise to the board level like Fiona Kalaf Andrew Thorburn and John Van Der Wielen, becoming key advisors in industries such as property, healthcare and agriculture. Their insights have propelled organisational growth, environmental initiatives and sustainable practices that are central to WA’s long-term prosperity. And these names are just a tiny cross-section of the remarkable alumni. It would be fascinating to catch up on what all past winners are doing now. Maybe a new project for the talented Business News editorial team - “950+ 40under40 Winners - Where Are They Now?” 😅 Without question, the impact of the 40under40 Awards goes far beyond just a night of celebration. It has become a cornerstone in identifying and supporting individuals who go on to shape our economy, enrich our communities and inspire others to reach new heights. Are you or someone you know the next visionary under 40? Nominate them here - https://lnkd.in/gvTkATDd #40under40 #Leadership #Innovation #CommunityImpact #BNEvents