Fayetteville’s 40 Under 40!

Celebrating young professionals building a brighter future across southeastern NC.

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Recognizing the Region’s Rising Leaders

Honoring impact-makers from Bladen, Cumberland, Harnett, Hoke, Lee, Moore, Robeson, and Sampson counties.

Continuing the Legacy

Fayetteville’s 40 Under 40 was established by Sharon Moyer as a way to recognize and celebrate the rising leaders shaping the region.

In 2024, the Observer entrusted the future of the program to Ayana Washington, a 2024 honoree and community leader with a strong track record of arts, culture, and civic engagement initiatives. This transition was part of a broader effort to grow the program into a more collaborative, community-led effort that continues to elevate excellence across southeastern North Carolina.

With Ayana’s leadership the Observer remains a proud partner and publisher of the annual 40 Under 40 class.

“I'm excited to see this initiative continue under Ayana's leadership,” -Beth Hutson, Editor, The Fayetteville Observer.

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Partners

Fayetteville’s 40 Under 40 is made possible through the generous support of community partners who believe in uplifting the next generation of leaders. By becoming a sponsor, you help amplify the stories of changemakers across our region and ensure this recognition remains a powerful, community-driven tradition. Sponsorship opportunities include visibility at our annual ceremony, placement in digital and print features, and year-round engagement with a network of rising professionals. Join us in celebrating excellence, inspiring leadership, and building a stronger future for southeastern North Carolina.

Become A Sponsor!

Support the Celebration of Local Excellence

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This Year’s Photographer

This Year’s Selection Panel

The 2026 class was selected through a community-nominated process reviewed by a vetted panel of regional leaders.

  • Panelist List:

    • Sharon Moyer – CityView

    • Toni King – Chief District Court Judge, Cumberland County

    • Ebony Warfield-Graham – Manager of Parking Operations, City of Fayetteville and Owner of the Ebony Collective

    • Brian Adam Kline – Artistic Director, Cameo Collective & Capitol Encore Academy

Tickets Available Soon

Contact us.

Want to get involved?