NextGen LGBTQ+ Leaders

Do you know an under 40 LGBTQ+ leader who’s making a difference?
Plexus LGBT & Allied Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to launch the NextGen LGBTQ+ Leaders, celebrating the bold, bright, and brilliant young LGBTQ+ professionals making waves in Northeast Ohio. These awards honor rising stars who are shaping industries, driving innovation, and making a lasting impact in their communities.

We’re spotlighting the next generation of queer changemakers—those who are not only excelling in their careers but also using their voices to uplift and empower others. By recognizing their achievements and civic contributions, we’re ensuring they get the visibility and recognition they deserve.
Nominate them today and help us celebrate the future of queer success!
Self-Nomination Instructions:
If you’re a passionate, driven, and community-minded LGBTQ+ professional making an impact in Northeast Ohio, we encourage you to nominate yourself! This is your chance to highlight your accomplishments, share your story, and gain the recognition you deserve.
When completing the nomination form, be sure to:
Showcase Your Achievements: Describe your professional journey, key milestones, and contributions to your field.
Highlight Your Community Impact: Share how you’ve given back, uplifted others, or advocated for LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Be Authentic: This award is about celebrating who you are and the impact you’re making—own your story!
Timeline:
March 1 - Nomination Close Date
March 5 - Nomination Review/Award Selection Dates
March 19 - Annual Meeting/Award Recipient Announcement - attendance encouraged
May 8 - NextGen Celebration - attendance required

NOMINATOR INFORMATION

Nominees can be self nominated.

Nominator's Full Name

First Name *

Last Name *

Pronouns

(Optional)

Phone *

Email *

Professional Title

Current Employer *

NOMINEE INFORMATION

Nominee's Full Name

First Name *

Last Name *

Pronouns

(Optional)

Professional Title

Phone *

Email *

Is the nominee between the ages of 22 and 40? *

Yes No

Is the nominee or their employer a Plexus member? *

Yes No Not Sure

How has the nominee positively impacted the LGBTQ+ community within their workplace? *

Describe specific actions, programs, policies, or advocacy efforts they have led or contributed to that have improved LGBTQ+ inclusivity in their professional setting. (Recommended: 150-200 words)

How has the nominee demonstrated initiative, leadershi, or innovation in their role? *

Provide examples of how the nominee has stepped up as a leader, pioneered new ideas, or driven meaningful change in their industry or community. (Recommended: 150-200 words)

How has their involvement helped them create change or build community within Northeast Ohio? *

Highlight any leadership roles, volunteer work, or advocacy within organizations and how these efforts have contributed to meaningful impact. (Recommended: 150-200 words)

How is the nominee creating positive change for the LGBTQ+ community in Northeast Ohio? *

Share their broader influence beyond their workplace—whether through mentorship, activism, policy advocacy, public speaking, or other efforts that empower LGBTQ+ individuals in the region. (Recommended: 150-200 words)

Is there anything else you would like to share about the nominee, including their character, personal qualities, or additional positive attributes?

This is your opportunity to highlight anything that hasn’t been covered but makes the nominee stand out. (Recommended: 100-150 words, optional but encouraged)

NextGen LGBTQ+ Leaders

Stay Connected

Get in touch

Newsletter Sign Up