People who inspired us in 2025

In 2025, numerous individuals across various fields have emerged as beacons of inspiration, driving change, fostering innovation, and uplifting communities. Their contributions have not only shaped their respective domains but have also left an indelible mark on society at large. Here are some of the remarkable figures who inspired us this year:

1. Amanda Nguyen and Kieu Chinh: Bridging Generations Through Advocacy

Vietnamese civil-rights activist Amanda Nguyen and renowned actor Kieu Chinh have formed a powerful intergenerational partnership, highlighting the importance of heritage and resilience. Nguyen, founder of the nonprofit Rise, has been instrumental in protecting the rights of sexual violence survivors and is set to become the first Vietnamese and Southeast Asian woman in space. Chinh, a philanthropist and refugee advocate, has significantly contributed through the Vietnam Children's Fund. Their combined efforts have inspired many within and beyond the Vietnamese community. citeturn0news20

2. Hannah Fry: Making Mathematics Accessible

Professor Hannah Fry has continued to demystify mathematics for the public. Appointed as the University of Cambridge's first Professor of the Public Understanding of Mathematics in January 2025, Fry has utilized various platforms, including TED Talks and YouTube, to make complex mathematical concepts engaging and relatable. Her dedication to education has inspired countless individuals to appreciate the beauty and applicability of mathematics in everyday life.

3. John Green: Championing Global Health Initiatives

Author John Green has leveraged his platform to advocate for global health, particularly in the fight against tuberculosis (TB). In 2023, he led a successful campaign urging pharmaceutical companies to allow the production of generic TB drugs, increasing accessibility worldwide. By 2025, Green announced his forthcoming nonfiction book, "Everything Is Tuberculosis: The History and Persistence of Our Deadliest Infection," aiming to raise further awareness and drive action against this persistent global health challenge.

4. Bharadwaj Dayala: Celebrating Women's Stories Globally

Indian adventurer and photographer Bharadwaj Dayala launched the "Million Amazing Women" project in January 2025, embarking on a global expedition to capture one million portraits of women from all 195 countries. This initiative aims to celebrate diversity, empower women, and preserve their stories for future generations, highlighting their strength, resilience, and achievements.

5. Pamela Anderson: Advocating for Plant-Based Living

Pamela Anderson has been a prominent advocate for plant-based diets and animal rights. In 2024, she published her plant-based cookbook, "I Love You: Recipes From the Heart," which received acclaim for its accessible and delicious recipes. Building on this momentum, Anderson is set to host "Pamela's Cooking with Love," a plant-based cooking show on Flavour Network in 2025, inspiring many to embrace compassionate and healthy eating habits.

6. Steph Claire Smith and Laura Henshaw: Promoting Sustainable Health

Co-founders of the health and wellness app Kic, Steph Claire Smith and Laura Henshaw have been at the forefront of promoting sustainable health habits. In collaboration with Body+Soul, they launched the Health of the Nation campaign for 2025, focusing on acceptance, body positivity, and creating achievable health goals. Their approach emphasizes small, consistent steps and finding motivation beyond physical appearance, encouraging individuals to prioritize overall well-being. citeturn0news26

7. Kylie Kelce: Elevating Conversations on Motherhood and Women's Sports

Kylie Kelce, wife of former NFL player Jason Kelce, has gained recognition for her podcast "Not Gonna Lie" (NGL), which delves into topics such as motherhood, relationships, and women's sports. Launched in December 2024, the podcast quickly topped charts, resonating with audiences through its candid and relatable content. Kelce's genuine approach has fostered a supportive community, inspiring many to engage in open conversations about the challenges and joys of motherhood and the importance of women's representation in sports. citeturn0news15

8. Shania Twain: Inspiring the Next Generation of Musicians

Country music icon Shania Twain has continued to influence emerging artists in 2025. Younger musicians like Taylor Swift, Harry Styles, Sabrina Carpenter, and Kelsea Ballerini have credited Twain as a significant inspiration in their careers. Twain's openness to collaborating with and mentoring new talent has solidified her legacy as a trailblazer in the music industry, inspiring the next generation to pursue their artistic passions. citeturn0news10

9. Gary Gulman: Blending Comedy with Personal Narrative

Comedian Gary Gulman has captivated audiences with his one-man show, "Grandiloquent," which explores his childhood and significant life experiences through a blend of humor and serious themes. Set in New York's Lucille Lortel Theatre, the show has been praised for its engaging storytelling and thoughtful exploration of personal growth. Gulman's work has inspired many to find humor and resilience in the face of adversity. citeturn0news12

10. Ellen Hodakova Larsson: Pioneering Sustainable Fashion

Swedish designer Ellen Hodakova Larsson, winner of the LVMH Prize, has been recognized for her innovative approach to sustainable fashion. By creating couture pieces from recycled materials, Larsson challenges traditional fashion norms and promotes environmental consciousness within the industry. Her work has inspired both designers and consumers to consider sustainability as a core value in fashion. citeturn0news11

These individuals, among others, have inspired us in 2025 through their dedication, creativity, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Their stories encourage us to strive for excellence, embrace innovation, and contribute meaningfully to our communities.