Manatee Chamber Announces Winners for the 6th Annual MYP Awards
The 2026 MYP Awards were held as part of the 2026 MYP Gala & Awards: Raise the Stakes event on Thursday, April 16, at The Elia Event Venue. This event honored young professionals who demonstrated initiative and excellence in their careers, contributed time and energy in serving the community, and sought to support others through leadership and advocacy. We also honored employers that implemented creative and intentional initiatives to attract and retain young talent in our region.
The Manatee Chamber of Commerce and its Manatee Young Professionals Program (MYP) hosted the awards. Justin Phillips of Minuteman Press of Bradenton, 2026 Chair of the Board, and Kellie Spring of SERVPRO of Bradenton, 2026 MYP Chair, emceed the event. This year, there were thirty-seven nominations with five winners selected.
Shawn Osborne of Cox Chevrolet was honored with the Engagement Award for his exceptional commitment to Manatee Young Professionals and the broader community. A consistent and enthusiastic leader, Shawn actively contributes his time, energy, and connections to support events, secure sponsorships, and strengthen member engagement. His dedication to mentorship, community involvement, and building meaningful relationships exemplifies the spirit of the award.
Karena Ballard of the Pittsburgh Pirates and Bradenton Marauders was recognized with the Bright Beginnings Award for her early and impactful contributions to both her organization and the community. Bringing energy, enthusiasm, and a strong sense of purpose, Karena has quickly established herself as a dedicated connector, supporting volunteer efforts and representing her organization at numerous events. With more than 150 community touchpoints in the past year, her commitment to building relationships and creating meaningful engagement opportunities highlights her bright future as a community leader.
Amariah Dawes of Johnson Messal Bristow PLLC was honored with the Legacy Award for her outstanding leadership, professional achievement, and lasting impact on the community. She has played an instrumental role in fostering mentorship and engagement within her organization while actively supporting initiatives that empower youth, young women, and small businesses. Through her involvement in the MYP Mentor Program, Chamber leadership, and community service, Amariah continues to invest in and uplift the next generation of leaders.
Oysters Rock Hospitality was recognized with the Employer Award for its strong commitment to developing and supporting young professionals. Through intentional mentorship, leadership development, and clear career pathways, the organization has created opportunities for team members to grow into long-term roles and leadership positions. By fostering a culture centered on stability, education, and advancement, and maintaining an active presence in community initiatives, Oysters Rock Hospitality stands out as a leader in cultivating the region’s future workforce.
Aubrie Stevens-Polson of Harbor Chiropractic was named Young Professional of the Year for her outstanding leadership, resilience, and overall impact on both Manatee Young Professionals and the community. A dedicated advocate for connection and service, Aubrie has played a key role in growing her organization’s presence while actively mentoring others and supporting local initiatives. Her commitment to uplifting those around her, combined with her perseverance and passion for community engagement, exemplifies what it means to be a leader among leaders.
Engagement Award
Shawn Osborne
Cox Chevrolet
2900 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton, 34207
(941) 756-0621
Bright Beginnings Award
Karena Ballard
Pittsburgh Pirates / Bradenton Marauders
1911 9th St W, Bradenton 34205
(941) 747-8151
Legacy Award
Amariah Dawes
Johnson Messal Bristow PLLC
1001 3rd Ave W, Suite 750, Bradenton 34205
(941) 877-2022
Employer Award
Oysters Rock Hospitality
John Horne, President
6688 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton 34210
(941) 725-0100
Young Professional of the Year Award
Audrie Stevens-Polson
Harbor Chiropractic
1813 Manatee Ave W, Bradenton 34205
(941) 761-1100
The 2026 MYP Awards Judges:
· Caitlyn Cobb, Star Academy of the Performing Arts
· Jodie Hernandez, Parkwood Dental
· Stewart Moon, Air & Energy
· Melissa Munker, Pines of Sarasota Health Care, LLC
· Haley Yursky-Fischer, State College of Florida Manatee-Sarasota
Thank you to our sponsors:
· Cocktail Reception Sponsor: Pittsburgh Pirates / Bradenton Marauders
· Category Award Sponsors:
o Cox Chevrolet
o Esposito Law Group, P.A. (ELG)
o Goodwill Manasota
· Casino Credit Sponsor: Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU)
· Invitation Sponsor: Minuteman Press of Bradenton
· Jackpot Sponsor: Ware’s Jewelers
· Selfie Station Sponsor: SERVPRO of Bradenton
· Program Sponsor: Sarasota Paradise
· Winners Cup Sponsor: Swag4Brands, LLC
· Casino Table Sponsors:
o Paragon Fitness & Personal Training
o Pines of Sarasota Health Care, LLC
· Casino Celebration Sponsor: Aloha Party Experts
· Sip & Celebrate Sponsor: Fiorelli Winery & Vineyard