Niagara 40 Under Forty
Alumni Summit

A Legacy of Leadership and Excellence

For over two decades, the Niagara 40 Under Forty Business Achievement Awards have recognized young professionals who drive innovation, business success, and community impact. Our alumni are shaping Niagara’s future, and we’re proud to showcase their achievements.

Event

Reconnect & Rise:

40u40 Niagara 2025 Alumni Summit

Americana Conference Resort Spa & Waterpark

8444 Lundy's Ln, Niagara Falls

September 23rd, 2025

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In 2025, Business Link Media Group proudly launches the inaugural Niagara 40 Under Forty Alumni Summit—a milestone gathering designed to reconnect, celebrate, and inspire the region’s most accomplished young leaders.

This special event builds on over two decades of excellence. Since 2004, the 40 Under Forty Business Achievement Awards have recognized 880 outstanding individuals who have shaped Niagara’s business and community landscape. As we continue to honour that legacy, the Alumni Summit marks an exciting new chapter—bringing together past recipients for meaningful dialogue, reflection, and future-focused collaboration.

The 2025 Alumni Summit, taking place this September, is more than a gathering—it’s an opportunity to elevate leadership, celebrate impact, and build momentum for the next generation driving Niagara forward.

Inside Look: 40u40 Niagara 2025 Alumni Summit

The Niagara 40 Under Forty Alumni Summit brings together an influential network of alumni and community leaders for an afternoon of insights, dialogue, and strategic connection.

Attendees will engage in:
Three Expert-Led Panels
• Political Leadership – The importance of leadership in today's political landscape and how & why to take action

Moderated by former Mayor and 40 Under Forty alumnus Walter Sendzik (Class of 2004), this panel features insights from fellow 40u40 alumni:

Panelist: Mayor Jim Diodati (Class of 2004)

Mayor of Niagara Falls since 2010, he brings entrepreneurial drive and bold leadership to transformative projects like the GO Train, South Niagara Hospital, and a new downtown university. A four-term mayor and cancer survivor, he guided the city through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Known for his high energy and collaborative spirit, he continues to shape the future of Niagara Falls with vision, resilience, and purpose.

Panelist: Mayor Mat Siscoe (Class of 2019)

Mayor of St. Catharines since 2022, he brings over a decade of Council experience and a background in education. He established the SCORE fund to support local non-profits and currently serves as Treasurer for the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative. He also chairs the Niagara Transit Commission and Niagara Regional Housing, focusing on collaboration and community growth.

Panelist: April Jeffs (Class of 2011)

A former Mayor of Wainfleet and Niagara Regional Councillor, she co-chaired Public Health & Social Services and served as Budget Committee vice-chair. She later ran provincially and federally as a Conservative candidate, and now serves as Chair of the Niagara Parks Commission. In her role at Brock University, she leads government relations, building strategic partnerships across all levels of government.

Panelist: Krystle Caputo (Class of 2021)

Krystle Caputo is a senior consultant with ONpoint Strategy Group, bringing experience across private and public sectors. She has held executive roles including project manager, art director, and director of communications, and served as Chief of Staff for a large ministry under the Ford Government, overseeing a $20 billion budget. Her work spans land development, tourism, aerospace, environmental management, and municipal affairs. Recognized for her professional and philanthropic contributions, she received a 40 Under 40 award. Krystle is also an entrepreneur supporting infrastructure and community development projects, and above all, a wife and mother of two.

Moderator: Walter Sendzik (Class of 2004)

Founder of 12M Solutions and former Mayor of St. Catharines, he previously led the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce and founded Vines Publishing. As Mayor, he chaired the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative and Niagara Regional Housing. He has served on several boards including the LCBO and MPAC, and is a Top 40 Under 40 and Bernie Gillespie Award recipient.

• Educational Partnerships – Creating key collaboration with educational institutions for strategic planning and industry economic growth
• Financial Shifts & Pivots – Insights to Canada's current turbulent economic environment

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