Daniel Taylor
Founder and CEO, Bags
AGE: 32
Daniel Taylor is the co-founder and CEO of Bags, a platform focused on helping underrepresented entrepreneurs scale their business by securing better loans and managing their finances.
Since its launch, Bags has raised over $4 million from Howard Schultz Family Foundation, Slauson & Co., and Google for Startups, to build the first end-to-end platform to help businesses scale by finding, securing, and managing better loans. In addition to helping thousands of businesses scale, Bags is filling a $1.7 trillion lending gap for women and minority-owned businesses.
Prior to Bags, Taylor co-founded AskTipster, a social data startup that was acquired by Flowcode in 2019, and Ajax Academy Dubai, a youth soccer academy bringing the Ajax Amsterdam philosophy to the UAE.
Taylor, a Stanford StartX alumni, is also a former professional soccer player and Brown University graduate. He sits on the board of the Technology and Innovation Council of the Guggenheim Museum, the No. 10 board of the U.S. Soccer Foundation, the Next Generation Council of the National Bankers Association, and the board of the Waterside School.
Amira Rasool
Founder and CEO, The Folklore
AGE: 29
Amira Rasool, founder and CEO of The Folklore, is a trailblazer reshaping the global fashion landscape. By creating a platform that highlights contemporary African and diasporic brands, Rasool is bridging the gap between underrepresented designers and the global market.
Launched in 2018, The Folklore curates a stunning collection of clothing, accessories, and home goods from African designers and brands across the diaspora. Under Rasool’s visionary leadership, the platform has become a global marketplace that celebrates innovation, culture, and craftsmanship.
In 2022, Rasool became one of the youngest Black women to raise $1 million in a pre-seed round. The following year, the former fashion journalist-turned-entrepreneur raised another $3.4 million in funding, led by two ex-General Catalyst partners, Kenneth Chenault Jr and John Monagle.
Rasool, who has written for outlets like Teen Vogue, Vogue, and Glamour, has not only positioned herself as a leader in fashion and e-commerce, but also a champion of diversity, creating economic opportunities for Black creatives.
Abdul Karim Abdullah and Ken Agyapong, Jr.
Co-founders, AfroFuture Fest
AGE: Abdul 36 | Ken 35
Abdul Karim Abdullah and Ken Agyapong, Jr., the dynamic duo behind AfroFuture Fest (formerly Afrochella), are redefining how African culture is celebrated and shared with the world. What began as a festival in Accra, Ghana, in 2017 has blossomed into a global movement showcasing the vibrancy of African music, art, food, and fashion.
With AfroFuture, Abdullah and Agyapong, Jr. have created more than just an event—they’ve built a platform that unites people of African descent, fostering pride, unity, and innovation. Past headliners of the festival include global Afrobeats stars from Davido to Wizkid and Tems. The festival’s impact on tourism and local economies has also been monumental, attracting over 65,000 global travelers to Ghana and generating more than $4 billion in tourism revenue. Not only does it spotlight the richness of African culture, but AfroFuture has also catalyzed local economic growth, creating over 6,000 jobs and supporting philanthropic causes.
In 2023, Abdullah and Agyapong, Jr. were named as goodwill ambassadors of tourism to Ghana to continue promoting tourism.
Larry Morrow
CEO, The Morrow Hospitality Group
AGE: 33
Larry Morrow, a serial entrepreneur and restaurateur, is on a mission to build the largest Black-owned hospitality group in the country. His New Orleans-based hospitality business portfolio includes an event production company, multiple restaurants, a nightclub, and developing concepts across the country.
In 2018, Morrow and his mother and business partner, Chef Lenora Chong, opened Morrow’s, a must-visit destination in The Big Easy, drawing locals and celebrities alike for its unique fusion of Creole and Korean cuisine and vibrant atmosphere.
Morrow’s rapidly expanding empire also includes the Keith Lee-favorite Monday Restaurant + Bar in Mid-City, Sun Chong in the French Quarter, and the hotspot cocktail lounge Treehouse. In 2024, he celebrated the grand opening of Morrow Steak in the Warehouse District and Hide/Seek, an adult event space on Decatur Street. Now he’s gearing up for the opening of Spicy Mango, a vegan-forward Caribbean restaurant in the Marigny Triangle. The 33-year-old New Orleans native is also working to expand beyond New Orleans and into Houston, Atlanta, New York, and Miami.
Morrow’s journey began with Larry Morrow Events (LME), where he quickly gained recognition as one of the youngest and most successful event curators. Now, with over 500 employees, his vision is to create unique experiences and opportunities that impact and uplift the community.
Ashley M. Fox
Founder and CEO, EMPIFY
AGE: 35
Ashley M. Fox, the founder and CEO of EMPIFY, is redefining financial education and empowerment for underserved communities. As a former Wall Street analyst-turned-entrepreneur, Fox is on a mission to bridge the gap between financial literacy and generational wealth-building.
Through EMPIFY, Fox has created a platform that demystifies complex financial concepts, helping over 2 million people build a wealth-building mindset and invest more than $10 million in the stock market. From debt management to investment strategies, her company offers tools, coaching, and resources that empower clients to achieve financial independence and long-term stability.
EMPIFY made its debut on the prestigious 2024 Inc. 5000 List, clinching the No. 49 spot among the top financial service companies.
An award-winning speaker and author, Fox shares her expertise on national stages, inspiring audiences to take actionable steps toward building wealth. Her visionary leadership and dedication to economic empowerment have made her a celebrated figure in the business world.
Photo by Kathy Hutchins/Shutterstock
Jaylen Brown
Boston Celtics Star and Entrepreneur, NBA
AGE: 28
Jaylen Brown is more than a standout player for the Boston Celtics—he’s a visionary leader reshaping the intersection of sports, entrepreneurship, and social impact.
In 2024, Brown’s athletic prowess led the Boston Celtics to an NBA Finals victory, earning Finals MVP honors and the Eastern Conference MVP. In 2023, the 28-year-old small forward signed a record-breaking $304 million supermax contract extension with the Celtics. A first-round pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, he has since become a three-time All-Star and serves as vice president of the National Basketball Players Association, where he spearheaded the creation of THINK450, an initiative empowering players’ control over their name and likeness.
Brown’s influence, however, extends far beyond basketball. Off the court, he passionately advocates for social justice and education. The NBA MVP founded the Bridge Program through his 7uice Foundation, partnering with the MIT Media Lab and NASA to support underrepresented youth in STEM. He also launched the Boston XChange (BXC) and Oakland XChange (OXC) to empower underrepresented creators and entrepreneurs with resources and opportunities. Focused on closing the racial wealth gap, BXC aims to generate $5 billion in net wealth creation through economic empowerment, innovation, and cultural diversity.
Understanding the power of ownership, Brown reportedly turned down over $50 million in endorsement deals from major sneaker companies and launched his own sneaker and athleisure brand, 741.
Furthermore, Brown is the chief innovation officer and board member of Hapbee, a wearables wellness technology company.
Nigel Sylvester
Professional BMX Athlete and Founder/CEO, Nigel Sylvester Foundation, GO Brand
AGE: 37
Nigel Sylvester is arguably the most recognized name in the world of BMX. The 37-year-old athlete and entrepreneur has transformed action sports over the last two decades through his daring stunts that blend his distinct athleticism and technical skill with an artistic flair.
The Queens, New York native cultivated fame by showcasing daredevil bike tricks around the globe on his groundbreaking GO video series, racking up more than 100 million views on social media.
At 18, Sylvester signed with Dave Mirra’s MirraCo, making him one of the few Black BMX athletes to turn pro. His talent caught the eye of Jordan Brand, which awarded him with his own signature sneakers. Sylvester’s creative vision has also been tapped for campaigns with global brands such as EA Sports, Mercedes-Benz, Levi’s, Louis Vuitton, PlayStation, Moncler, Specialized Bikes, and Glacéau Smartwater. He also created the first-ever Rimowa BMX Travel case and designed the first-ever Fendi BMX bike. He has even been recognized by hip-hop mogul Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter, who rapped about Sylvester and his dauntless “bike flips” on Frank Ocean’s 2017 song “Biking.”
In July 2024, the BMX legend collaborated with Jordan Brand to release the Nigel Sylvester x Air Jordan 4 RM “Grandma’s Driveway,” paying homage to his grandmother’s home, where he learned how to ride a tricycle. That same month, he hosted his annual transatlantic bike ride, starting in London and culminating in New York City, spanning over 3,000 miles across the Atlantic within 24 hours.
Furthermore, Sylvester was appointed as the creative advisor for New Era Cap in 2024 and was the creative director for the “Forever New York” campaign for its Fall/ Winter 2024 collection.
Darrius Barnes
President of Crown Legacy FC MLS ProNext, Charlotte FC
AGE: 38
Darrius Barnes, president of Crown Legacy Football Club, the Major League Soccer Next Pro affiliate of Charlotte FC, is redefining leadership in professional soccer. As a former MLS player with the New England Revolution, Barnes brings a wealth of experience to his leadership role. His transition from athlete to executive showcases his versatility and commitment to the sport.
He was named president of Crown Legacy FC in March 2022 after joining Charlotte FC’s front office in 2021. Before that, he spent three years at the MLS League Office, following eight years of playing in the league and a successful college career at Duke University.
At Crown Legacy FC, Barnes focuses on fostering talent, creating opportunities for emerging players, and enhancing the league’s reputation as a platform for excellence. Under his leadership, Crown Legacy FC has established itself as one of the premier clubs in MLS NEXT Pro—both on and off the field—connecting with local fans and creating opportunities for their players and staff. His leadership earned him the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro Executive of the Year Award.
Barnes’ contributions to the larger Charlotte FC organization go beyond the field. He is a leader in its African American Employee Resource Group, Stride, and advocates for its MLS Advance program. He is also an advocate of Tepper Sports and Entertainment and Best Buddies Partnership, which promotes inclusion, provides occupational opportunities for individuals with disabilities, and integrates them into the workplace.
Photo by Attila KISBENEDEK / AFP) (Photo by ATTILA KISBENEDEK/AFP via Getty Images)
Sha’Carri Richardson
Olympian and Track & Field Star
AGE: 24
Sha’Carri Richardson is a powerhouse Olympian and track & field star whose unparalleled speed and fierce resilience have made her one of the most compelling athletes of her generation.
Richardson, known for her blazing 100-meter sprints, her rise to fame has been marked by groundbreaking achievements and an unshakable determination to overcome adversity.
At just 24, Richardson has already etched her name in the history books, becoming a global sensation with her stunning performances on the world stage. Her triumphs include securing a gold medal at the 2022 World Championships, solidifying her place among the sport’s elite. Last June, Richardson defended her title as the U.S. national champion in the 100-meter sprint event. She won the women’s 100m final in 10.71 seconds and qualified for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, where she won the silver medal in the 100m and gold in the 4×100 relay.
Coco Gauff at the 2023 U.S. Open (Photo: Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
Cori Dionne “Coco” Gauff
Tennis Player
AGE: 20
Cori Dionne “Coco” Gauff is a tennis sensation whose meteoric stardom inspires the world. Rising to prominence as a teenage phenom, Gauff won the 2023 U.S. Open at 19, becoming the youngest American player to secure the title since Serena Williams.
Known for her powerful serve, fierce determination, and poised demeanor on the court, the 20-year-old tennis star has raked in numerous titles, records, and awards since bursting onto the scene. In her debut season, Gauff became the youngest player ranked in the Women’s Tennis Association Top 100. The Florida native also made headlines and sparked “Cocomania” after receiving a wild card entry to Wimbledon in 2019 and defeating five-time tournament champion Venus Williams in the first round. That year, Gauff reached the third round of the U.S. Open and won her first singles title.
As the No. 5-ranked player in the world and the top American, Gauff was selected as a flag bearer for the opening ceremony at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris alongside NBA superstar LeBron James.
