2025 WAVE Gala

Description

The WAVE Young Professionals Network is excited to announce the recipients of our 2025 Four Under 40 Awards! These awards recognize four outstanding young professionals between the ages of 18 and 39 who live and work in the Brainerd Lakes Area. An anonymous panel of judges reviewed and scored the submissions based on the following criteria: professional excellence, leadership, community involvement, and potential for future success.

The WAVE Gala will celebrate these four outstanding young professionals on September 18th at Catalyst by Nature Link in Nisswa. Chamber Members, Members of the WAVE Young Professionals Network, and the general public are invited to register and attend the gala and join us as we celebrate the accomplishments of the winners.

Born and raised in Pequot Lakes, Colton returned in 2018 with a fresh perspective and a deep sense of purpose. Within just a few years, he’s not only grown a successful real estate business but also created a gathering space beloved by locals and visitors alike. As founder and broker of Woods to Water Real Estate and co-owner of MN Traders Co. in Pequot Lakes, Colton is at the center of a new wave of leadership that’s reimagining what community can look like.

As CEO of Conductor Power and a Nisswa City Councilmember, Jesse Zahn is leading with vision in both business and public service. He brings a transparent, solution-driven approach to every role he takes on. Jesse is also a generous community supporter, actively giving back through events and local initiatives.

Max Walter brings thoughtfulness and purpose to his role at CTC and his involvement across the community. He’s an engaged voice in government affairs and a dedicated volunteer with local organizations. Max believes strong communities start with people who show up and lead with heart.

Scott Lykins is the Artistic and Executive Director of the Lakes Area Music Festival, where he brings world-class performances to the Brainerd Lakes Area. He’s expanded access to the arts in creative ways—whether on stage, downtown, or in underserved spaces. Scott’s work is transforming the region’s cultural and economic vitality.

Out of the four winners, one individual will be named the “Young Professional of the Year” and will be announced LIVE at the end of the WAVE Gala! This individual will receive additional recognition.

Celebrate where ambition meets elegance. Join the 2025 Four Under 40 award recipients for an evening of fine dining, connection, and recognition, framed by the breathtaking views at Catalyst by Nature Link.

RESERVED TABLE: $495

• Includes a reserved table for eight with assigned seating and plated dinner for eight individuals.
• Ticket Bundle: Buy 4 seats for $185!

INDIVIDUAL SEAT: $50

• Includes one seat and a plated dinner for one individual.

WAVE MEMBERS: $35

• Includes one seat and a plated dinner for one individual.
• WAVE Ticket Bundle: Buy 4 seats for $125! (Two of the four individual MUST be WAVE Members).

DINNER MENU

• Caprese Chicken Breast with Honey and Thyme Glazed Carrots and Cheddar Au Gratin Potatoes OR Mushroom Cap with Wild Rice
• Plated meal includes a Salad, Dinner Rolls, and Ugly Cheesecake Dessert

EVENT SCHEDULE

• 5PM: Social Hour
• 6PM: Dinner & Awards Program

DRESS CODE

• Cocktail attire in shades of blue, gold, or silver is encouraged, but not required
  
  

The Four Under 40 Awards recognize young professionals between the ages of 18 and 39 who live and work in the Brainerd Lakes Area. These four honorees exemplify leadership, ambition, and community impact—and inspire others to strive for excellence in all they do.

AWARD RECOGNITION

• Each winner will receive a personalized award at the Four Under 40 Awards Gala.
• Each of the four, Four Under 40 winners, will receive $500 for the charity of their choice. The Young Professional of the Year will receive an additional $500 for their charity.
• Four Under 40 winners will also receive recognition at the Chamber's Celebration of Excellence on November 20, 2025.

Young Professional of the Year Sponsor: $2,000 (1 Available)

• Announcement of the Young Professional of the Year LIVE at the WAVE Gala
• 2 Complimentary WAVE Gala tickets
• Logo included in event marketing
• Recognition at the day of event

Social Hour Sponsor: $500 (1 Available)

• Signature Drink
• Logo included in event marketing
• Recognition at the day of event

What is the WAVE Gala?
The WAVE Gala is an annual celebration hosted by the WAVE Young Professionals Network, a program of the Brainerd Lakes Chamber. It brings together community members for an evening of connection, recognition, and celebration—including the presentation of the prestigious Four Under 40 Awards, honoring outstanding young professionals in the Brainerd Lakes Area.

How many award winners are there?
Four individuals will receive a Four Under 40 Award. Out of these four winners, one individual will be named the “Young Professional of the Year” and will receive additional recognition. The YPY will be announced live at the end of the WAVE Gala.

Who can attend the WAVE Gala?
This event is open to the public. You do not have to be a member of WAVE or a Chamber member to attend. You do not need to be under 40 to attend—all are welcome.

What is the deadline to register to attend the WAVE Gala?
Friday, September 5, 2025 at 12pm.

What is the Gala dress code?
To compliment the evenings serene and radiant look, cocktail attire in shades of blue, gold, or silver is encouraged, but not required.

How do I purchase WAVE Gala tickets?
Click on the "Register to Attend" button below.