The city of Chicago has always been a city built by visionaries. The type of leaders that do not just follow trends but set them. It is a place where vision and ambition meet action, where the rise of the next generation of changemakers is second nature. And on a night that was filled with some of the brightest minds in business, sports and the world of entertainment, one name stood out the most that day: Nadia Rawlinson.

Nadia Rawlins is no stranger to high-powered positions. She has served as the Chief People Officer at Slack and has held executive positions at Live Nation, and now she is making waves as the Operating Chairman in Chicago Sky. Taking that role, she put her mind to developing Women’s basketball and ensuring that Women’s basketball in Chicago got the respect and attention it deserved.

The Crain’s 2025 Emerging Leader of the Year ceremony was more than just an award show. It was more like a celebration of impact, leadership and the kind of influence that doesn’t just push barriers, it erases them entirely. On a night that was outlined by greatness altogether, Dwayne Wade, basketball legend and the partner at Chicago Sky with Nadia, presented her the award. While presenting the award, he said “Nadia is proof that leadership isn’t just about making decisions—it’s about inspiring people to dream bigger.” Further, he posted a story on Instagram, congratulating his partner, he captioned it, “Well deserved.” Congratulating his partner.

Dwayne Wade and Nadia Rawlinson joined forces to uplift the scenario surrounding women’s basketball. While people would think that Nadia and Dwayne Wade come from different worlds, but there is more in common than we think. Let us know more.

A Collaboration For Success: Nadia Rawlison and Dwayne Wade

One may think, Nadia built her career in executive boardrooms, while Dwayne Wade dazzled and dominated on the hardwood. But if we dig a little deeper, their paths are very similar and they converged in their joint venture. They are both deeply connected to Chicago, they have invested in the city’s growing sports culture and both are born leaders that understand the importance of it beyond personal success.

Dwayne Wade, who is a former Chicago Bulls star and now a part-owner of the WNBA’s Chicago Sky has been a longstanding vocal advocate for women’s basketball, and Rawlinson’s role as the operating chairman of the Chicago Sky aligns perfectly with that mission. The commitment they share to growing the game and creating opportunities for women in sports made Dwayne Wade the perfect individual to present the award.

In the end, the night wrapped up with laughter and toasts, and the kind of networking that happens only when the best and the brightest of the city are in the same room. But one thing wsas clear, Nadia was not just an emerging leader, she is already leading and she is only getting started. So, Chicago, take note. This is just the beginning of something wonderful.