The 2014 Nonprofit Leader 30 Under 30 Awards, recognizing young professionals in the nonprofit sector, were awarded to Andrew Young School of Policy Studies alumni Tayo Adeyefa and Kristyn Back.
After a statewide nomination process, the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network (YNPN) and the Georgia Center for Nonprofits (GCN) present the award to individuals who display “outstanding leadership, innovation and commitment in their community work.”
Adeyefa graduated from the Andrew Young School in May of 2012 with a B.S. in Public Policy and concentration in Nonprofit Leadership. Currently, he is the development coordinator at the National Kidney Foundation’s southeast region office, which includes Georgia, Alabama and the Carolinas.
In his position, Adeyefa raises funds for the nonprofit through grant writing, special events and more. Adeyefa says the 30 Under 30 Awards inspire him to work even harder.
“I’m honored to be among such greatness,” Adeyefa says. “The nonprofit sector has fearless leaders who have given their lives to making a positive difference in the world. I simply want to learn from their stories and continue the important work that’s ahead.”
Back graduated from the Andrew Young School in December of 2013 with a Master in Public Administration and a concentration in Nonprofit Management. While earning her degree, Back was a graduate assistant for the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance.
“The most rewarding part of working in the nonprofit sector is seeing the countless number of individuals who dedicate their lives to the field every day,” Back says. “It truly inspires me to see the unwavering passion from these leaders, and motivates me to continue making strides in the community. I am so grateful to be recognized as a 30 Under 30 honoree and look forward to what the future holds.”
Upon graduating, Back accepted the position as the new development associate for Park Pride, a nonprofit that works with communities throughout Atlanta and DeKalb County to help improve neighborhood parks and green space. Since receiving the award in September, Kristyn joined Kate’s Club as its new development coordinator. Kate’s Club is an Atlanta nonprofit that empowers children facing life after the death of a parent or sibling. In her new role, Back supports the manager of development and communications with annual fundraising events, grant writing and reports, communication materials and more.
Recipients of the 30 Under 30 Award must have worked in the nonprofit sector for at least two years, although they are not required to hold a leadership position, and must display outstanding contributions to the nonprofit sector. They will be recognized at the second annual NextGen Breakfast, hosted by YNPN, on Oct. 23.