Being fresh out of Journalism at Grant MacEwan College, I only had a vague idea about what hard work really is. Spending long hour’s writing papers for classes is one thing—actually taking on a project such as the 2007 edition of the Sizzling Twenty under 30 and bringing it to life is something entirely different.

Four months ago, I walked out of the classroom for the last time. All I needed to collect my diploma was to complete my internship at Edmontonians. When I first started reading the thick stack of biographies handed to me by Barb Deters, my wonderful and supportive editor, I must admit I felt quite intimidated. From an aspiring Olympic athlete and actor to artists and designers… from technologically gifted individuals to millionaire entrepreneurs three years my junior and everyone in between, time and time again I was left in awe of the sheer talent that our city has produced.

There were added challenges to that of writing 20 distinct profiles. My availability was a snap compared to the busy days the Sizzlers have… and, beyond the interview process, I had the responsibility for coordinating photo sessions that suited everyone’s schedule. The level of cooperation was heart-warming.

And now, looking back, I realize I have been blessed to have had the rare opportunity and privilege to interview some of the most fiercely intelligent, ambitious and hard-working people I have ever met.

If the 2007 Sizzlers are any indication, it can safely be said—however cliché it may sound—that the future of Edmonton is truly in good hands. √

Photo by Terry Bourque