The second edition of the 40 Under 40 Award 2018, closes nominations this Friday, August 17.

The Awards Gala is an initiative of Xodus Communications Limited and seeks to identify, honour and celebrate a cross-section of the nation's most influential and accomplished young business leaders under the age 40 from a wide range of industries.

Last year’s edition brought together about 350 guests and 121 nominees who are committed to business growth, professional excellence and community service and have risen through the ranks of their companies or industries at a relatively young age.

“We believe that in putting the spotlight on these young achievers it will not only celebrate them but also build a strong platform for them by giving a voice and opportunities to the next generation of industry pacesetters whiles building a positive attitude in our youth to strive for excellence at a tender age,” organisers said in a release.

The second edition of the Awards slated for October 13, 2018 at the Kempinski Gold Coast Hotel, is endorsed by the Ministry of Business Development, National Youth Authority and the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme. It is supervised by an Awards Board comprising; Prof. Atta Peters, Dr Paul Fynn, Prof. Essilfie Conduah, Dr. Ato Conduah and Dr. Ken Kwaku.

“Our Awards Board is seeking outstanding entrepreneurs, executives, managers and professionals in the public, private and non-profit sectors and will recognise attributes such as achievements in business, experience and innovation, vision, leadership and community involvement,” the release announced.

It added: “We aim to recognise and celebrate 40 emerging leaders under the age 40 who demonstrate or impact personally/professionally through exceptional leadership.”

The Awards categories cover a wide range of all the various sectors, ranging from banking and finance, health and wellness, human resource and development, education, among others. The rest include, oil and gas, beauty and lifestyle, aviation, entertainment, as well as authorship and creative writing.