The next generation of civic and corporate leadership in St. Louis took center stage Thursday evening as the St. Louis American Foundation hosted its 15th annual Salute to Young Leaders Awards Reception at the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis.
This year, 22 honorees were recognized for their impact across advocacy, entrepreneurship, nonprofit service and corporate leadership. Their work reflects a growing cohort of young professionals shaping the region’s future through service, innovation and community-driven leadership.
“What we saw across this cohort of honorees was a deep commitment to the city through advocacy, nonprofit and corporate leadership, creating opportunities for others and entrepreneurship,” said Raven Whitener, director of The St. Louis American Foundation. “They are not waiting for change. They are helping create that change – and that’s what makes this night so important.”
The celebration was supported by sponsors including the Regional Business Council of St. Louis, the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, Ameren, World Wide Technology, The Steward Family Foundation, The Opportunity Trust and Edward Jones.
Among those honored was media personality and communications strategist Jessica “Jess Live” Anderson, co-founder of Juxtapose 1764, a public relations and brand development firm focused on elevating businesses and creatives.
“I’m so blessed to be here,” Anderson said. “It means a lot to be chosen to represent the community and the St. Louis American Foundation.”
Known to listeners across the region through her work on 96.3 R&B for the Lou and Hot 104.1, Anderson said her faith has remained her anchor throughout the highs and challenges of her career. “My faith is one of the key components of how I move forward,” she said. “There are times when I feel disappointed in myself, but I trust in God, and I know what He says about me.”
Her mother, Valesa Anderson, sat proudly in the audience, watching her daughter accept the honor. “She’s so much more than what people see,” she said. “I’ve seen the flip side of her hard work. I know her grind. People only see the fruit — they don’t see it when it’s growing. The beauty of it is when it gets to flourish, and I’m so happy to see that she is.”
The evening’s keynote address — delivered with the cadence of a sermon — came from Orvin Kimbrough, chairman and CEO of Midwest BankCentre. His message challenged honorees to recognize the influence they hold in their industries and communities.
“Whatever you do — whether in business, nonprofit or government — do not underestimate the power of your seat,” Kimbrough said. “Your position gives you a chance to open doors, build bridges and shift narratives about what is possible.”
He urged the honorees to lead with purpose and authenticity. “In today’s America, it matters that Black and Brown professionals understand the value of your presence,” he said. “Do not shrink. Don’t hide your gifts. Do not hide any aspect of who you are. Do not wait for someone else to give you permission to occupy your space. Be authentically you.”
Throughout the evening, attendees applauded as mistress of ceremonies and KSDK 5 On Your Side reporter Melanie Johnson read biographies highlighting each honoree’s professional accomplishments and community impact. “Through these young people, we are reminded that the soul is still in St. Louis,” Johnson said. “They do not gatekeep. They are opening doors for those coming behind them.”
After the formal program, the celebration transitioned into an upscale after-party produced by the Morgan Casey Experience. Guests explored interactive activations including a fragrance bar by Le Luxe STL and a coffee-and-floral installation curated by Latte Lounge. As DJ PBN Jeffy filled the ballroom with early-2000s hits like “Bird Walk,” “Shoulder Lean” and “Photo Shoot,” honorees reconnected with friends and family in a room full of energy.
For many, the night was both recognition and affirmation.
“The St. Louis American Foundation knows how to make someone feel seen and celebrated,” said honoree Valerie Hughes, co-founder and executive director of Frizzy By Nature. “Congrats to all of the awardees. What an amazing group of Black and brown leaders.”
“I feel blessed to be a light,” added Leslie Hughes, co-founder and CEO of Frizzy By Nature and sister-in-law to Valerie.
In the end, the night matched the honorees’ own balance of professionalism and the community roots that continue to guide them.