As 2025 begins, the world is looking to leaders who don’t just follow trends—they create them. These are the individuals turning big ideas into real change, inspiring others with their actions, and tackling challenges head-on. Whether they’re revolutionizing industries, advocating for a better planet, or empowering communities, these leaders are shaping the future in ways that matter. This list isn’t just about influence—it’s about impact. So, who are the people to watch this year? Let’s dive in and meet the Top 10 Influential Leaders of 2025
Georgina Goodwin
Georgina Anne Goodwin (born April 18, 1978, in Nairobi, Kenya) is an award-winning documentary photographer and the founder/producer of GGImages Media Agency. Georgina has over 20 years of experience capturing the essence of nature and social issues across Africa. Her notable works include coverage of Kenya’s post-election violence, cancer in Kenya, and the refugee crisis in Africa - her image of 30-second-old refugee baby Marion won the 2019 British Journal of Photography Portrait of Humanity Award.
As a certified Canon Trainer and former Canon Ambassador, Georgina has earned recognition for her contributions to photography. She has spoken at TEDx events twice, and is a mentor for the Vital Impacts Environmental Photography Mentorship Program and World Press Photo Global 6x6 Talent Program. She is also committed to mentoring and empowering African storytellers through her agency, GGImages Media.
Georgina’s work and clients include prestigious publications like the NY Times, Elle Magazine and Agence France-Presse and exhibited in iconic locations such as Times Square (NYC), The Louvre (Paris), Tokyo (Japan) and Bogotá (Colombia). Her book Window To The World offers a glimpse into her remarkable photographic journey. Now a mother of two, Georgina continues to inspire both through her work and her efforts to elevate the voices of African photographers and storytellers.
Kate Denise
Kate Denise is a highly respected medical aesthetician who is recognized for her exceptional skill in delivering advanced skincare treatments and offering expert advice. With over a decade of experience, she is known for providing personalized, results-driven care using the latest technologies and evidence-based techniques. Specializing in treatments ranging from laser therapy to medical-grade facials, Kate tailors her services to meet the unique needs of each client, ensuring optimal outcomes.
As a trusted leader in the aesthetics industry, she has built a loyal following through her educational platforms, where she shares valuable skincare tips, product recommendations, and insights on maintaining healthy, youthful skin. Kate's continuous pursuit of excellence and her ability to stay ahead of industry trends make her a forward-thinking leader to watch in 2025. Her influence in shaping skincare standards and empowering individuals with effective solutions positions her as a key figure in the field. Kate can be found on Instagram @Kate.Medical.Aesthetician and has offices across New York City and Long Island.
Megan Marie
Megan Marie is a dynamic talent agent, international runway model, actress, fashion designer, and CEO of MM Talent Agency. Standing at 5’8”, Megan has graced the world’s most prestigious runways and showcased her creative vision as a designer. She also serves as an ambassador for the Marilyn Monroe Campaign, seamlessly blending timeless elegance with modern influence.
As a skilled PR and marketing specialist, Megan uses her expertise to elevate talents and brands, helping them achieve their full potential. Her multifaceted career reflects her passion, determination, and significant impact on the fashion and entertainment industries.
Kim Crabill
Nationally recognized speaker Kim Crabill is an award-winning TV host, literary award-winning author, Board-certified Christian counselor, and President of Roses and Rainbows Ministry, Inc. Her passion is to bring God's hope and healing to hearts and homes worldwide.
Kim’s award-winning TV program, "COFFEE with Kim,” is a testimonial-talk show which airs on over 100 networks, reaching millions of homes daily. COFFEE stands for “Conversations Of Friends of Faith to Encourage and Equip.”
Kim is the author of numerous books, several of which are winners of Christian Literary Awards, including her signature work, “Burdens to Blessings: Discovering the Power of Your Story.” What Kim finds most amazing is a God who found her devastatingly broken and redeemed her through His transforming love. Though her ministry’s media programming and written curriculums has the potential to reach over 600 million people daily, Kim states, "I will not be satisfied until every person feels rescued by God's love and empowered by His purpose."
For more information on Kim Crabill and her ministry, please visit www.kimcrabill.org and kimcrabillofficial on Instagram.
Jason Hancock
Jason Hancock is the founder of Special Beauty, an organization that gives individuals with special needs a place to shine. An American living in Japan, Jason has over 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry, spanning stage, screen, radio, and television. “I know how amazing it feels to be in the spotlight and to feel like a star. For those with special needs, Special Beauty is that place,” he says.
Patterned after a traditional beauty pageant, participants are paired with glam squads, students from local beauty colleges, who help them look and feel their best on stage. They answer an interview question and all receive awards. “After chasing the spotlight for so many years, I never imagined it would be this gratifying to create a space for someone else to shine,” Jason adds.
Jason came to Japan at 19 as a volunteer and fell in love with the culture, people, and language. A graduate of Brigham Young University–Hawaii (2000), he worked as an English teacher in Fukushima before winning the 2001 National Japanese Speech Competition. In 2024, he spoke at the UN on World Down Syndrome Day and at the World Down Syndrome Congress. Jason hopes to bring Special Beauty worldwide.
Irene Kirabo Nakitende
Irene Kirabo Nakitende is a dedicated advocate for social justice, blending philanthropy, psychology, and public policy to drive change. Pursuing a multidisciplinary undergraduate degree in Psychology, Aerospace, Legal Studies, and Political Science, she addresses societal challenges with a deep understanding of human behavior, policy frameworks, and justice. As the founder of Different Better With A Purpose, Irene empowers women, girls, and marginalized communities in Uganda through advocacy, education, and development initiatives. Her notable efforts include promoting menstrual literacy, providing reusable sanitary pads, and organizing workshops on sexual reproductive health and rights.
A passionate advocate, Irene draws inspiration from seeing systemic injustices and the resilience of marginalized groups. Her ultimate goal is to pursue advanced studies in public policy and contribute to global change through platforms like the United Nations.
Notably, Irene is a beauty queen, holding the title of Miss Uganda Rising Woman 2016- 2017, Mentor, and role model deeply passionate about inspiring positive change and addressing inequality globally. She is a commercial model and an award-winning Rising Star 2019 awarded by Reach A Hand Uganda. Driven by compassion and a belief in the transformative power of education and advocacy, Irene is committed to inspiring positive change and addressing inequality on a global scale.
Ana Flores
Ana Flores is the driving force behind Keller Williams Roatan, blending passion, expertise, and a deep love for the Bay Islands. Originally from San Pedro Sula, Ana relocated to Roatan in 2008, captivated by its serene beauty and small-town charm. Armed with a degree in Marketing and International Business, she began her journey as Marketing Director for one of the island's top resorts. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to launch a travel agency, a property management company, and co-found LUANCO, a thriving construction business.
In her pursuit of excellence, Ana transitioned into real estate, where she became one of Roatan’s top-performing agents for seven consecutive years. Her success and vision culminated in acquiring the Keller Williams franchise for the Bay Islands, where she is redefining the real estate experience. Ana’s career is a testament to her commitment to innovation, professionalism, and her unwavering dedication to shaping Roatan’s real estate landscape.
George Meressa
George Meressa is a highly skilled and experienced digital advertiser who has a strong entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for helping businesses succeed on Amazon. With over a decade of experience in the field, George has a wealth of knowledge and expertise in various advertising platforms.
In 2011 George founded his own advertising agency, Clear Ads. Despite the constantly evolving advertising industry, George and his team have remained successful by continually learning and growing. George found a niche in the market for Amazon advertising, and through sheer determination and commitment, Clear Ads has become a well-respected and in-demand advertising agency and has been given the prestigious Amazon Verified Partnership status from Amazon. Since then Clear Ads has empowered hundreds of businesses to achieve their potential through Amazon PPC and DSP advertising.
George is now a world renowned speaker at international Amazon events such as the Billion Dollar Seller Summit, where he shares his industry knowledge and expertise with others; distinguishing himself and Clear Ads from other Amazon advertising agencies. In addition, George has his own documentary series on YouTube called “The Man Behind The Brand”, which documents his journey as a business owner and highlights his passion for Clear Ads.
Claudio Gambin
Claudio Gambin continues to blaze a trail in the world of finance and business consulting. After graduating from the University of Central Florida, Claudio started as an intern in the financial services business and quickly fell in love with the work. He became a full-time Financial Advisor in 2010 and went on to open his own firm, GFG Solutions, in 2018. Through years of working with business owners and entrepreneurs, Claudio realized his passion and specialty for helping those clients in the areas of risk management, cumulative tax planning, estate distribution strategies and business transfer planning. GFG Solutions exists to bring peace of mind, clarity, and happiness to clients who own and manage businesses. Claudio continues to help business owners all over the world move from relationship value to enterprise value.
Myrte Scheffer
Myrte is the Founder of GameChangers United (on- and offline and as a Podcast) for entrepreneurs and organizations on a social mission. She helps fondly known ‘Impact Players’ such as, director of the National Football Association, Pepsi Cola, Mercedes-Benz and global entrepreneurs on a social mission, to create an authentic, sustainable and successful business.
In her upcoming book “Return to Self”, she describes her own transformational journey with her multi-disabled sister, losing her in 2017, losing her twin babies in 2020 and drawing the inspiration from experiences to seize growth. A well-sought global speaker, Myrte speaks about social business and how to transform personal tribulations into a professional power for others.
Final Thoughts
The future isn’t just something we step into—it’s something that visionary leaders create. These Top 10 Influential Leaders of 2025 are more than just names; they’re catalysts for progress, pioneers of innovation, and champions of transformation. As they tackle global challenges with bold ideas and fearless determination, their work reminds us of the power of leadership to inspire hope and drive meaningful change. As we watch their journeys unfold, one thing is certain: the world is in for an exciting and transformative year ahead, thanks to these extraordinary individuals.