Building the Next Generation of Leaders: Julianna Burns, YPN Member of the Year

The Young Professionals Network (YPN) Member of the Year Award honors a member of the YPN who demonstrates exceptional leadership, initiative, and commitment to advancing the real estate profession. This year’s recipient, Julianna Burns, REALTOR® with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty, exemplifies the spirit of the award through her unwavering commitment to mentorship, service, and professional excellence. Chosen from a YPN network of over 500 members, Burns shares that the recognition came as a genuine surprise, and she feels deeply grateful for the support of those who nominated her.

Approaching ten years as a Florida REALTOR®, Burns has built her career on consistency, perseverance, and a genuine desire to help people during one of the biggest decisions of their lives. Starting as a young agent in a field where experience often speaks louder than enthusiasm came with challenges, including earning trust, navigating assumptions, and finding her footing among seasoned professionals. She credits these early obstacles with shaping her into a prepared, empathetic, and service-focused professional committed to growing through every experience.

Her dedication has translated into achievements she is proud of. The last couple of years, Julianna has ranked in the top 14% of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty, and this year she advanced even further, earning a place in the top 9% of the company. She views these milestones not simply as personal successes but as reflections of the trust her clients place in her and the support she has received from colleagues, mentors, and leadership throughout her journey.

Service has always been a guiding principle for Julianna. She volunteers regularly with fundraisers, local initiatives, and charitable programs both within RASM and throughout the community. Her involvement with YPN, however, holds a special place in her heart. As the 2025 YPN Chair, she focused on creating an inclusive environment where young professionals could gain confidence, build relationships, and learn from one another. Julianna feels lucky to have met so many inspiring “go-getters” through the network and believes those connections have profoundly shaped her career. To her, the recognition symbolizes not just personal accomplishment, but the collective spirit of YPN: driven individuals supporting one another, celebrating each other’s wins, and uplifting the next generation of real estate leaders.

She is quick to acknowledge that her path has never been one she walked alone. Julianna expresses deep gratitude for the mentors who invested their time and wisdom, the colleagues who encouraged her, and the peers within YPN who pushed her to grow. She credits these individuals with helping her navigate challenges, celebrate wins, and stay grounded in her purpose. Their support, she says, has been one of the greatest gifts of her career.

Looking ahead, Julianna is honored to be stepping into a new chapter of leadership as a member of the 2026 RASM Board of Directors, an achievement she has been working toward for several years. She hopes to continue strengthening the bridge between young professionals and leadership roles within the Association, ensuring the next generation has the guidance, visibility, and support they need to succeed.

Beyond real estate, Julianna is deeply involved with Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, serving on the President’s Advisory Council for the new Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) since 2022. Her work includes connecting community partners, advocating for the organization’s mission, and supporting education-focused outreach efforts. Being recognized with the YPN award while preparing to be installed as a RASM Board of Director at the brand-new Mote SEA location feels, to her, like a meaningful affirmation that she is aligned with the work she is meant to be doing.

The YPN Member of the Year Award highlights individuals who uplift others through service, authenticity, and leadership. Julianna remains grateful for every person and every opportunity that helped shape her path, and she is excited for the work still ahead.

Read more about all of RASM's 2025 Award winners at www.myrasm.com/elevate-magazine/