Two words describe how Melissa Castenda felt at the Gwinnett Young Professionals’ 35 Under 35 Awards gala: “deep gratitude.” 
In a room of 70 Gwinnett changemakers, Melissa described hearing her name as the winner as “surreal” when she became one of the night’s 35 honorees.
“Sitting in that room and hearing my name called alongside such an inspiring group of leaders was a powerful moment of pause,” said Melissa. “It was a gentle reminder to stop, look up, and appreciate how far the journey has come.”
The Gwinnett Young Professionals’ 35 Under 35 Awards is an annual gala that recognizes young professional leaders making a lasting impact through their work in Gwinnett communities.
Through her work at the Coalition, Melissa helps connect residents with health education, resources, and community support. From organizing health fairs to leading health literacy workshops, her work focuses on helping individuals and families access information that supports their health and well-being.
“When you’re in the trenches of community work, building partnerships, organizing health fairs, and advocating for community health education, you’re rarely thinking about recognition,” said Melissa. “You’re focused on the people you’re serving.”
Although Melissa sees herself as a humble servant with a fulfilling career as the Community Health Coordinator at the Gwinnett Coalition, her nomination wasn’t the first time her work has been celebrated. Over the summer, Melissa was a finalist for the 2026 Moxie Award, recognizing someone who has made an “extraordinary impact on her professional career and the values of her workplace.”
For Melissa, this award is proof that “passion, consistency, and heart…” are at the center of how she shows up for people every day, whether it’s a family at her health literacy workshop, her teammates in the office, or her family at home.
“Balancing a career in community engagement while raising a young child and staying active in local initiatives isn’t always easy. This award felt like a quiet, deeply meaningful confirmation that every late night, every challenge overcome, and every boundary pushed was truly worth it.”
