ICONS Awards

Celebrating Richmond Regions's Rising Stars | Young Professionals & Organizations making an Impact

Step into a night of prestige, celebration and inspiration at the HYPE ICONS Awards 2026, honoring young professionals and businesses shaping the Richmond region. Now in its 11th year, this signature event recognizes individuals age 40 and under who are making a tangible difference in their communities, as well as companies excelling in fostering a culture that supports and elevates young talent.

As one of Richmond’s premier celebrations of young professional excellence, ICONS brings together emerging leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, and community changemakers for an unforgettable evening recognizing the people and organizations moving our region forward.

2026 ICONS

Community Champion

Recognizing young professionals who are creating lasting change through community service and advocacy.

2026 ICON: Cymone Hall, Black Girls of RVA
Genesis Corporan, Dominion Energy
Brittney Schuessler, Solterra School
Matthew Tucker, CARITAS
Mario Wells, Better Housing Coalition

Maverick Mentorship

Celebrating mentors who elevate others, fostering the next generation of leaders with guidance and support.

2026 ICON: Terrell "Will" Hackney, D1 Training
Ashley Bocklet, Bloomfield & Company
Braxton Byerson, Braxton Byerson Enterprise
Brittani Edwards, Dominion Energy
Ava Plummer, Dominion Energy

Trailblazing Trendsetter

Honoring innovators who break boundaries and set trends, reshaping industries and reimagining what’s possible.

2026 ICON: Ishmael Sandiford, Fit-X Experience
Sam Drauschak, Cavi Consulting
Kaitlin Paige Longoria, 5th Wall Theatre
Maggie McVicar, The Richmond Forum
Erin Raines, Keiter

Young Professional of the Year

Celebrating an outstanding young professional who embodies leadership, vision, and a passion for progress.

2026 ICON: Katelynn Vance, Dominion Energy
Cymone Hall, Black Girls of RVA
MiYana Teasley, HHS, LLC
AC Tierny, GoochlandCares
Blake Wehman, Remission Medical

Nonprofit of the Year

The Non-Profit of the Year award honors a non-profit organization that has shown exceptional dedication to engaging and empowering young professionals.

2026 ICON: YMCA of Greater Richmond
AI Ready RVA
Greater Richmond Fit4Kids
Junior Achievement of Central Virginia
Podium RVA

Small Business of the Year

This Small Business of the Year award recognizes a small business with 100 or fewer employees that has demonstrated exceptional performance, innovation, and community involvement.

2026 ICONS: Alps Dx
Cavi Consulting
Elite Management Group
Health In Mind
Kanda Consulting

Large Business of the Year

The Large Business of the Year Award recognizes a business with more than 100 employees that has demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation, and a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility.

2026 ICON: Thalhimer
Atlantic Union Bank
Dominion Energy