Influence is not just about success—it’s about creating impact, inspiring others, and shaping the future. In Meet the Top 10 Influential Entrepreneurs of 2025, we highlight visionary leaders whose work is transforming industries and redefining what it means to lead in today’s fast-paced world.
These entrepreneurs have turned bold ideas into thriving ventures, leveraging innovation and determination to solve challenges and seize opportunities. Their journeys are marked by resilience, creativity, and a relentless drive to make a difference, not just in business but in society as a whole.
Kimberly Kathleen
In the crowded world of business consulting, where many claim to have the “secret” to success, Kimberly Kathleen stands out as a true game changer. As the CEO and Founder of Empowerment Through Entrepreneurship, LLC, Kimberly is redefining success with her unique blend of mindset transformation, strategic planning, and actionable tactics. Her mission? To help entrepreneurs move from where they are now to where they want to be.
Kimberly’s approach is anything but one-size-fits-all. Kimberly and her team take a highly personalized and intimate approach, creating strategies that align with each client’s specific goals—whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur launching a new business or a corporate executive leading a billion-dollar enterprise.
Her services go beyond traditional business consulting. Kimberly ensures your company grows ethically, covering everything from financial planning and exit strategies to leadership development and content production. Her empowerment coaching opens up hidden potential by assisting clients in overcoming psychological barriers and self-doubt. She believes that true development combines professional success and personal fulfillment.
With over 25 years of experience, a series of industry honors, and collaborations with high-profile groups like the John Maxwell Team, Kimberly has built a reputation for authenticity. Her 99% referral-based model speaks volumes about the trust and lasting impact she creates, as her approach centers around making meaningful, sustainable changes rather than chasing flashy contracts.
Are you ready to unlock your full potential and take your business to new heights? Partner with Kimberly Kathleen and Empowerment Through Entrepreneurship, LLC, and start your journey toward sustainable success and personal growth today.
Maya Odeh
At 18, most people are still figuring out their future, but Maya Odeh was busy building her empire. By the age of 22, this self-made CEO had already revolutionized the digital marketing landscape through her company, Marketing Legend. Maya’s journey is a true testament to the power of purpose, proving that age and experience are just numbers when you’re driven by passion.
Starting out, Maya faced a number of challenges—her age, lack of experience, and tough competition. But rather than being discouraged, she channeled her passion for helping businesses grow into actionable results. Today, Marketing Legend is a thriving, full-service agency with a talented team of professionals working to help clients succeed.
What sets Marketing Legend apart is Maya’s focus on personalized, outcome-driven strategies that foster growth. Whether a startup looking to make a splash or an established brand aiming for expansion, her agency has the tools and knowledge to deliver.
Maya’s vision extends beyond growing her own business—she’s dedicated to creating positive change. She works with nonprofit organizations to expand their reach and mentors young entrepreneurs, helping them find their footing in the business world. Her entrepreneurial achievements have earned her recognition as a young business leader, and her story continues to inspire others, showing that when driven by purpose, age and experience are mere numbers.
If you’re looking to elevate your brand, Marketing Legend offers tailored solutions that will help you achieve your goals and unlock potential you never imagined possible.
Lakshmi Natarajan
In the fast-paced world of business and global leadership, few individuals embody the power of transformation like Lakshmi Natarajan. With over 20 years of experience guiding Fortune 500 companies, startups, and international markets across 60 countries, she has become a leader in driving impactful change.
As the founder of Excelador, a boutique management consulting firm, Lakshmi helps companies inspire their teams with people focused leadership strategies, increase revenue through customer centric go-to-market execution, and implement global programs. Her collaborative and inclusive leadership style has consistently delivered results, enabling organizations to navigate ever-changing markets. She currently also serves as Head of Change Management at ForeOptics and is a Board Member of the India-US Chamber of Commerce.
Lakshmi graduated from the University of Pennsylvania, a foundation that has greatly contributed to her success in the corporate and entrepreneurial world. Her impact goes beyond her work with corporations and startups. She is also the visionary founder of Travel Plus Them, a groundbreaking platform designed to help children develop cultural awareness through international travel, at home learning experiences, and giving back to local communities.
With a track record of outstanding global corporate leadership and entrepreneurial success, She has shared her expertise in Forbes print magazine, Medium, and is a member of CREW, an invite-only exclusive network for senior leaders. With a passion for empowering others, she continues to inspire and lead with purpose, showing that success is not just measured by profits, but by the impact we have on the world around us.
With managing various ventures, Lakshmi’s ability to excel in both is a testament to her skill, resilience, and unwavering dedication. Through her leadership and vision, she is changing the business landscape and shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
Kwabena Slaughter
Kwabena Slaughter: artist, engineer, scholar—a true renaissance mind, mastering every craft he touches. With a unique ability to think outside the box, he has redefined the world of art and photography, challenging fundamental concepts and creating new paradigms.
Kwabena’s mission isn’t fame; it’s impact. Rather than chasing the spotlight, he’s driven by a deep desire to make meaningful contributions to society. This vision is exemplified in his groundbreaking dance project, where dancers’ movements activate technological systems, blending art with innovation in ways never seen before.
Beyond the studio, Kwabena explores how design and technology shape our perception of the world. One of his most intriguing ideas centers around the camera lens: a round lens that captures the world but prints memories on rectangular paper—two shapes coming together to challenge our understanding of art and perception. His work encourages society that we are able to do much more than what meets the eye.
Kwabena’s impact is far-reaching, with published works in Critical Inquiry, Black Perspectives, and Journal of Popular Music Studies. He’s earned Bronze Telly Awards in 2021 for his role in the #ByGrace Live Chat Series and had his creative direction featured at Arena Stage in D.C. His work with the Next Wave Festival at the Brooklyn Academy of Music cements his status as a visionary artist.
When he isn’t fully immersed in photography and dance, Kwabena devotes himself to writing thought-provoking essays on African American history and the theoretical frameworks of human communication. For him, a picture-perfect life is not the goal—it’s the journey, the imperfections, and the constant evolution that truly matter.
Natasha Brito
Natasha Brito is a powerhouse in the world of digital marketing, brand development, and music industry growth. As the founder and CEO of AUSTERE, Artist House, and FNDR House, she is reshaping how musicians, creators, and entrepreneurs engage with their audiences and scale their brands.
At AUSTERE, Natasha and her team craft impactful campaigns with a “visuals-first” approach, ensuring that every strategy is driven by engaging content. Specializing in organic and paid social media marketing, content creation, and digital advertising, they help clients “find their fandom.” With a track record of generating over 40 million followers and more than 1 billion video views, AUSTERE’s efforts have directly contributed to millions in sales.
Beyond her agency, Natasha is dedicated to helping musicians and creators thrive with Artist House and FNDR House. Artist House offers a range of courses and coaching to help musicians build their brand and grow their careers, while FNDR House provides the same tools for business founders, creators, and brands looking to bring their ideas to life.
What sets Natasha apart? Her unique ability to merge creative vision with powerful execution. Her course, The Iconic Artist Blueprint, has earned her a 2-Comma Club Award from ClickFunnels, recognizing over $1 million in sales through her marketing and branding expertise. With a robust portfolio that includes features on Adweek, Vevo, NPR, and more, Natasha’s work has gained widespread recognition for its impact on the creative industries.
Looking ahead, Natasha is set to release a book on building iconic visual identities for musicians, while expanding Artist House and FNDR House into top platforms for education and coaching, and championing brands that prioritize culture and sustainability.
Kendal Frayer
Kendal Frayer is flipping the script on business, travel, and lifestyle, blending bold authenticity with unstoppable ambition to create a world all her own. With her passion for fashion and travel, Kendal has become a force that resonates with those who value real connections and pursuing their dreams.
Kendal’s journey began with a love for travel and fashion but has evolved into something far greater. Her content inspires those who explore new places, try fresh styles, and live life on their terms. She shares not just the glamorous side but real stories that encourage others to follow their passions.
By collaborating with global influencers, leaders, and tastemakers, Kendal is shaping the future of business and lifestyle. Balancing home life, managing numerous investment portfolios, and working on exciting projects, Kendal continues to redefine what it means to lead a fulfilling life. Her philosophy, “being authentic and aligned,” guides everything she does, inspiring others to follow her lead. Kendal isn’t just building a brand—she’s creating a movement.
Kendal’s impact extends far beyond her digital presence. Recognized with accolades such as Business Elite’s 40 Under 40 and WIBA’s Most Influential Social Media Personality, her work in social change truly sets her apart. Through events like the Foster Love Gala, Kendal has helped serve over 1 million children in foster care, proving success is about making a difference.
Always staying ahead of the curve through education and a natural gift for curation, Kendal blends innovation with a passion for growth. Her dedication to social good continues through her work with NGOs and on various boards, staying true to causes aligned with her values.
Tashombe Jones
For Tashombe Jones, BBQ is more than just a business—it’s a reflection of his life’s journey, a symbol of perseverance, and a way to bring people together. As the owner of TDT BBQ, a unique gem nestled in a gas station in the heart of the community, Tashombe has turned a modest location into a place where flavor, family, and passion converge.
Tashombe’s career began as a private chef, with a celebrated tenure cooking for baseball legend Hank Aaron. After more than a decade, he channeled his expertise into BBQ, launching TDT BBQ with his son and nephew. What started as a small venture blossomed into a beloved spot, known for its mouthwatering dishes and loyal following.
His path to success hasn’t been without challenges. When his partners stepped away, Tashombe stood firm, keeping his dream alive through sheer grit and determination. Even in the face of adversity, he never lost sight of what mattered most—building connections with his customers and offering them a taste of authentic, heartfelt BBQ.
Beyond the grill, Tashombe’s heart for his community shines through. During the difficult days of COVID-19, he went above and beyond, providing free meals and gas to single mothers in need, ensuring that his neighbors felt supported when they needed it most.
Looking ahead, Tashombe plans to bottle his signature sauce and bring the flavors of his restaurant to homes nationwide His commitment to quality and his passion for BBQ are the driving forces behind his vision of expansion—a vision that will share his love for cooking with the world, one jar at a time.
Kim Ward
Imagine a business that empowers you to design the life you’ve always dreamed of. Kim Ward, founder of Life By Design Solutions, LLC, is making this a reality for entrepreneurs worldwide. Her visionary leadership and innovative strategies have solidified her reputation as a leading entrepreneur revolutionizing family-focused businesses.
A decade ago, Kim started Life By Design with a heartfelt mission: to build a business that gave her the freedom to focus on her family while making a lasting impact on others. Today, her journey has inspired thousands of entrepreneurs, helping them master their time and resources to create lives of financial success and true personal freedom.
Certified as an NLP Practitioner and Master Transformation Coach, Kim offers innovative tactics and practical solutions to help her clients stay ahead in a competitive market. Her forward-thinking approach includes staying at the forefront of emerging digital marketing trends to ensure her clients’ continued growth.
Kim’s impressive accomplishments speak volumes about her expertise and leadership. Named one of The Silicon Review’s “Top 30 Best Leaders to Watch in 2024,” Kim also graced the cover of Brainz Magazine in December 2023, became a Lifetime Member of Continental Who’s Who, and authored Life By Design: Leverage, Lifestyle, and Legacy. Beyond her professional accolades, Kim stays deeply connected to her community by supporting charitable causes, sponsoring performing arts events for children, and actively participating in outreach projects.
Kim Ward is proof that success isn’t solely about profits—it’s about purpose. With her unwavering dedication to helping entrepreneurs design businesses that reflect their values, Kim is reshaping the future of work, one thriving business at a time.
Jonathan Ogle
In today’s fast-paced digital world, where attention spans are shorter than ever, how can your brand cut through the noise and make a lasting impact? Jonathan Ogle, co-founder and principal of The Infinite Agency, has cracked the code. By blending creativity, strategy, and digital innovation, Jonathan has redefined how brands connect with audiences in meaningful ways.
Since founding The Infinite Agency in 2010, Jonathan has partnered with top brands like Anheuser-Busch, ESPN, and Southwest Airlines, understanding early on that digital-first strategies are essential for successful marketing. In a world where you have less than a second to make an impression, Jonathan’s agency crafts campaigns that don’t just capture attention—they keep it, driving engagement in meaningful ways.
As a visionary in creative entrepreneurship, Jonathan helps brands break through the digital clutter and establish a cultural presence that resonates. His strategies don’t just help brands succeed—they ensure they leave a meaningful mark, creating purpose-driven marketing that stands the test of time.
At the core of The Infinite Agency’s philosophy is a belief that marketing should never feel like an interruption. Instead, Jonathan’s team creates authentic, digital-first experiences that speak directly to the audience’s needs, desires, and emotions. By focusing on the industry’s key decision-makers—media managers, CMOs, and marketing directors—Jonathan ensures that each campaign is crafted to inspire and lead the marketing world forward.
What began as a simple idea has evolved into a cornerstone of modern marketing. With The Infinite Agency, Jonathan is shaping the future of marketing, setting a new standard where every interaction is both purposeful and impactful.
Connie Inukaii
Connie Inukai is not just an inventor, TEDx Speaker, and author—she’s a true Grandmapreneur! Breaking the barriers of age, she has proven that entrepreneurship knows no limits, showing the world that age is just a number.
With an innate drive for innovation, Connie embarked on numerous ventures, ultimately creating Tip ‘n Split, a tool designed to help read small print on menus and bills and simplify the process of calculating tips and splitting restaurant bills. The product’s success was undeniable, with over 20,000 units sold and recognition on major platforms such as The Today Show and The View. Connie also received the prestigious Gold Medal for “Best New Gadget” at INPEX, cementing her status as a visionary entrepreneur.
With this triumph under her belt, Connie realized she had much more to contribute to the world of entrepreneurship, especially for older individuals. She penned Retirement: Think Big, Take Action, Make Money, a guide to encourage and equip older entrepreneurs to embrace the business world. But Connie’s entrepreneurial journey didn’t stop there. She went on to launch Write Your Selfie, a program that helps older individuals document their life stories in meaningful ways. This initiative encourages creative storytelling, enabling seniors to preserve their memories for future generations.
Connie’s journey is a true reflection of determination and reinvention. She’s not just an inventor and author, but a mentor who helps others share their stories and create lasting legacies. Her work goes beyond product development and writing; it’s about leaving a positive impact on others and demonstrating that age doesn’t define what you can achieve.