June 25, 2024

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Graham Westra, the director of real estate for Midwest Fidelity Partners.

Name: Graham Westra

Age: 24

Hometown: Sioux Falls

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

I was born and raised here for most of my life. For a while, my family lived in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, which had its perks but nothing comparable to Sioux Falls — hence why we’re back!

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

The opportunity to make a difference, the quality of life, strong sense of community and the economic opportunities are unique. People from all over want to come here, and Sioux Falls does a great job at finding new ways to keep people around or bring them back to their roots.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

Problem-solving is what I love. Each day brings a new set of challenges, whether it’s positive or negative, and making sure the task or job is executed to the best of my ability is always rewarding. Not everything is going to go in the right direction or end up how we anticipate, but finding ways to maneuver and execute never gets old — especially if there’s a large reward at the end!

How did you get connected to your industry?

It all started when I was just 16 years old, looking for more ways to make additional income in high school on top of the side hustles I had going on. I applied for a job at Silverstar Car Wash, where I worked in high school on nights, weekends and summers, which evolved into a two-time college internship, then eventually a full-time position straight out of college. This didn’t happen overnight, that’s for sure! I’ve always had a strong passion for the automotive industry but didn’t think it would be here. And I wouldn’t change it for the world!

I think it’s important, especially for the younger generation, including myself, to be willing to try new things and accept change. I’ve always heard if you wait around for something to fall into your lap, it’s probably never going to happen. Take action, and make it happen, whether you’re comfortable or not. Eventually, that happiness and reward will come.

Describe your workplace in three words.

Always taking action.

What is something someone might be surprised to learn about you?

I’m an avid outdoorsman. I have a huge passion for fishing and hunting. I love traveling to Florida and fishing, or traveling the state going after various wild game. Don’t let the suit and tie fool you.

What’s your favorite way to give back to your community?

I have a huge heart for law enforcement and our servicemen and women – locally and nationally. During the summer, I help lead the Lincoln County Sheriff golf tournament, which brings together like-minded individuals and businesses to golf and thank our local law enforcement. It’s a great fundraiser!

What’s one business you’d like to see in Sioux Falls that isn’t here now?

I’d love to say on here, but if I did so, someone might beat me to it! Work hard in silence; let your success be your noise.

If you had $1 million to start a business, what kind of business would it be?

A private real estate and health care development firm.