The Ultimate List of 10 Influential People to Watch in 2024: Leading Change in Business, Technology, and Society
In 2024, a new wave of visionary leaders is shaping the future across a diverse range of industries. These people are redefining boundaries, breaking through barriers, and setting new standards of innovation, influence, and impact. From pioneering entrepreneurs and creators to changemakers driving cultural shifts, these ten influential individuals stand out for their unwavering passion, creativity, and commitment to making a difference.
As they continue to rise, their influence resonates far beyond their fields, sparking inspiration and change on a global scale. Join us as we explore the stories behind their success, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the profound impact they are making in today’s fast-paced world.
These are the people to watch in 2024—leading us into the future with their vision and drive.
1. Brandi Love
Brandi Love, a prominent figure in the adult entertainment industry, has navigated her career with resilience and strategic foresight. Reflecting on her journey, Love highlights overcoming early financial missteps and bankruptcy through disciplined investing. Now, as she enters the third year of her 10-year plan, she is excited about the upcoming launch of Princess Eve and further ventures into commercial real estate.
Love’s commitment extends beyond her career; she is dedicated to mental health advocacy, influenced by her family’s legacy of dealing with depression. She and her husband, Chris, are also embracing a nature-centric lifestyle, investing in sustainable living and securing residency in Greece. Balancing her public persona with personal interests, Love demonstrates that success requires both passion and discipline. Her story is one of perseverance and authenticity, promising continued inspiration and impact.
2. Sarah Irvin
Sarah Irvin’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2015 when she founded Quick Tan Sunless. Her motivation was deeply personal; her newborn daughter was in the NICU, and Sarah needed a flexible career that would allow her to be present for every milestone. Quick Tan Sunless quickly grew, gaining over 2,000 clients across three states. Beyond her business success, Sarah’s commitment to empowering others is evident in her training of hundreds of women to start their own sunless tanning businesses.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Sarah launched a coaching business to help women from various fields start or scale their ventures. This initiative further showcased her dedication to sharing the strategies that led to her own success. Sarah’s impact didn’t stop there; she co-founded the EmpowHER Women’s Summit, fostering a community of strong, supportive women. The inaugural summit in Knoxville, TN, was a resounding success, setting the stage for future events.
Additionally, Sarah is a founding partner of the Unstoppable app, a platform designed to connect and uplift women entrepreneurs. Her journey from a personal crisis to entrepreneurial success serves as a testament to resilience and community support. Through her various initiatives, Sarah Irvin continues to help women realize their potential and build successful careers, embodying the spirit of empowerment and determination.
3. Maddison Violet
Nestled in British Columbia, Ve Oh Lay Acres Winery epitomizes Maddison Violet’s journey from barback to esteemed winemaker. Trained by the Wine Spirit Education Trust, Maddison earned the IWSC/WSET Future 50 under 40 award for her dedication and expertise. Her global education, from Vancouver to UC Davis, honed her skills.
Established in under a decade, Ve Oh Lay Acres blends tradition with innovation. Maddison and Laurent’s diverse wines, from grapes to honey, have earned accolades, including the Global Recognition Award and Best Winery in Summerland. Named after the couple, the winery symbolizes their fusion of tradition and experimentation. Ve Oh Lay Acres thrives as Maddison’s journey showcases the power of passion, innovation, and excellence in winemaking.
4. Liana Reznik
Liana Reznik, the visionary founder of Fancy Shmancy Permanent Makeup Clinic, is dedicated to restoring confidence and empowering women through the transformative art of paramedical tattooing. Specializing in procedures that enhance and restore natural beauty, particularly for individuals who have experienced trauma or medical conditions, Liana brings a deep passion for helping others to her work. Her expertise and commitment to excellence have earned her a respected position in the beauty industry.
In addition to her professional skills, Liana’s commitment to education plays a significant role in her success. She continuously seeks to expand her knowledge and shares it with others, inspiring both aspiring artists and her clients. Liana’s journey of resilience, compassion, and hard work has left a lasting impact on the beauty and wellness landscape, as she continues to bring empowerment and healing to everyone who visits her clinic.
5. Rachael Madori
Rachael Madori’s journey from adult film stardom to becoming a triple-certified sommelier is a remarkable story of resilience and transformation. After achieving success in the adult entertainment industry, Madori sought new paths that would allow her to channel her creativity and passion into a different field. Her dedication to wine education led her to become a highly respected sommelier, demonstrating her ability to reinvent herself and succeed in a demanding industry. Madori’s expertise and knowledge in the world of wine set her apart as a trailblazer.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Rachael Madori is deeply committed to making a social impact. Through her pioneering venture, The High End, she explores non-alcoholic experiences and advocates for suicide prevention, highlighting her dedication to mental health awareness. Her memoir, Signed, Not Loved, shares a powerful message of hope and healing, inspiring readers around the world with her story of personal growth and overcoming adversity.
6. Jessica Di Giacomo
Jessica Di Giacomo, widely recognized as Tax Deed Jade, has quickly risen to prominence in the world of tax deed investing. Known for her innovative strategies and dynamic approach to wealth creation, she has transformed a traditionally complex field into an accessible opportunity for individuals from all walks of life. Through her business ventures, Di Giacomo simplifies the process of tax deed investing, making it attainable for those seeking financial independence. Her success is driven by a passion for helping others unlock new financial possibilities and take control of their futures.
In addition to her expertise in tax deed investing, Di Giacomo is a dedicated advocate for financial literacy and empowerment. She offers education and mentorship to aspiring investors, demystifying the world of wealth building with a focus on actionable knowledge. By equipping individuals with the tools and confidence to succeed, Di Giacomo has solidified her position as a leading figure in the entrepreneurial landscape.
7. Hensi Jacobson
Hensi Jacobson’s journey as an entrepreneur is built on the belief that skincare is more than just a routine—it’s a mindful practice of self-care and self-love. With her venture, 7 Skincare, Jacobson has redefined beauty routines by offering meticulously crafted self-care kits designed to restore skin health and radiance. Her products are thoughtfully formulated to nourish the skin while promoting the deeper message of embracing self-love through consistent care. This holistic approach to beauty has helped her carve a unique space in the skincare industry.
What truly sets Jacobson apart is her unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and luxury without compromise. Every product in the 7 Skincare line reflects her dedication to eco-conscious choices, ensuring that high-quality skincare can coexist with environmental responsibility. As a visionary leader in the beauty industry, Jacobson continues to inspire others by merging luxury with sustainability, offering a truly innovative approach to skincare and self-care.
8. Dina El-Mofty
Dina El-Mofty stands as a guiding light in the realms of entrepreneurship and wellness advocacy, leaving an indelible mark through her commitment to empowerment and holistic well-being. Her journey, characterized by resilience and dedication, embodies the transformative power of purpose-driven endeavors.
As the founder of INJAZ Egypt, Dina embarked on a mission to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset among youth.Through innovative programs and mentorship opportunities, she equipped students with the practical skills and confidence needed to navigate the complexities of the modern world. Dina’s vision extended beyond mere education; it was about empowering individuals to realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society.
9. Wynonna
Wynonna Judd isn’t afraid to explore the depths of life. A Grammy-winning, multi-platinum artist, Judd has been a global superstar for over four decades—both as part of the iconic duo The Judds with her mother Naomi, and in her solo career. Despite the constant public scrutiny, from the tabloid-heavy 1980s and ‘90s to today’s digital age, Wynonna has found solace in self-reflection. “I’m into 25 years of recovery, and the introspective is my favorite thing,” she shares, citing her experiences with programs like Onsite, AA meetings, and Bible studies. In this interview, no topic was off-limits, including her upbringing in the spotlight and the tragic loss of her mother to suicide in 2022. Wynonna’s ability to go deep with herself and others has solidified her as both relatable and real, on and off the stage.
Wynonna’s candidness reveals a woman who has found strength through adversity. She credits her emotional intelligence to growing up with two addicted parents, and how early on she had to learn how to soothe herself. Rather than her success, Wynonna finds meaning in her mistakes and life lessons, often drawing from personal experiences to fuel her music. Her song “Broken and Blessed” includes the line “I’m somewhere between hell and hallelujah,” a phrase that resonates deeply with her audience. As she approaches her 60th birthday, Wynonna reflects on her life philosophy: learning from failure, letting go of the past, and focusing on the present. Living with grace, both in her music and her personal life, Wynonna offers hope and authenticity to everyone who listens to her story.
10. Maneet Chauhan
Maneet Chauhan’s culinary journey is rooted in her passion for food and her desire to connect cultures through cuisine. Born in Punjab, India, she moved to the U.S. to study at the Culinary Institute of America and went on to work as an executive chef in New York City and Chicago. In 2014, Chauhan and her husband co-founded Morph Hospitality Group and opened Chauhan Ale & Masala House in Nashville, blending Indian flavors with Southern traditions. Her innovative approach has made a significant impact on the city’s dining scene.
A James Beard Award winner and Chopped judge, Chauhan is a trailblazer in the culinary world. She believes in the power of food to unite people and takes pride in combining her Indian heritage with Nashville’s local flavors. Chauhan’s story of success, resilience, and community continues to inspire chefs and food lovers alike across the world.
