Last week the Business Record honored the 2023 class of Forty Under 40. Four of this year’s honorees work in the technology industry or entrepreneurial community.
Learn what issue they would like to see Central Iowa leaders address below and read their full profiles by clicking on their name.
Watch a replay of last week’s celebration
Marquas Ashworth, founder and owner, Ziyad Rye; entrepreneur, Center at Sixth
What is one issue you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address?
As a community, we should look for ways to address access in its various forms. When certain segments of our diverse population aren’t able to participate in wealth-building, whether it’s purchasing a home or small business loans, we hurt our entire ecosystem. Let’s find ways to grow Iowa from within, and the best way to do that is to invest within.
Srikant Mikkilineni, director and senior counsel of global privacy and data protection, Vontier
What is one issue you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address?
Iowa was once known for high-quality education. We need to achieve this again so we can grow the next generation of talent/industry here in Iowa and further our ranks as a top state, as well as attract new and retain existing talent. This can be done by refocusing our community efforts on advanced public school education, especially STEM topics, education based in fact, and teaching critical thinking skills to reestablish Iowa as an education leader.
Tony Tandeski, data analytics and SEO manager, DHI Group Inc. / owner, the Rook Room
What is one issue you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address?
I would like to see Central Iowa leaders focus on making our area a national leader in green initiatives, including prioritizing green infrastructure, renewable energy resources, environmental justice, cleaner transportation options, sustainable agriculture, water quality, and public green spaces that help to build community and bring people together. I would love for other cities to look at what Central Iowa is doing as an example for the future.
Diana Wright, startup community builder, Greater Des Moines Partnership
What is one issue you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address?
“You stand for what you tolerate” is a quote I recently read that I believe is critical for everyone to assess in business, relationships and politics. Whether it be ethical entrepreneurship, leaving the environment better than you found it or treating people with kindness and understanding — we all have work to do to ensure we are creating vibrant communities now and that can withstand time.