When Comstock’s editors began planning at the beginning of the year for the July issue showcasing young professionals in the Capital Region, the notion of a pandemic wasn’t part of the conversation. But it soon became obvious that our focus needed to be on young leaders who are making a difference during the coronavirus crisis. 

And after California Gov. Gavin Newsom issued his shelter-in-place orders March 19, Comstock’s Art Director Carly Cornejo and freelance photographer Terence Duffy knew it was their responsibility to ensure the safety of those who needed to be photographed.

So they took the honorees outdoors, individually, to the trails along the Sacramento River Deep Water Ship Channel in West Sacramento. Comstock’s videographer Jason Balangue went along to give readers a behind-the-scenes look at the process. 

We’ll be unveiling the profiles of our 10 honorees online over the next two weeks. In the meantime, you can check out our digital edition of the July issue here. 

Honorees:

• Sophia Bollag, political reporter, Sacramento Bee
• Rosie Dauz, president, Philippine National Day Association
• Nicholas Haystings, executive director, Square Root Academy
• Chris Kay, president, Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce
• Lisandro Madrigal, CEO and founder, Chando’s Tacos and Chando’s Cantina
• Chelsea Minor, corporate director of public affairs, Raley’s
• Kevin Phan, founder, president and CEO, Capital Asian American Professional Society and CAAPS Foundation
• Holly Powers, assistant director, Placer County Office of Emergency Services
• Zayn Silmi, founder, The People of Sacramento and The People’s Firm
• Vanessa Walker, medical director, Sutter Health Valley Area electronic lCU