Related video: FOX21 Morning News previewed the Mayor’s Young Leader Awards and the nomination process in August 2025.
(COLORADO SPRINGS) — On Wednesday, Nov. 5, Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade recognized seven individuals for having a positive impact in their community.
The annual Mayor’s Young Leader Awards was started by Mayor Steve Bach in 2015, according to Mayor Mobolade, who was nominated and received the first Mayor’s Young Leader Award in the Community and Economic Impact category.
On Wednesday, the 10th annual ceremony honored seven individuals out of 21 finalists in seven categories, and FOX21 News Storm Team Chief Meteorologist Matt Meister served as the event’s emcee.
The 2025 winners are:
Military Leaders Award: Major Matthew Johnson, United States Army
Technology and Sustainability: Major Kevin Cardenas, United States Air Force
Sports, Health and Wellness: Nicole Weis, Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience at UCCS
Education: Jessica Wise, Colorado Springs School District 11
Economic Impact: Trevor Terrill, EarthX
Creative Industry: Michelle Winchell, Downtown Partnership
Community Impact: Monique Lewis, Care and Share Food Bank
“I am deeply proud and inspired by the excellence and heart displayed by this year’s winners and finalists,” said Mobolade. “They represent the next generation of community-builders and changemakers whose leadership is already shaping Colorado Springs. Their work reminds us that leadership begins with presence, compassion, and courage. These winners are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are leading us today. Together, they are helping build a city where leadership looks like service, where impact looks like inclusion, and where every voice has room to rise.”
