A surge of creativity, invention, and cultural influence is anticipated as 2025 approaches, driven by Black trailblazers who are revolutionizing their respective fields. In addition to grabbing our attention this year, these people are set to soar in 2025. These are the Ones to Watch Nationally in 2025: influential figures in technology, entertainment, activism, and business whose work empowers people and paves the way for a better future.
Vice President Kamala Harris
After the inauguration on January 20, Kamala Harris will step down as vice president. Given her impressive legal and political background, she has a lot of choices. In 2028, some Democrats hope Harris will run for president once more. She has also been mentioned as a potential 2026 candidate for California governor. Or will she completely give up politics to become a teacher, author, or non-profit? “While I concede this election, I do not concede the fight that fueled this campaign,” she stated in her concession speech.
In 2025, we will continue to hear from Dallas U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett, who has become one of the most vocal members of Congress. In order to uphold justice and guarantee equality for all, Crockett has devoted her life to public service as a Texas state legislator, civil rights lawyer, and former public defender. She exhorts women in particular to remain active and insist on having a seat at the table.
Scott Turner, HUD Secretary (Pending)
In 2025, Turner will be closely watched because he is the only Black individual appointed to the cabinet by incoming President Donald Trump. During Trump’s first term, the Texas congressman and former NFL player led the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council, which aimed to boost economic growth in Opportunity Zones and other underprivileged areas. Turner is now influencing housing and education policy as the chair of the Center for Education Opportunity at the America First Policy Institute and chief visionary officer of JPI, a multifamily housing developer in Texas. He remains a pivotal player in determining the direction of urban development, economic expansion, and opportunity in marginalized groups as a result of his efforts.
Art Curators Khalil, Shirley, and Bernard Kinsey
The Kinseys are renowned for their innovative efforts to use art to preserve and disseminate Black American history. One of the most important private collections in the nation is the result of what started as a personal love for collecting African American art. As historical curators, their collection covers centuries and tells compelling tales of Black existence, struggle, and victory in addition to highlighting the beauty of Black art. They are important players in the current discussion regarding cultural preservation and the acknowledgment of Black history because of their unwavering dedication to spreading this legacy throughout the world.
Letitia James New York attorney general
By taking on some of the biggest companies in the country and obtaining settlements that broke records, Letitia James has continuously shown her dedication to justice. James plans to publish a memoir in 2025 that details her well-known court cases and her experiences as a legal pioneer. James, who is rumored to be considering a bid for governor, is well-positioned to continue influencing politics.
Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time Formula 1 world champion, keeps breaking down barriers on and off the field. He will co-chair the renowned Met Gala in 2025, which will showcase the impact of Black fashion with the topic Superfine: Tailoring Black Style. Hamilton’s participation demonstrates his dedication to cultural representation and diversity in the design industry.
Michael Lomax, M.D.United Negro College Fund (UNCF) president and chief executive officer
For many years, Dr. Michael Lomax has been a prominent figure in higher education, promoting the growth of HBCUs and attempting to expand Black students’ access to higher education. Under his direction, the UNCF has been instrumental in generating money for HBCU institutional assistance, educational initiatives, and scholarships. Dr. Lomax is a crucial figure to monitor in the years to come because of his work, which continues to have a huge impact on the future of Black education.
Victoria Literary powerhouse Christopher Murray just sold one million copies of his book The Personal Librarian, which he co-wrote with Marie Benedict. When Murray publishes Harlem Rhapsody, a comprehensive historical novel about Jessie Redmon Faust, the founder of the Harlem Renaissance, in 2025, all eyes will be on her. Murray solidifies her position as a pillar of modern literature with her six Lifetime films.
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