The entrepreneurs on this list aren’t just building businesses—they’re shaping the future. Each one has carved their own path, defied expectations, and made their mark in industries that demand nothing less than bold innovation. They’re not here to follow trends; they’re here to set them.
From redefining real estate to reimagining digital spaces, these are the names turning ambition into action. Meet the Top 10 Entrepreneurs to Watch in 2025—the ones who’ve proven that success isn’t handed out; it’s earned with vision, hustle, and an unrelenting drive to do things differently.
Amit Raizada: Visionary Investor and Founder of Spectrum Business Ventures
From cellular technology to cutting-edge investments, Amit Raizada has built a career defined by strategic innovation and purposeful entrepreneurship. Born in India and raised in the United States, Raizada’s business journey began during his time at Michigan State University, where he first recognized the transformative potential of emerging technologies.
In the 1990s, Raizada launched his initial venture in the cellular phone industry, successfully scaling and merging with Nextel Wireless. This early success laid the groundwork for Spectrum Business Ventures, founded in 2002 as a strategic investment management firm that would become his professional cornerstone.
Spectrum Business Ventures reflects Raizada’s nuanced approach to investment. The firm’s portfolio spans diverse sectors including aerospace technology, biomedical innovation, luxury real estate, and financial services. His investment strategy prioritizes calculated risk, cross-industry collaboration, and sustainable growth—principles that have distinguished him as a forward-thinking business leader.
Beyond business success, Raizada demonstrates a profound commitment to social impact through the Amit Raizada Foundation. The organization focuses on critical social infrastructure, supporting initiatives in affordable housing, healthcare, and education. For Raizada, entrepreneurship represents more than financial returns—it’s a vehicle for meaningful societal transformation.
His professional achievements have garnered significant recognition, highlighting his ability to identify and develop transformative opportunities. Raizada continues to inspire through his strategic vision and dedication to creating value across business and community domains.
For more information, visit Spectrum Business Ventures or connect through the Amit Raizada Foundation.
Michael Melicia: Founder and CEO of Coastal Paving & Excavating Inc., Real Estate Investor, and Community Advocate
Michael Melicia’s entrepreneurial journey is marked by a relentless drive to reshape industries through innovation and thoughtful leadership. As the founder and CEO of Coastal Paving & Excavating Inc. (CPEX), he has transformed a small paving business into a powerhouse, driving the industry forward with a focus on quality, growth, and community impact. His company, which began with just $500, now leads major commercial, municipal, and residential projects in Monterey County. Melicia’s ability to scale his business by 300% in just seven years is a testament to his strategic vision and operational expertise.
Beyond CPEX’s remarkable growth, Melicia is making waves in other sectors, adding OXI Fresh carpet cleaning franchises and J&M Properties to his portfolio. These calculated moves into complementary industries have proven successful, with OXI Fresh capitalizing on growing demand for eco-friendly services, while J&M Properties has established a solid foothold in Monterey County’s competitive real estate market. His management approach, shaped by hands-on industry experience, has helped build a loyal 60-person team across his ventures. Rather than rapid expansion, Melicia has focused on sustainable growth and operational excellence, a strategy that has yielded consistent results across his diverse business interests.
Melicia channels his success into meaningful community impact, focusing particularly on youth mental health programs throughout Monterey County. His foundation has funded counseling services for over 200 local students and launched a mentorship program connecting young entrepreneurs with established business leaders. These initiatives, combined with his business track record, reflect the kind of impact-driven leadership that defines successful modern entrepreneurship. Follow Melicia’s ongoing projects on Instagram @MichaelAMelicia or at militiamindset.com.
Ellie Shefi: Best-Selling Author, Speaker, and Founder of Made to Change the World™ Publishing
Ellie Shefi is a 10x #1 international best-selling and award-winning author, speaker, strategist, consultant, corporate trainer, advisor, and attorney, who leverages her 30+ years of experience in law, business, education, and advocacy to help organizations build world-class leaders and individuals to expand their influence.
Dedicated to empowering others to use their voice, she founded Made to Change the World™ Publishing, a full-service independent publishing house that’s run by women, for women, to provide women with a world-class platform to share their stories with the world. Ellie guides entrepreneurs, speakers, coaches, and consultants through her strategic business and brand building book writing and publishing process and helps leaders amplify their message so they can scale their impact.
Known around the world for her engaging presence, she is regularly featured in top media outlets including NBC, ABC, CBS, New York Times, USA Today, Forbes, and Entrepreneur, to name a few.
Ellie’s story is not just about success but about triumph over adversity. Surviving abuse, homelessness, and cancer, she epitomizes resilience and resourcefulness. A true inspiration, Ellie empowers audiences globally with blueprints for overcoming challenges and strategically creating the business, life, and legacy they desire.
Luv and Kush Chandani: Founders of The Chandani Group, Top Realtors, and Platinum-Certified Artists
Luv and Kush Chandani—better known as the Chandani Twins or by their stage name THEMXXNLIGHT—bring a unique edge to California’s real estate market. As top realtors under 30, they run the Chandani Group, a real estate firm partnered with Compass, where they’ve sold over $150 million in properties and secured more listings this year than any previous brokerage record. Raised in Los Altos Hills and Saratoga, the twins leverage their unique backgrounds to offer clients a blend of real estate, construction, and financial insight that sets them apart in California’s competitive housing market. They currently lead as the #1 agents in Saratoga, CA, and rank among the top agents in Cambrian Park, a hotspot for new buyers in the Bay Area.
But real estate is just half the story. As THEMXXNLIGHT, the twins have a thriving music career launched by Wiz Khalifa and now count platinum records and 150 million streams to their name. Their connection to sports and entertainment runs deep, with collaborations and friendships spanning names like Kevin Durant, Kelly Oubre Jr., and French Montana. This dual career has built a rich network that gives their clients a unique advantage—whether it’s access to exclusive properties or an understanding of high-profile lifestyles.
2024 marks a big growth year for the Chandani Twins. They recently hired eight new agents, training them hands-on with the same drive and detail they bring to their own work. With plans to build one of California’s largest real estate teams, their approach fuses industry expertise, family tradition, and an unmistakable cultural touch, setting a new standard for what the next generation of real estate can achieve.
Carlo Cisco: Founder of Select, a Premier Membership and Concierge Service
Carlo Cisco’s entrepreneurial journey exemplifies strategic innovation and digital transformation. From his early days as a finance major at the University of Miami to becoming the founder of Select, Cisco has consistently demonstrated an exceptional ability to identify and create value in evolving market landscapes.
His professional trajectory began with a successful event planning business and expanded through strategic roles in finance and equity trading. A pivotal experience at Groupon in Japan, where he contributed to one of the company’s most successful global markets, provided critical insights into digital platform development and consumer engagement.
Select represents the culmination of Cisco’s entrepreneurial vision—a digital membership and concierge service that offers unprecedented access and value. The platform provides exclusive benefits across 1.3 million locations worldwide, partnering with prestigious brands like BMW, Hyatt, and Tumi. Members receive priority access, discounts, and complimentary offerings across restaurants, nightlife, travel, retail, and lifestyle services.
The company’s strategic roadmap is ambitious. Cisco plans to expand Select to over 500,000 members within five years, with emerging goals to integrate advanced AI-powered financial services and lifestyle tools. This approach reflects a sophisticated understanding of technological convergence and consumer experience design.
Beyond business achievements, Cisco remains committed to creating a meaningful impact. He continues to innovate from his base in Miami, balancing professional ambition with personal passions for dining, travel, and investing. For more information, visit meetselect.com.
DJ Carroll: Founder of Carroll Media Corporation and Host of The Sales Factory Podcast
DJ Carroll, better known as Coach Carroll, is an entrepreneur whose career has been built on grit, determination, and the ability to turn vision into reality. As the founder of Carroll Media Corporation, DJ has become a trusted name for entrepreneurs seeking real-world strategies to grow their businesses and achieve financial independence.
DJ’s entrepreneurial journey began in his teenage years with a lawn care business, where he first discovered the power of consistency and hard work. This experience, coupled with his commitment to integrity, set the foundation for his future ventures. Over the years, DJ has launched and scaled multiple businesses, each reflecting his focus on sustainable success and practical innovation. His leadership at Carroll Media has provided countless entrepreneurs with the tools and insights they need to navigate competitive markets.
Beyond building businesses, DJ is known for his engaging presence as a keynote speaker. His talks are packed with actionable advice and delivered with energy that leaves audiences inspired and motivated.
DJ’s expertise extends to hosting The Sales Factory podcast, where he dives into strategies on sales and leadership, and authoring the book Phenomenal Phone Calls, a guide to mastering sales conversations. His latest endeavor, Alli, brings AI-driven tools to small businesses, helping them optimize their social media strategies in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
When he’s not building businesses or speaking to audiences, DJ enjoys flying, fitness, and exploring new ventures in real estate. Based in Louisville, Kentucky, he continues to inspire entrepreneurs to pursue their goals with focus and determination. For more information, visit coachcarroll.com or search #CoachCarroll on social media.
Mary Seats: Pioneering Female Entrepreneurship Through Innovation and Community
Mary Seats, widely recognized as Mz Skittlez, is a trailblazer in female entrepreneurship, known for transforming challenges into stepping stones for success. As the founder of The Icing Agency and Bakery Cowork, she has redefined marketing and co-working spaces, creating vibrant platforms that empower women to thrive. Her vision has cemented her as a leader, not just in business but in building communities that inspire connection and growth. Her success is underscored by her company’s inclusion on the Inc 5000 list, ranking at number 628, a testament to her impact and achievements in the entrepreneurial landscape.
Under her leadership, Bakery Cowork has emerged as Atlanta’s premier female-focused collaborative workspace, occupying an impressive 15,000 square feet. This innovative enterprise represents more than a conventional co-working environment—it serves as an integrated business accelerator that provides comprehensive resources for women entrepreneurs. The facility features professional-grade photography studios, versatile event spaces, and contemporary meeting rooms, all designed to facilitate business growth and professional development.
What distinguishes Seats in the entrepreneurial landscape is her strategic approach to community building. Through Bakery Cowork, she has implemented a robust programming schedule that includes industry-specific workshops, networking events, and high-profile speaker series. These initiatives have attracted partnerships with notable business leaders and celebrities, creating valuable opportunities for members to expand their professional networks and market reach.
Seats’ business acumen is particularly evident in her ability to identify and address market gaps. The Icing Agency, her marketing firm, complements Bakery Cowork by providing members with access to professional marketing services, creating a synergistic ecosystem that supports business development at multiple levels. This integrated approach has proven especially valuable for early-stage entrepreneurs who require both infrastructure and strategic support.
Looking ahead, Seats envisions expanding Bakery Cowork into an even larger platform, where women everywhere can find the tools, support, and community they need to turn their dreams into reality. With her boundless drive and passion, Mz Skittlez continues to pave the way for female entrepreneurs, proving that with the right resources and connections, success is limitless.
Leo Climaco: Founder of Behaviors of NYC and Alpha Force, and Green Lion Solutions LLC
Leo Climaco is a multifaceted entrepreneur who has emerged as a pivotal force in behavioral therapy and leadership coaching. As the founder of Behaviors of NYC and Alpha Force, he has dedicated his professional journey to creating meaningful impact across multiple domains.
At the heart of Climaco’s mission is Behaviors of NYC, a therapy agency he co-founded with his wife, providing critical in-home and in-school behavioral therapy for children with autism. Partnering with the Department of Education, the agency has become a lifeline for families in New York City, with plans to expand through a specialized school in South Florida.
Parallel to his therapeutic work, Climaco launched Alpha Force—a transformative coaching platform targeting entrepreneurial family men. The program goes beyond traditional coaching, offering a holistic approach to personal development that integrates physical wellness, family dynamics, professional growth, and spiritual alignment.
Leveraging his experiences working with billionaire families, Climaco developed a unique perspective on resilience and strategic leadership. His Leo Climaco Podcast serves as an additional platform for inspiration, featuring interviews with successful leaders and providing insights into breakthrough strategies.
“Never give up. Failure is an illusion. You’re only three feet from gold,” Climaco often tells aspiring entrepreneurs—a philosophy that encapsulates his unwavering commitment to personal transformation and collective empowerment.
With ambitious plans to expand Behaviors of NYC and transform Alpha Force into a global movement, Climaco continues to redefine leadership, one life at a time. His ultimate goal remains clear: creating a lasting legacy of purpose and positive change.
Hayley Caddes and Colin MacDonald: Redefining Mental Health Support for Gen Z
Hayley Caddes and Colin MacDonald are revolutionizing mental health support for Gen Z with Not Therapy, an innovative coaching platform that transcends traditional counseling models. Born from their own transformative personal experiences, the duo has crafted an approach that speaks directly to teens’ and young adults’ complex emotional landscapes—offering real-time, personalized support that bridges the critical gap between clinical intervention and daily life challenges.
Both Hayley and Colin faced significant challenges in their youth. Hayley battled undiagnosed mental illness, social anxiety, and substance abuse, while Colin struggled with depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. For both, stability came through wilderness therapy and therapeutic boarding school. Hayley went on to earn BS and MS degrees in Chemical Engineering from Columbia University, later founding Chill Pill, a venture-backed peer support platform for Gen Z women. Colin pursued a degree in Communications from Eastern Washington University and built a career in professional sports before excelling as a leader of high-performing sales teams. His success stemmed from his passion for helping his team members grow personally and professionally, which ultimately led him to focus entirely on life coaching.
Not Therapy emerged from a critical observation: traditional mental health resources often leave teens and young adults feeling unsupported and misunderstood. Their innovative model delivers daily accountability, personalized goal-setting, and holistic mentorship that extends far beyond weekly therapy sessions. Not Therapy also provides a unique, affordable alternative to wilderness camps and a solution for those seeking help within the often-criticized troubled teen industry.
Through carefully crafted “mental health roadmaps,” Hayley and Colin have guided numerous young adults through significant life transformations—from overcoming substance abuse to navigating academic challenges and managing social anxiety. Their work also extends to families, emphasizing emotional literacy and transformational coaching to equip parents with tools to address behavioral challenges and foster stronger connections with their teens.
More than a coaching practice, Not Therapy represents a movement challenging institutional approaches to mental health. By developing innovative strategies for schools and organizations, Hayley and Colin are dismantling the one-size-fits-all model of support. Click here to learn more about their transformative approach.
Jason Wojo: Founder of Wojo Media, Digital Advertising Visionary
Jason Wojo is the founder and visionary behind Wojo Media, a powerhouse in digital advertising that has delivered over $150 million in revenue for its clients. With a passion for understanding online trends and leveraging them for business growth, Jason has built Wojo Media into a company that combines cutting-edge advertising strategies with a commitment to community and professional empowerment.
Jason’s entrepreneurial journey began with a simple idea: finding innovative ways to maximize the impact of digital marketing. Drawing inspiration from early mentors and experiences, he launched Wojo Media to help businesses scale efficiently through tailored ad campaigns. Under Jason’s leadership, the company has achieved impressive milestones, including the creation of “Scale Your Ads,” a monthly event that attracts over 1,800 ad professionals worldwide. These gatherings foster collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and advancements in digital marketing strategies, reinforcing Wojo Media’s influence within the industry.
Jason’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is rooted in his own experiences: “You don’t know what you don’t know, and when you’re scared, you can’t afford to pull back. Inaction will keep you scared, so you have to run toward your fears and face them head-on.” His belief in embracing challenges and taking calculated risks has driven Wojo Media’s remarkable growth and success.
Looking ahead, Jason envisions expanding Wojo Media’s team to over 100 members while growing the company’s annual revenue to $50 million. He also plans to host more world-class marketing events and further solidify the company’s place among the Inc. 5000’s top businesses.
Sahara Rose: Host of Highest Self Podcast and Co-Founder of the Highest Self Institute
Sahara Rose stands out in the wellness world for bringing spirituality down to earth. Since launching her Highest Self Podcast in 2017, she’s connected with millions, racking up over 45 million downloads from listeners looking for depth that feels real. Sahara’s blend of purpose and practicality speaks to a generation less interested in fluff and more in results.
Through her books, including Discover Your Dharma—which features a foreword by Deepak Chopra—Sahara has shared her Dharma Blueprint, a method that has empowered thousands to pursue meaningful careers. To expand that reach, she co-founded the Highest Self Institute with Dr. Neeta Bhushan and Ajit Nawalka, offering the first certification for Dharma (Soul Purpose) Coaches. In just a few years, the institute has certified over 2,500 coaches across 60 countries, generating eight-figure revenue and an impressive 92% completion rate. It’s rare in the self-help world to see programs that deliver, but Sahara’s focus on practical transformation has made her an exception.
Now in 2025, Sahara is taking things further with their new Spiritual Life Coach Certification, which trains practitioners in modalities including intuition, chakra, ancestral healing, shadow work and inner child coaching over 6 months. Learn more + join their waitlist here.
Talitha Troupe: Founder and President of Sweet2Elite, Empowering Women in Relationships and Business
Talitha Troupe is the Founder and President of Sweet2Elite, a transformative platform empowering women to redefine their relationships, financial independence, and personal growth. Her journey began as a single mother navigating the challenges of raising two children while struggling to make ends meet. Determined to escape survival mode, she developed a unique philosophy centered on self-worth, strategic relationships, and building financial independence—a vision that would later become the cornerstone of Sweet2Elite.
Through Sweet2Elite, Talitha has created a thriving global community for women who aspire to align with high-value partners while establishing their own financial freedom. Her programs, such as the renowned Provider Man Plan and the Soft Life Society membership, offer actionable strategies for creating abundance in relationships and life. By combining dating insights with entrepreneurial tools, she provides a no-nonsense blueprint for women to elevate their standards, achieve their goals, and embrace a life of ease and fulfillment.
Her work has earned national recognition, with features on platforms like The Sherri Shepherd Show, Daily Mail, and The Shade Room, as well as viral podcast appearances that have reached millions. With over 480,000 followers on social media, Talitha has built a platform where real, relatable, and results-driven advice meets inspiration, making her a trusted voice in women’s empowerment.
At her core, Talitha believes success is about authenticity, relentless action, and never settling for less than you deserve. She continues to lead women worldwide toward creating lives that reflect their worth, proving that abundance and love can coexist beautifully. To learn more, visit providermanplan.com or follow her journey on Instagram @Sweet2Elite.
Jeremy Yost: Founder and CEO of Yost Enterprises, Real Estate Developer, and Co-Founder of Savage Rep Fitness
Jeremy Yost, Founder and CEO of Yost Enterprises, is a trailblazing entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in real estate development and management. Based in Charleston, Illinois, Jeremy has built an impressive portfolio of projects that have transformed communities and set new standards in the industry. From multifamily housing developments to landmark hotel and convention center projects, his work reflects a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and value creation.
A proud Navy veteran, Jeremy’s disciplined approach and resilience have been instrumental in his success. Under his leadership, Yost Enterprises has expanded its footprint across diverse sectors, including supportive housing, where he has created stability for underserved communities. Alongside his real estate ventures, Jeremy co-founded Savage Rep Fitness, a cutting-edge sports apparel brand empowering athletes with premium performance gear.
Jeremy’s journey is a testament to his ability to turn challenges into opportunities. Guided by key mentors and inspired by his father’s entrepreneurial spirit, he has built a legacy of growth and impact. His vision for the future includes surpassing $80 million in construction projects and adding over 1,000 units to his property management portfolio.
To connect with Jeremy, follow him on Instagram @jeremyryost or learn more about his work at www.yost-management.com and www.yms-rentals.com.
Ronnie Teja: Founder of Branzio Watches and Advocate for Privacy-First Productivity Tools
At 22, Ronnie Teja was living proof of resilience and ambition. Mornings found him picking blueberries in the Fraser Valley, afternoons selling radio advertisements, evenings navigating Vancouver’s public transit—all while dreaming of something more. Born in Jalandhar, India, Teja arrived in Canada in 2008 with his family, armed with a partially completed master’s degree from the London School of Economics and an unshakeable determination.
His early professional years were a patchwork of hustle. After brief stints in digital marketing for the Winter Olympics and leadership roles at HSBC and Best Buy Canada, Teja ventured into entrepreneurship. His first attempts—a digital agency and a men’s jewelry business—failed. But in 2015, Branzio Watches emerged as his breakthrough, a bootstrapped venture that would eventually ship timepieces to 66 countries and generate over $15 million by 2021.
Teja’s entrepreneurial philosophy crystallized through these experiences: “You make your own luck.” This belief fueled his next venture, Truly Office, a privacy-first productivity suite challenging the subscription-based software market. His goal was simple yet groundbreaking—create tools that prioritize user control and data privacy.
His journey hasn’t gone unnoticed. Teja has become a sought-after speaker at global e-commerce conferences, from Web Summit in Lisbon to Affiliate World in Dubai. Forbes and Business Insider have featured his story, and he was named among the Top 40 Under 40 in E-commerce in 2021/2022.
Explore Ronnie Teja’s ventures at Branzio Watches and Truly Office, or connect with him on LinkedIn to learn more about his journey and insights into entrepreneurship.
Jamie Rossi: Founder of The Appointment Setter, Financial Services Innovator
Jamie Rossi’s entrepreneurial journey didn’t start in a boardroom. A 10-year U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Rossi found himself working for minimum wage before rebuilding his life, discovering financial services, and ultimately building two multi-seven-figure companies.
Today, Rossi is the founder of The Appointment Setter, a company redefining success for financial agencies by delivering qualified, ready-to-meet appointments directly to their agents’ calendars. Unlike traditional lead services, Rossi’s system eliminates the inefficiencies of chasing cold leads, enabling advisors to focus on what they do best—serving clients and closing business.
“Chasing leads has become a full-time job for most financial professionals, but it doesn’t have to be,” Rossi says. “By delivering ready-to-go appointments, we give agencies and their agents back their time to focus on what matters most: serving clients and growing their business. We provide real opportunities—appointments with individuals ready to talk—so they can stop prospecting and start growing.”
The success of The Appointment Setter is powered by Seven Figure Advisor (7FA), Rossi’s proprietary CRM platform that automates workflows, integrates pre-built sales funnels, and streamlines client acquisition. Together, these tools form a scalable system that has transformed thousands of financial professionals’ businesses.
Since inception, Rossi’s platforms have scheduled over 150,000 appointments, resulting in over $100 million in commissions generated for financial agencies and their teams. This impact highlights not only the system’s effectiveness but also the substantial time savings and measurable growth it delivers for advisors.
Rossi’s story—rooted in persistence, strategic vision, and results—has positioned him as a leader in helping financial agencies achieve measurable growth. “I’ve been in the trenches, so I know the challenges advisors face,” Rossi says. “I built these solutions to provide the systems and support I wish I’d had when I was getting started.”
Tom Worcester: Founder of Lunchbox and Reading Rhythms, Community-Building Entrepreneur
Tom Worcester has distinguished himself as an innovative entrepreneur dedicated to addressing modern social challenges through creative ventures. His professional journey is defined by a commitment to fostering connection and meaningful experiences, particularly for younger generations grappling with isolation and disconnection.
In 2018, Worcester founded Lunchbox, an eCommerce brand that revolutionized the live event experience through strategic product design. The company’s anti-theft hydration packs and accessories have become essential for music festival attendees, serving over 100,000 people annually. Notably, Lunchbox has secured a significant partnership with Insomniac Events, the world’s largest electronic music festival circuit, solidifying its position in the live event market.
Worcester’s most recent venture, Reading Rhythms, launched in 2023, represents an innovative approach to community building. This concept reimagines literary engagement by combining book exploration with ambient live music in curated venues. The initiative has gained substantial recognition, hosting over 100 global events and receiving media coverage from prominent outlets including The New York Times and The Today Show. Collaborations with Grammy-winning artists and major publishers like Penguin Random House underscore the platform’s cultural significance.
Driven by personal experience with hearing loss, Worcester’s entrepreneurial approach is deeply rooted in creating spaces of belonging. His ventures consistently address the growing challenge of loneliness among Gen Z and Millennial populations, transforming social interaction through innovative platforms.
Each of Worcester’s initiatives shares a fundamental mission: to create meaningful communities that inspire genuine connection and shared experiences.
For more information, visit itsmylunchbox.com.
Thomas Carter: CEO of Deal Box and Blockchain Innovator
Thomas Carter’s career reads like a roadmap of technological innovation in finance. As CEO of Deal Box, Carter has spent over 30 years reimagining how entrepreneurs access capital, transforming complex financial landscapes into pathways of opportunity.
Founded in 2016, Deal Box represents Carter’s strategic vision for modernizing venture capital. As one of the first companies to tokenize real-world assets (RWA), Deal Box has leveraged blockchain technology to create a platform that brings unprecedented transparency to investment processes. His approach isn’t just about technology—it’s about breaking down barriers that traditionally limit startup funding.
Carter’s vision to democratize capital markets gained momentum in 2017 when he acquired Total Network Services (TNS), now known as True I/O. As Chairman, he introduced groundbreaking initiatives such as the Universal Communication Identifier (UCID) and BNS Blockchain Naming Systems, showcasing his ability to transcend conventional technological boundaries. These innovations address both simplicity and security challenges related to personal and device identity.
Most recently, Carter launched a $100 million investment fund dedicated to Web 3 and blockchain innovations that prioritize security and individual empowerment. This move underscores his commitment to supporting emerging technologies that can fundamentally reshape digital economies.
A veteran of capital markets, Carter has consistently positioned himself at the intersection of financial strategy and technological disruption. His work goes beyond individual ventures—it’s about creating systemic change that empowers entrepreneurs and streamlines complex financial ecosystems.
Michael Vernon: Championing Financial Inclusion Through Blockchain
Michael Vernon’s journey into the blockchain space began as an investor in Oduwa Blockchain Solutions. What started as a personal interest quickly evolved into a mission to address the lack of access to cryptocurrency in indigenous communities across Hawaii, Tahiti, and the broader South Pacific region. Recognizing the transformative potential of blockchain, Michael stepped up as a volunteer spokesperson, leveraging his expertise in finance and consulting to educate and empower underserved populations.
Oduwa Blockchain Solutions is redefining how people perceive and use money with its flagship product, Oduwacoin. Unlike traditional currency, Oduwacoin operates on a trustless blockchain network, eliminating counterfeiting, double spending, and government interference. Michael has become a vocal advocate for its adoption, emphasizing its role as a secure, decentralized medium of exchange that can serve as a store of value and proof of ownership. For Michael, this isn’t just about technology; it’s about creating opportunities for financial empowerment in communities that have long been excluded from the benefits of the digital economy.
In 2021, Michael’s efforts were recognized globally when he was named one of the Top 100 Global Finance Leaders. This honor highlights his commitment to using blockchain as a tool for progress. His leadership style is rooted in persistence and purpose, and his advice to entrepreneurs reflects that: “Persevere. You’ll face rejection, but one yes can change everything.”
Michael’s influence extends beyond Oduwa Blockchain Solutions. As an ambassador for financial inclusion, he continues to champion the integration of blockchain technology into everyday life. Whether mentoring young entrepreneurs or educating communities, Michael is at the forefront of a movement to ensure that digital finance is accessible to all.
Kamran Zahid: CEO of Fame Media LLC, PR Specialist, and Branding Expert
Kamran Zahid is a 21-year-old entrepreneur and the CEO of Fame Media LLC, a boutique PR and branding firm specializing in luxury and personal brands. Kamran’s story is one of resilience, resourcefulness, and a relentless pursuit of success.
Born into challenging circumstances, Kamran grew up as a refugee in Nepal before immigrating to Canada at the age of 11. Arriving in a new country without knowing how to speak English, he faced significant obstacles early on, navigating a rough childhood with determination and grit. These formative experiences instilled in him an unshakable work ethic and a drive to create a better future for himself.
Kamran’s entrepreneurial journey began at 13 when he became captivated by the possibilities of the internet. While others his age were consumed by social media, Kamran sought to understand the mechanics behind it. He started his own theme pages on Instagram, and by the time he was in high school, he had built a network of over 10 million followers. This early success not only gave him a crash course in digital marketing but also laid the foundation for his future ventures.
In 2021, Kamran launched Fame Media LLC, leveraging the connections and expertise he had cultivated during his teenage years. Today, the firm is celebrated for delivering top-tier PR campaigns for major brands and organizations such as Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) and Keller Williams. Kamran’s ability to combine creativity with strategy has made him a sought-after figure in the world of branding and media.
Kamran’s journey—from a refugee in Nepal to leading a successful PR agency embodies the transformative power of determination and vision. His story inspires others to overcome adversity, think big, and embrace the opportunities that innovation and hard work can unlock.
Nuran Rahman: Partner and Chief Marketing Officer of Fame Media LLC, Social Media Innovator
Nuran Rahman is a serial entrepreneur and the Partner and Chief Marketing Officer of Fame Media LLC, a boutique PR and branding agency renowned for its cutting-edge strategies. Based in Houston, Nuran’s passion for digital innovation and his knack for understanding social media dynamics have made him a formidable force in the industry.
An early adopter of Instagram’s potential, Nuran became obsessed with growing theme pages during his teenage years. By leveraging his keen insights into social media algorithms, he built a network of over 100 million followers across his pages. This remarkable feat not only showcased his ability to scale online communities but also gave him invaluable experience in digital marketing and the nuances of audience engagement.
Nuran’s massive network opened doors to working with personal brands at a time when organic reach on social media was much more limited. His unique approach helped numerous clients grow their online presence, solidifying his reputation as a go-to expert in the field. These early successes laid the groundwork for his role at Fame Media, where he now spearheads innovative campaigns for luxury and personal brands, ensuring they achieve maximum impact in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
As CMO, Nuran combines his technical expertise with a visionary approach, helping Fame Media secure high-profile clients and deliver exceptional results. His entrepreneurial journey reflects his relentless drive to stay ahead of trends and his commitment to creating transformative opportunities for brands in the digital age.
Written in partnership with Tom White
