Young Professional of the Year: Celebrating Rising Leaders in Tech
The 2025 Young Professional of the Year category honored emerging leaders making an impact in technology through innovation, mentorship, and career achievement. These finalists demonstrate resilience, creativity, and a commitment to lifting up women in tech.
Sarah O’Brien — Data Scientist, Southern Company | Winner
Sarah’s journey into technology began in high school, where a Business and Technology class sparked her interest in coding. Despite being one of the few women in her program, she stayed committed, earning recognition and winning 2nd place in Microsoft’s all-female hackathon in 2019. These early experiences fueled both her technical passion and her commitment to supporting women in technology.
At Georgia State University, Sarah earned her Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a minor in Data Science, graduating magna cum laude. She became a mentor for RISE in Computing, supported Black women in tech, and earned certifications in Python, MongoDB, and AI. She also contributed to university initiatives like HackHERs, GSU’s first all-female hackathon, creating pathways for other students to succeed.
Today, as a Data Scientist at Southern Company, Sarah leads AI innovation and inclusive learning initiatives, develops internal AI tools, and mentors interns who have gone on to roles at Google, Duolingo, and Dell. Her achievements reflect both her technical expertise and her dedication to lifting up others in the tech community.
“These achievements have helped me grow as both a leader and an advocate for women in STEM, showing that persistence, skill, and mentorship can open doors for the next generation.”
Anjie Adeyemo — Lead of Advanced Analytics, AT&T | Finalist
Anjie’s journey into tech began with a single conversation: a professor encouraged her to pursue a minor in data analytics. That one moment changed everything. Combining her love of medicine and data, she went on to assist in public health research, participate in a prestigious Harvard Data Science Summer Program, and speak on college panels for high school students.
Today, Anjie leads Advanced Analytics in Global Supply Chain at AT&T, spearheading key projects such as the Bundle Hold Dashboard and supporting strategic reporting initiatives. Along the way, she has earned certifications in SQL, Excel, and Jira, received scholarships and awards, and cultivated a platform where she lifts up women and minorities navigating tech.
Anjie also mentors students, volunteers with Girls Who Code, and shares her authentic journey at conferences and panels—demonstrating that there’s no single way to be a woman in technology. Her story shows that professional achievement and community impact can go hand in hand.
“I’ve always been soft-spoken, but over time I’ve found my voice through speaking engagements and mentoring others. I aim to share both wins and vulnerable moments to inspire others navigating tech.”
Vivian Milender — Product Manager II, Cox Automotive | Finalist
Vivian’s passion for technology began early, inspired by watching tech rapidly evolve and transform the way she learned and experienced the world. A pivotal moment came during a UGA WIT event, where she discovered early-career rotational programs—opening the door to her first chapter at Cox Enterprises.
Vivian joined Cox’s LEAD Program, excelling as an Associate Product Owner and now Product Manager II. Her work on the Wholesale Marketplace drives innovation in how vehicles are bought and sold nationwide. Along the way, she has mentored interns, contributed to early-career panels, and guided the next generation of talent.
She balances career growth with lifting up women and early-career professionals in tech, sharing guidance and opportunities to help others succeed. Outside of work, Vivian enjoys crafting, family time, cheering on the Yankees, and spending time with her mischievous pup, Loki.
“Strong mentorship and early exposure shaped my path, and now I aim to open doors for others, helping them grow in both their careers and confidence.”
Explore the rest of our 2025 WIT Awards Spotlight Series:
- Single Mother of the Year: Celebrating Strength, Resilience & Leadership
- Woman to Watch: Leading with Vision and Impact
- Woman of the Year: Small/Emerging Business — Driving Innovation and Equity in Tech
- Woman of the Year: Medium/Mid-Sized Business — Driving Innovation and Impact in Tech
- Woman of the Year: Large/Enterprise Business — Leading Transformation at Scale
