Inside the Jury Room: Ilana Seleznev on Judging Through a Female Entrepreneur's Lens

I believe knowledge should be shared, especially in today's world. That belief is what motivates me most. I also enjoy sharing the methods and tools I have developed throughout my career. Share, share, and share!

One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is meeting new people and sharing knowledge. Every conversation offers an opportunity to exchange ideas, learn from different perspectives, and contribute to the growth of others while continuing to grow myself.

In my opinion, objectivity is the most important quality of a juror. Every entry deserves to be reviewed with care and respect, which means taking the time to understand each submission and its accompanying explanation in full. Every concept, idea, and business has its own value, and it is our responsibility to evaluate each one fairly, thoughtfully, and without bias.

I first consider the purpose behind the business. What value does it create? Who is it intended for? What is the thinking behind the work, and how does it contribute to the world? Above all, I look for ideas that bring something innovative, meaningful, and distinctive—work that creates a positive impact beyond its immediate purpose.

Evaluating someone's work—and especially having to reject it—is one of the most challenging aspects of being a juror. Every submission represents significant time, effort, and passion, so I believe each one deserves to be reviewed thoughtfully, respectfully, and with genuine care.

I dedicate at least two hours each day to reading and learning about new developments across a variety of fields, with a particular focus on technology and design. Staying informed helps me broaden my perspective and continuously refine my thinking.

I am good at managing my schedule and staying organized. I like to plan my time carefully, set aside dedicated review sessions, and assess each nomination without rushing!

As an experienced juror, I believe fairness begins with integrity. I stay true to my professional judgment while approaching every nomination with an open mind and the same level of respect. I strive to uphold high ethical standards, remain objective, and evaluate each entry on its own merits rather than personal preferences. These principles have guided me throughout my career and continue to shape every decision I make as a juror.

I try not to focus on my personal preferences when evaluating a nomination. Instead, I consider the broader perspective and what the work offers to its intended audience or the industry as a whole. Whether I personally like something or not should never influence my judgment.

I believe setting aside personal taste is essential to ensuring every entry is assessed fairly, objectively, and on its own merits.