100 People Who Are Changing the World in 2025 – The Tech Edvocate

In an era of rapid technological advancement, social upheaval, and environmental challenges, certain individuals stand out for their extraordinary contributions to shaping our world. This list highlights 100 remarkable people who are driving positive change across various sectors, from politics and technology to humanitarian work and the arts. Their innovative ideas, tireless efforts, and inspiring leadership are helping to create a better future for all of us.

Political Leaders and Activists

1. Volodymyr Zelenskyy – President of Ukraine
   As a symbol of resilience and leadership during times of crisis, Zelenskyy has galvanized global support for democracy and sovereignty.
2. Narendra Modi – Prime Minister of India
   Leading one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, Modi is shaping India’s future and its role on the global stage.
3. Claudia Sheinbaum – President of Mexico
   As Mexico’s first female president, Sheinbaum is focusing on climate change, urban sustainability, and poverty alleviation.
4. Javier Milei – President of Argentina
   Known for his unconventional style, Milei is implementing drastic reforms to address Argentina’s economic challenges.
5. Karin Keller-Sutter – President of Switzerland
   Keller-Sutter’s pragmatic approach to governance is strengthening Switzerland’s economy and environmental policies.
6. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) – U.S. Representative
   As a progressive political leader, AOC continues to shape policy debates and inspire young voters.
7. Jacinda Ardern – Former Prime Minister of New Zealand
   Though no longer in office, Ardern remains a global icon for compassionate leadership.
8. Greta Thunberg – Climate Activist
   Thunberg’s unwavering commitment to climate action continues to inspire global environmental movements.
9. Bryan Stevenson – Criminal Justice Reform Advocate
   Stevenson’s work in challenging racial discrimination in the criminal justice system is reshaping legal practices in the United States.
10. Nadia Murad – Human Rights Activist
    A Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Murad continues her advocacy for survivors of sexual violence and persecuted minorities.

Technology and Innovation Leaders

11. Elon Musk – CEO of Tesla, SpaceX, and X (formerly Twitter)
    Musk’s ventures continue to push the boundaries of electric vehicles, space exploration, and social media.
12. Sam Altman – CEO of OpenAI
    Under Altman’s leadership, OpenAI is at the forefront of artificial intelligence development, shaping the future of AI applications.
13. Jensen Huang – CEO of NVIDIA
    Huang’s leadership in AI-powered computing is revolutionizing industries from gaming to autonomous vehicles.
14. Satya Nadella – CEO of Microsoft
    Nadella’s vision is transforming Microsoft into a leader in cloud computing and AI integration.
15. Lisa Su – CEO of AMD
    Su’s leadership is driving semiconductor innovation, crucial for advancing technologies across various sectors.
16. Demis Hassabis – Co-founder and CEO of DeepMind
    Hassabis is pioneering advancements in artificial intelligence, with potential applications in scientific research and healthcare.
17. Fei-Fei Li – Co-Director of Stanford’s Human-Centered AI Institute
    Li’s work in AI ethics and human-centered AI development is shaping the responsible use of technology.
18. Boyan Slat – Founder and CEO of The Ocean Cleanup
    Slat’s innovative approach to cleaning the world’s oceans of plastic waste is making significant environmental impacts.
19. Reshma Saujani – Founder of Girls Who Code
    Saujani’s efforts to close the gender gap in technology are empowering a new generation of female coders and tech leaders.
20. Patrick Collison – Co-founder and CEO of Stripe
    Collison’s work in simplifying online payments is revolutionizing global e-commerce and financial technology.

Business and Economic Influencers

21. Kristalina Georgieva – Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund
    Georgieva’s leadership is crucial in navigating global economic challenges and promoting sustainable development.
22. Bernard Arnault – Chairman and CEO of LVMH
    As one of the world’s wealthiest individuals, Arnault’s business decisions have far-reaching impacts on global luxury markets and beyond.
23. Mary Barra – CEO of General Motors
    Barra is leading GM’s transition to electric vehicles, reshaping the automotive industry’s future.
24. Shemara Wikramanayake – CEO of Macquarie Group
    As one of the few female CEOs in global finance, Wikramanayake is driving sustainable investment strategies.
25. Dan Price – Former CEO of Gravity Payments
    Price’s advocacy for fair wages and ethical business practices continues to influence corporate culture discussions.
26. Masayoshi Son – Founder and CEO of SoftBank Group
    Son’s investment strategies in technology startups are shaping the future of various industries globally.
27. Abigail Johnson – CEO of Fidelity Investments
    Johnson’s leadership in embracing cryptocurrency and blockchain technology is influencing the future of finance.
28. Reed Hastings – Co-founder and Executive Chairman of Netflix
    Hastings’ vision continues to shape the streaming industry and global entertainment landscape.
29. Yvon Chouinard – Founder of Patagonia
    Chouinard’s decision to give away his company to fight climate change sets a new standard for corporate environmental responsibility.
30. Melanie Perkins – Co-founder and CEO of Canva
    Perkins is democratizing design through Canva, empowering millions to create professional graphics easily.

Science and Healthcare Pioneers

31. Katalin Karikó – Biochemist and mRNA Vaccine Pioneer
    Karikó’s groundbreaking work on mRNA technology continues to revolutionize vaccine development and potential cancer treatments.
32. Jennifer Doudna – Co-inventor of CRISPR Gene Editing
    Doudna’s work in gene editing is opening new frontiers in treating genetic diseases and crop improvement.
33. Emmanuelle Charpentier – Co-inventor of CRISPR Gene Editing
    Alongside Doudna, Charpentier’s contributions to CRISPR technology are reshaping genetic research and medicine.
34. Demis Hassabis – Co-founder and CEO of DeepMind
    Hassabis’s work in AI is revolutionizing scientific research, particularly in protein folding and drug discovery.
35. Özlem Türeci – Chief Medical Officer of BioNTech
    Türeci’s work in immunotherapy and mRNA vaccines continues to advance medical treatments for various diseases.
36. Uğur Şahin – CEO of BioNTech
    Alongside Türeci, Şahin’s leadership in mRNA technology is transforming vaccine development and cancer treatments.
37. Kizzmekia Corbett – Immunologist and Vaccine Researcher
    Corbett’s work on coronavirus vaccines and her advocacy for vaccine education are crucial in public health efforts.
38. David Julius – Physiologist and Nobel Laureate
    Julius’s research on the cellular mechanisms of pain sensation is paving the way for new pain management treatments.
39. Shinya Yamanaka – Stem Cell Researcher
    Yamanaka’s work on induced pluripotent stem cells continues to advance regenerative medicine and disease modeling.
40. Emmanuelle Charpentier – Microbiologist and Biochemist
    Charpentier’s ongoing research in microbiology and genetic engineering is opening new avenues in biotechnology.

Environmental Champions

41. Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim – Environmental Activist
    Ibrahim’s work bridges indigenous knowledge with science to combat climate change and preserve ecosystems.
42. Yvon Chouinard – Founder of Patagonia
    Chouinard’s decision to donate Patagonia to fight climate change sets a new standard for corporate environmental responsibility.
43. Katharine Hayhoe – Climate Scientist and Communicator
    Hayhoe’s ability to communicate climate science effectively is crucial in building public understanding and support for climate action.
44. Nemonte Nenquimo – Indigenous Environmental Activist
    Nenquimo’s leadership in protecting the Ecuadorian Amazon from oil extraction is preserving crucial ecosystems.
45. Xiuhtezcatl Martinez – Youth Climate Activist
    Martinez’s work in climate litigation and youth mobilization is shaping the future of environmental activism.
46. Inger Andersen – Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme
    Andersen’s leadership is crucial in coordinating global environmental efforts and policies.
47. Purnima Devi Barman – Conservationist
    Barman’s work in protecting the greater adjutant stork in India showcases the power of community-based conservation efforts.
48. Miranda Wang – Co-founder and CEO of Novoloop
    Wang’s innovative approach to plastic recycling is transforming waste management and circular economy practices.
49. Isatou Ceesay – Founder of Women’s Initiative The Gambia
    Ceesay’s work in recycling plastic waste and empowering women is addressing both environmental and social issues in The Gambia.
50. Tessa Khan – Climate Lawyer and Campaigner
    Khan’s legal work on climate change is setting precedents for holding governments accountable for climate action.

Social Entrepreneurs and Philanthropists

51. MacKenzie Scott – Philanthropist
    Scott’s approach to philanthropy, focusing on direct giving to underrepresented communities, is reshaping charitable practices.
52. Muhammad Yunus – Founder of Grameen Bank
    Yunus’s pioneering work in microfinance continues to empower entrepreneurs in developing countries.
53. Leila Janah – Founder of Samasource and LXMI
    Though she passed away in 2020, Janah’s work in creating dignified digital work for underserved communities continues to have impact.
54. Hamdi Ulukaya – Founder of Chobani and Tent Partnership for Refugees
    Ulukaya’s efforts in supporting refugees through employment and entrepreneurship are changing lives and business practices.
55. Jacqueline Novogratz – Founder and CEO of Acumen
    Novogratz’s patient capital approach is revolutionizing how we address poverty through sustainable, market-driven solutions.
56. Scott Harrison – Founder of charity: water
    Harrison’s innovative approach to fundraising and transparency in nonprofit work is bringing clean water to millions.
57. Leymah Gbowee – Nobel Peace Laureate and Peace Activist
    Gbowee’s work in mobilizing women for peace in Liberia continues to inspire conflict resolution efforts worldwide.
58. Tarana Burke – Founder of the #MeToo Movement
    Burke’s activism continues to drive global conversations and actions against sexual harassment and assault.
59. José Andrés – Chef and Founder of World Central Kitchen
    Andrés’s innovative approach to disaster relief through food aid is transforming humanitarian response efforts.
60. Malala Yousafzai – Education Activist and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate
    Yousafzai’s continued advocacy for girls’ education is inspiring global efforts to ensure equal access to learning opportunities.

Cultural Influencers and Artists

61. Beyoncé – Musician and Cultural Icon
    Beyoncé’s influence extends beyond music, shaping conversations on race, feminism, and social justice.
62. Ai Weiwei – Artist and Activist
    Ai’s provocative art continues to challenge political oppression and advocate for human rights globally.
63. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie – Author and Feminist
    Adichie’s writings and speeches on feminism and cultural identity are shaping global discussions on gender equality.
64. Lin-Manuel Miranda – Composer, Lyricist, and Actor
    Miranda’s innovative approach to storytelling in theater is revolutionizing the arts and bringing diverse narratives to the forefront.
65. Banksy – Street Artist
    Banksy’s anonymous yet powerful artworks continue to provoke thought on social and political issues worldwide.
66. Shonda Rhimes – Television Producer and Screenwriter
    Rhimes’s commitment to diverse representation in television is transforming the entertainment industry.
67. Bobbi Brown – Makeup Artist and Entrepreneur
    Brown’s new ventures in the beauty industry continue to promote inclusivity and natural beauty.
68. Kehinde Wiley – Visual Artist
    Wiley’s portraits challenging the traditional representations of African Americans in art are reshaping cultural narratives.
69. Yayoi Kusama – Artist
    Kusama’s immersive art installations continue to push the boundaries of contemporary art and viewer experience.
70. Laufey – Musician
    Laufey’s unique blend of jazz and pop is introducing younger generations to classic musical styles.

Educators and Thought Leaders

71. Sal Khan – Founder of Khan Academy
    Khan’s pioneering work in online education continues to democratize learning globally.
72. Esther Wojcicki – Educator and Journalist
    Wojcicki’s TRICK (Trust, Respect, Independence, Collaboration, and Kindness) approach to education is reshaping teaching methodologies.
73. Yuval Noah Harari – Historian and Author
    Harari’s insights into the future of humanity continue to influence global discussions on technology, politics, and society.
74. Angela Duckworth – Psychologist and Author
    Duckworth’s research on grit and perseverance is reshaping our understanding of success and achievement.
75. Steven Pinker – Cognitive Psychologist and Author
    Pinker’s optimistic view of human progress challenges prevailing narratives and encourages long-term thinking.
76. Brené Brown – Research Professor and Author
    Brown’s work on vulnerability and courage continues to influence personal development and leadership practices.
77. Ibram X. Kendi – Author and Antiracism Scholar
    Kendi’s framework for understanding and dismantling racism is reshaping discussions on racial equity.
78. Carol Dweck – Psychologist and Researcher
    Dweck’s work on growth mindset continues to influence education and personal development practices worldwide.
79. Hans Rosling – Statistician and Public Speaker
    Though he passed away in 2017, Rosling’s approach to understanding global development through data continues to influence policymakers and educators.
80. Jordan Peterson – Clinical Psychologist and Author
    Peterson’s controversial yet influential ideas continue to shape debates on personal responsibility and societal structures.

Sports Figures and Health Advocates

81. Simone Biles – Gymnast and Mental Health Advocate
    Biles’s openness about mental health in elite sports is changing conversations about athlete wellbeing.
82. Lewis Hamilton – Formula One Driver and Activist
    Hamilton’s advocacy for racial equality and environmental sustainability in motorsport is driving change in the industry.
83. Megan Rapinoe – Soccer Player and Equality Advocate
    Rapinoe’s outspoken stance on gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights is influencing sports and beyond.
84. LeBron James – Basketball Player and Philanthropist
    James’s off-court initiatives in education and social justice are setting new standards for athlete activism.
85. Naomi Osaka – Tennis Player and Mental Health Advocate
    Osaka’s candid discussions about mental health are changing how the sports world approaches player wellbeing.
86. Colin Kaepernick – Former NFL Player and Civil Rights Activist
    Kaepernick’s continued activism against racial injustice is inspiring movements beyond the sports world.
87. Rahul Dravid – Former Cricketer and Coach
    Dravid’s approach to coaching and mentoring is shaping the future of cricket in India and inspiring young athletes.
88. Allyson Felix – Track and Field Athlete and Maternal Health Advocate
    Felix’s advocacy for maternal health rights in sports is changing policies and perceptions.
89. Marcus Rashford – Soccer Player and Anti-Poverty Campaigner
    Rashford’s campaign against child food poverty in the UK has influenced government policy and raised awareness.
90. Aly Raisman – Former Gymnast and Advocate for Sexual Abuse Survivors
    Raisman’s advocacy for survivors of sexual abuse is driving reforms in sports organizations and beyond.

Humanitarian Workers and Community Leaders

91. Eatizaz Yousif – IRC Sudan Country Director
    Yousif’s leadership in providing critical support to displaced Sudanese families showcases the power of local humanitarian efforts.
92. Rowida Al-Sabbah – IRC Nutrition Officer in Gaza
    Al-Sabbah’s work in treating and preventing malnutrition among children in Gaza is crucial in the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
93. Maryam – Urban Planner from Afghanistan
    Maryam’s efforts in mentoring and educating Afghan women in architecture and urban planning are creating opportunities amidst challenging circumstances.
94. Claire Babineaux-Fontenot – CEO of Feeding America
    Babineaux-Fontenot’s leadership is crucial in addressing food insecurity across the United States.
95. Fatou Baldeh – Gambian Women’s Rights Activist
    Baldeh’s work in advocating for women’s rights in Gambia is driving social change and empowerment.
96. Raquel Willis – Activist and Author
    Willis’s advocacy for transgender rights and racial justice is shaping important conversations and policies.
97. Laura Modi – Co-founder and CEO of Bobbie
    Modi’s work in providing organic infant formula is addressing crucial needs in infant nutrition.
98. Gisèle Pelicot – Voice for Survivors of Sexual Violence
    Pelicot’s advocacy is bringing attention to the needs and rights of sexual violence survivors.
99. Samia – IRC Psychologist in Syria
    Samia’s work in providing mental health support to displaced people in Syria is crucial for post-crisis recovery.
100. Dick Schoof – Prime Minister of the Netherlands
     Schoof’s commitment to social welfare and economic policies aimed at improving quality of life showcases the impact of compassionate leadership.

Conclusion

These 100 individuals represent a diverse array of fields and backgrounds, each contributing uniquely to shaping our world. From political leaders and tech innovators to environmental champions and humanitarian workers, their collective efforts are driving progress in addressing global challenges. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, these changemakers inspire us with their vision, dedication, and impact.

Their stories remind us that positive change is possible through innovation, perseverance, and compassion. As we look to the future, it’s clear that the actions of individuals can have far-reaching effects, influencing policies, technologies, and social norms that will define the coming decades. By recognizing and supporting such impactful work, we all play a part in creating a better world for future generations.