Photo by Kat Fitzgerald, Seattle Wedding Photographer | Mystic Images Photography
The Windy City Times 30 Under 30 event took place last Thursday evening, honoring young LGBTQ+ professionals, activists, and allies for their skill and leadership. Emerging leaders from across the Chicago area received recognition, including two staff members from AIDS Foundation Chicago (AFC). The event is intended to amplify the work and achievements of awardees and to foster networking and collaboration to strengthen ties across LGBTQ+ community members and allies.
Michael Keating (they/them), the development communications manager at AIDS Foundation Chicago, was among the awardees. Over the past two years, they have spearheaded fundraising efforts for major events including World of Chocolate, AFC40 and AIDS Run & Walk Chicago. As staff lead for the CommunityDirect program, Michael provides coaching and capacity building support to help local non-profit agencies maximize their fundraising impact. Beyond their professional role, Michael organizes charity live streams on Twitch with friends, raising funds for Chicago’s storefront theaters and local non-profits.
Sara Kenward (she/her), senior graphic designer at AFC, was also recognized. She leads design across a wide range of materials—from digital campaigns and large-scale print to branded apparel, fundraising events, and cross-platform storytelling. Sara’s strength lies in translating complex ideas into accessible, engaging visuals, reflecting the communities her work serves. Her approach is collaborative and people-centered, guided by empathy and close attention to detail. She is especially passionate about working with mission-driven teams and believes great design should be bold, people-first, and grounded in purpose—amplifying voices, building community, and strengthening impact.
The event is a collaboration of AFC and Windy City Times. August Spree, senior manager of special events at AFC, coordinated the event with Andrew Davis and other partners. "This is the second time I have experienced this event and each time I walk away moved and inspired by what young people are doing in and for the community, and how their family and loved ones are supporting them and cheering them on,” she said. “Maybe next time I will remember to bring tissues!"
The event is inspiring as well as galvanizing, in a time where intergenerational leadership is essential to our resistance. “It is more important than ever that we recognize and cultivate leadership in the LGBTQ+ community and among our allies,” said Edward Wagner, chief external relations officer at AFC. “I am so proud of the AFC staff who received awards, and of all the honorees, whose diversity -- in both identity and skillsets -- shows the strength of our movement and the promise of our future.”
A full recap of the event and information about all honorees can be found in the Windy City Times. More photos from the event by AFC's Emilio Davis can be found on Flickr.
