What it really takes to be a 40 Under 40 finalist
InDaily’s 40 Under 40 Awards have long been a marker of ambition, leadership and momentum – and behind the scenes, a thoughtful judging process makes sure that recognition truly matters.
Being named an InDaily 40 Under 40 finalist can change a career. But, according to Joel Abraham, chair of the judging panel, it’s not just about hitting targets – it’s about how you lead, the impact you make and the integrity with which you do it.
For Abraham, the program offers a rare window into the next generation of business and community leaders shaping the state’s future. With more than two decades as a CEO, investor, board director and leadership coach, he brings both commercial sharpness and people-first perspective to the role.
“I work with business owners and founders to help them grow profitable, valuable and sustainable businesses, while also developing as effective leaders,” he says.
“Over the past two decades, I’ve built and led organisations as a CEO, investor and board director, and I now spend much of my time coaching SME owner-operators, serving on boards and investing in high-potential businesses across Australia.”
Abraham was drawn to InDaily‘s 40 Under 40 program because it celebrates more than just commercial results.
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“The 40 Under 40 Awards celebrate ambition, resilience and leadership at a formative stage of people’s careers,” he says. “I was drawn to the opportunity to recognise individuals who are not only achieving commercial success, but are also creating positive impact through their leadership, innovation and values.”
He has been involved with the awards for four years and says the most rewarding part is hearing the stories behind the success.
“What I enjoy most is seeing the depth of talent emerging across South Australia and hearing the stories behind the success – particularly the challenges overcome and lessons learned along the way,” he says.
So what separates a finalist from the rest? According to Abraham, judges look beyond surface-level results.
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“We assess leadership maturity, measurable impact, clarity of vision and the ability to balance growth with integrity,” he says. “Strong candidates demonstrate not only what they have achieved, but how they have achieved it and the influence they have on others.”
Each year, a handful of candidates leave a lasting impression.
“Each year there are individuals who stand out, not just for their results but for their humility, self-awareness and commitment to building something meaningful,” Abraham says. “It is often those who combine commercial success with genuine leadership and community impact who leave the strongest impression.”
Being named a 40 Under 40 finalist or winner can also provide a major career boost.
“Winning can be a powerful accelerator,” Abraham says. “It raises profile and credibility, opens doors to new networks and opportunities, and often provides validation at a critical point in a person’s career. Importantly, it can also reinforce confidence and momentum to pursue bigger ambitions.”
For those thinking about submitting, Abraham’s advice is simple: authenticity counts.
“The strongest submissions are honest about challenges, specific about impact and clear about future direction,” he says. “Judges value substance over hype and are particularly drawn to candidates who demonstrate learning, resilience and long-term thinking.”
Above all, the InDaily 40 Under 40 program is about more than awards – it’s about community.
“Being part of this program connects emerging leaders to peers, mentors and opportunities that can shape their careers for years to come,” Abraham says. “I would encourage candidates to see the process itself as a valuable growth experience.”
Nominations for the 40 Under 40 Awards close on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
Nominate someone or submit an application on the website.
