BAYARD AUDRE AWARD
The Bayard Audre Forty under 40 Award, named after two black LGBTQ+ icons, is a prestigious recognition given to individuals under 40 years of age who have demonstrated exceptional talent, leadership, and achievements in their respective fields. This honor is a symbol of excellence and a testament to the remarkable achievements and hard work of the next generation of LGBTQ leaders who are making significant strides in their careers and positively impacting their communities and emergency management as a whole.
LEARN ABOUT BAYARD RUSTIN
Political Leader & Civil Rights Activist
LEARN ABOUT AUDRE LORDE
American Poet, Philosopher & Feminist
There's More to Know
Red Carpet Livestream
You don't want to miss the 2025 Red Carpet show. The livestream will begin at 6:15pm CST. Watch as our awardees and guests enter for a night of magic and recognition.
Qualifications for Nomination
The awards are open to Black LGBTQ+ men and women, born on or after April 1, 1984, across the United States.
The winners will be awarded based on demonstration of leadership, industry and community impact made in the past year.
How will nominations be selected by the Nominations Committee?
Achievements
Outstanding achievements in the community and industry. When submitting a nomination, be specific, outlining the impact of the achievement.
Contribution
How has the contribution been inspiring to the next generation of Black LGBTQ+ people.
Testimonials
Testimonials to support the nomination entry from other leaders, community members, clients and colleagues.
Resilience
Examples of resiliences, grit, and determination. Tell us the challenges or complexities the nominated individual had to overcome and how they were tackled.
How To Submit a Nomination?
Are you shaping the future of tomorrow? Do you know someone who is making significant strides in their community or industry? Whether you're celebrating your own achievements or shining a light on a another leaders success, we welcome you to submit a nomination for the Bayard Audre Forty Under 40 Awards.
Self-Nominations: Stand up and be recognized! If you're under 40 (born on or after April 1, 1984) and making waves in your community or industry, we invite you to nominate yourself. It's your moment to highlight your professional journey and personal achievements.
Referrals: Have a trailblazer in mind? Submit a nomination! If you know someone who deserves this spotlight, let us know. We'll ensure their story is fully captured, from professional milestones to personal triumphs.
Our 2025 Award Sponsors
