As we step into 2024, the business world is brimming with leaders who are not only transforming industries but also inspiring others through their vision, innovation, and drive. These individuals are reshaping the way we think about leadership, pushing boundaries, and setting new standards of excellence. The top 10 inspiring leaders to watch this year are those who have demonstrated resilience, creativity, and a commitment to making a lasting impact. They lead by example, proving that leadership is about much more than titles—it’s about creating meaningful change.
Top 10 Inspiring Leaders Transforming Industries
Below is the list of the top 10 inspiring leaders who are paving ways for transformation in their respective industries.
1. Gellan Watt FRSA: From Creative Visionary to Serial Entrepreneur
Gellan Watt is a name synonymous with innovation and success in the start-up and agency space. Starting his career as a Creative Director and Brand Strategist, Gellan’s journey in the industry began with the founding of his first agency in 2003. This venture rapidly grew into a Top 10 UK agency, which he later merged, achieving remarkable success before Gellan and his partners exited in 2016 at a revenue close to £60 million.
Not one to rest on his laurels, Gellan continued to push the boundaries of creativity and entrepreneurship. He is one of the founders of the independent agency network ION (Ideas and Outcomes Network), which has recently completed two of a planned three agency acquisitions in 2024, with the third set to be completed in September. His strategic insight and leadership in this space, along with his work with the Alliance of Independent Agencies, have made him a key figure in the agency world.
Gellan’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond the agency world. He recently joined the co-founding team of Norvana, a healthtech start-up that is set to revolutionize the global health and wellness sector. Norvana, an AI and data-driven health app, is positioned to disrupt traditional health providers, offering personalized solutions that cater to modern wellness needs. Gellan’s involvement in this venture underscores his commitment to leveraging technology to create impactful solutions.
In addition to his role in Norvana, Gellan runs the Bravo Agency Transformation Programme, which helps agencies evolve and adapt in a rapidly changing market. His forthcoming book, The Agency Upgrade, slated for release in Q1 2025, is expected to provide valuable insights into agency transformation and growth strategies.
Gellan also serves as a Non-Executive Director and Advisor, where he continues to influence the industry with his strategic acumen and creative vision. His multifaceted career reflects a deep commitment to fostering growth and innovation across various sectors, making him a transformative leader in the modern business landscape.
LinkedIn | Gellan Watt | The Great Work Co. | Website
2. Hana Hamzeh | A Trailblazer in Media and Digital Transformation
Hana Hamzeh is a seasoned media professional with over 30 years of experience in journalism, TV broadcasting, and digital media. Her journey, which spans from field coverage to news production and digital platforms, showcases her adaptability and deep understanding of the evolving media landscape. Hana’s leadership and innovative approach have allowed her to rise from team member to team builder, becoming a prominent figure in the media world.
Hana is the founder of Fifreedomtoday, a leading Arabic news and media platform with over 1.4 million followers. Under her visionary leadership, Fifreedomtoday has become a key resource, focusing on content related to AI, Blockchain, Web3, DeFi, FinTech, financial freedom, investment, and startups. The platform plays a crucial role in equipping Arab youth with the knowledge they need to navigate the fast-changing technological landscape.
In addition to her work with Fifreedomtoday, Hana achieved a historic milestone in 2014 when she became the Editor-in-Chief and Program Manager of CNBC Arabia, making her the first Arab woman to head an economic TV channel. She took charge of the channel’s programming, news, and digital platforms, managing a team that produced over 10 hours of live content daily. Her success in maintaining objectivity and accuracy in financial reporting has set a new standard for media in the region.
Reflecting on her leadership style and the importance of teamwork, Hana says, “Failure awaits those who think they can succeed alone… Success requires a team, and a team needs a dream to create and achieve.” This quote embodies her belief in collaboration and her ability to inspire others to achieve collective success.
Hana’s focus on digital transformation has been a key part of her career. She is now dedicated to advancing the role of blockchain and AI in journalism, ensuring that the Arab world remains at the forefront of digital media innovations. Her ability to integrate these technologies into media production has helped modernize traditional journalism and push boundaries in content creation and delivery.
With a career marked by groundbreaking achievements and a forward-thinking approach, Hana Hamzeh continues to be a trailblazer, shaping the future of media in the Arab world.
3. Helen Zeitoun | Championing Human-Centric AI and Strategic Innovation
Helen Zeitoun, the trailblazing CEO of DATAE HUMANUM, has spent over 30 years at the forefront of global market research and data insights. Her career is marked by a relentless drive to create value by harmonizing technological innovation with human-centric strategies, by thought leadership namely as author of an awarded book on AI-human transformation, making her a key figure in the transformation of business models towards data-driven and ethical practices.
Throughout her career, Helen has encountered CEOs and technology leaders grappling with the complexities of AI integration. She observes, “I keep meeting CEOs ‘lost in translation’ with AI, stretched between the hyper opportunity and the potential risk, confused about the true ROI, and often uninspired by the over-functional and mechanistic recommendations of traditional consultants on AI.” Her insights into these challenges have driven her to develop a unique approach capitalizing on her own CEO experience and on academic work, that prioritizes the articulation between human and business aspects of AI adoption, aligned with the firm’s raison d’être.
Helen’s influence extends far beyond traditional business practices. She has pioneered the development of innovation labs in collaboration with institutions like MIT Sloan, the Sorbonne Neuroscience Centre and Boston University, reinforcing her commitment to advancing ethical, data-driven leadership for more sustainable value. Her work building up the Ipsos Global Science Organization has been lauded as a game-changer in the industry, promoting responsible and impactful use of data.
She further notes, “AI is such an extraordinary opportunity but is also full of fears, can create silos, can kill energy by forced processes, and is often too disconnected from the firm’s core strategy, including from the sustainability strategy.” With this understanding, Helen has crafted a customized “external eye” approach designed to help CEOs, Boards and Chief Data Officers (CDOs) navigate strategic renewal with AI. “My passion is to help large groups as well as SMEs in a completely customized 360 ‘external eye’ approach to orchestrate much more than ROI from AI, rather their strategic renewal with AI, leveraging people, planet, and consequently profit. And it works—smoothly, simply, efficiently, with respect, dignity, and a smile on all faces.”
Helen’s vision is not just about technology; it’s about fighting the over-processed and mechanistic approach to AI adoption (leading to slow adoption, leaving aside women, non-tech and older people); it’s about encouraging “living” organizations where AI is seamlessly and responsibly integrated into the fabric of the company, enhancing its strategy and aligning with people, augmenting their dignity and true re-excitement at work. Her mantra, “See, Be, Own the future with AI,” is a call for a responsible new leadership of the CEO and the Board — embracing the future of business where technology serves societies and humanity, not the other way around.
4. Dr. Desziree Richardson | Elevating Women’s Voices Globally
Dr. Desziree Richardson is a celebrated leader in global women’s empowerment, whose visionary efforts span across public speaking, media, fashion, and beauty. As the founder of the innovative platform, Face of Woha, Dr. Richardson has created a dynamic space that not only showcases women’s talents and stories but also empowers them to take center stage regardless of their background. Face of Woha is known for its public speaking events, TV productions, and a variety of products that reinforce women’s inherent power and potential.
Her commitment to women’s empowerment is deeply integrated into every facet of her work, including her role as an international speaker and branding expert. Dr. Richardson utilizes these platforms to motivate women globally, encouraging them to break barriers and pursue their dreams. Her initiatives are designed not just to celebrate achievements but to provide practical tools and a supportive community for women navigating various challenges.
One of Dr. Richardson’s notable quotes encapsulates her mission: “A man, woman, a nation, village or city unafraid to empower and uplift women and girls is among the most admired in the world.” This statement reflects her belief in the transformative power of uplifting women, which she actively promotes through her various roles and initiatives.
Dr. Richardson’s extensive work and dedication have not only earned her numerous accolades but have also made her a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration for many. Her efforts to foster a world where empowerment and equality are accessible to all women are a testament to her unwavering dedication to societal progress and gender equality.
5. Dr. Cristina Lunghi | Pioneer in Professional Equality and Inclusive AI
Dr. Cristina Lunghi, the Founder and Managing Director of Arborus, is an internationally recognized expert on professional equality and inclusion, as well as a leading advocate for inclusive Artificial Intelligence (AI). With a PhD in Law from France, she has been at the forefront of promoting equality in employment and equal opportunities across Europe and beyond since establishing Arborus in 1995.
Her long-standing commitment to gender equality is reflected in her founding of CEPD (Conseil en Egalité Professionnelle et Diversité) in 2007, an organization specializing in gender and diversity training, consultancy, and studies. In 2010, she expanded her efforts by establishing the Endowment Fund Arborus, the first European fund for professional gender equality, with international reach, certified by Bureau Veritas Certification.
Dr. Lunghi’s work has earned her key roles on various international platforms, including her role as an expert for the European Commission on equality issues and her contribution as an international expert at UN Women since 2016. She has also authored several books and guides on professional equality, notably Et si les femmes réinventaient le travail, L’égalité professionnelle en pratique, and Bleu Blanc Rose.
As co-director of the Charter for Inclusive AI, Dr. Lunghi is at the forefront of addressing the challenges posed by AI. She strongly advocates for combating biased and sexist algorithms in technology. She asserts, “The potential of artificial intelligence is immense! However, it comes with biased and highly sexist algorithms. This calls for new forms of mobilization, activism, and perhaps even a new wave of feminism.” To tackle these societal challenges, she has proposed the International Charter for Inclusive AI and the GEEIS AI Certification, which aim to implement inclusive coding principles to create fair and unbiased AI systems.
Dr. Cristina Lunghi’s career is a testament to her tireless dedication to advancing gender equality in the workplace and ensuring that emerging technologies like AI are designed to be inclusive and equitable for all.
LinkedIn | Arborus | Charter for Inclusive AI
6. Akinwole II Omoboriowo: Illuminating Africa’s Energy Future
Akinwole II Omoboriowo (AOII) stands as a pivotal figure in Africa’s oil, gas, and power sectors, leading transformative initiatives as the Chairman and CEO of Genesis Energy Group. With over two decades of experience, he has been instrumental in actualizing Genesis’ mission of “Lighting up Africa, One community at a time,” overseeing the company’s expansion to over 100MW of operational assets and more than $150 million in energy sector investments.
Akinwole’s academic credentials are as distinguished as his professional achievements. He holds a degree in Economics from the University of Jos, with further specialization in Electricity Pricing & Modeling from the London Business School. In 2011, he earned a Post-Graduate Diploma in Strategy & Innovation from Oxford’s Saïd Business School, where he now shares his expertise as a lecturer, particularly in the context of African markets and infrastructure development.
His career has been marked by leadership in pioneering Independent Power Producing companies and thriving utility companies across Africa. In addition to his role at Genesis, he has served as Chairman of Bissau Electricidade de Agua in Guinea-Bissau and CEO of Petroleum Projects International, solidifying his influence in the continent’s energy sector.
Under Akinwole’s leadership, Genesis Energy Group now operates in nine African countries, with plans to extend its reach to 20 countries by the end of the decade. The company has a robust pipeline of energy projects totaling over 4GW, including 500MW contracted and 58MW under construction. His strategic vision has earned him recognition as one of “The Most Influential Figures across Africa in Power.”
Reflecting on his mission, Akinwole has said, “Innovation is the engine that drives progress, and strategic thinking is the fuel that powers it. Africa’s future lies in our ability to harness these forces to transform our continent.” His unwavering commitment to Africa’s development continues to drive the growth of sustainable energy solutions across the continent.
LinkedIn | Genesis Energy | Website
7. Liesa Euton | Leadership Development Expert | Women’s Empowerment Advocate
Leadership and professional development are crucial fields we should focus on in the current business world. In this regard, Liesa Euton is leading, particularly when we talk about empowering women in this field globally. Liesa Euton is the Director for the MENA & Caribbean regions at EHP International and has pioneered innovative Women’s Leadership workshops focused on empowering women and providing them with critical leadership skills. Her professional roles also extend to being an international speaker, and radio & TV presenter.
Liesa Euton is deeply committed to nurturing female leadership, a commitment that is reflected in her workshops and training solutions. These programs are designed to support women at various levels, from C-suite executives to small business owners, helping them advance in their careers and enhance their organizations’ success. Under her guidance, EHP International has become a beacon for female empowerment, breaking traditional barriers and fostering an environment where women can thrive in leadership roles. “We believe in equipping women with the tools they need to shatter the proverbial glass ceiling and take charge of their futures,” Liesa states. Through her efforts, Liesa continues to inspire a new generation of women to rise to leadership positions and drive meaningful change in their communities and beyond.
In addition to women’s empowerment, Liesa also focuses on bridging the gap between leadership and corporate sustainability. Through EHP International’s Corporate Sustainability Mindset Training, she helps organizations instill eco-friendly workplace practices. EHP has been a key player in providing sustainability training for businesses across various industries, empowering employees to incorporate green practices into their daily operations. These training programs are tailored to align with a company’s ESG goals and vision, promoting not just a “change” mindset but also a shift in workplace behaviours toward sustainability.
Founded in 1995, EHP International offers customizable training solutions for companies of all sizes and industries, ranging from hotels and banking to logistics and garment merchandising. EHP has a team of International Trainers in Asia, the Middle East, Africa and the Caribbean.
Under the leadership of Raju and Liesa, EHP’s corporate training programs ensure employees are actively engaged, fostering a culture of sustainability that is integrated into both professional and personal spaces. The organization also offers its training services in multiple languages, ensuring global reach and impact.
Through the EHP Team of International trainers’ dedication to leadership development and sustainable business practices, EHP International has become a trusted partner for companies seeking to empower their workforce and adopt environmentally responsible operations.
LinkedIn | EHP International | Company LinkedIn.
8. Roula El Hachem | A Visionary Entrepreneur in the Hospitality Industry
At just 23, Roula El Hachem founded Dumont International for Business and Trading, a consultancy specializing in hotel furnishings. What started as a small business quickly expanded across Lebanon and the Gulf region, becoming a trusted partner for hospitality brands seeking a perfect blend of aesthetic design and functionality. Roula’s hands-on approach ensures that each project, from luxurious fabrics to bespoke furnishings, reflects the unique vision and brand identity of her clients
Dumont International is known for more than just hotel furnishings. Roula has cultivated a holistic consultancy, offering a comprehensive interior design service that elevates guest experiences while maximizing operational efficiency. Her team works closely with clients to craft personalized design plans, ensuring every detail enhances the atmosphere and functionality of each space. Through her factory, she produces high-quality fabrics, clothing, and textiles, guaranteeing that curtains, bed linens, and upholstery meet the highest standards.
In response to the growing needs of her clients, Roula expanded her offerings to include renovation and construction services. By managing projects from concept to completion, she is able to deliver full-spectrum solutions, covering everything from initial design to large-scale project execution. This move has further cemented her leadership in the hospitality sector, showcasing her ability to integrate multiple facets of the industry under one umbrella.
Recently, Roula launched an amenities and personal care product line, adding yet another layer to her diverse range of services. Dumont International can now furnish a hotel from A to Z, offering custom linens, mattresses, sanitary products, and luxury toiletries. This seamless integration of services demonstrates Roula’s visionary leadership and deep understanding of the hospitality industry’s needs.
Roula El Hachem’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation, hard work, and leadership. Her ability to grow a business that delivers unparalleled quality and service has made her a trailblazer in her field, proving that success knows no age limit. Today, Dumont International stands as a dynamic force in the industry, and Roula continues to inspire with her forward-thinking approach and unwavering commitment to excellence.
9. Dr. Marika Crohns: A Beacon of Leadership and Innovation in Healthcare
Dr. Marika Crohns, MD, PhD, stands as a towering figure in the global healthcare landscape, with a career that spans over three decades. Her journey is not just one of professional success but one of relentless dedication to transforming healthcare. Dr. Crohns is celebrated for her extraordinary blend of medical expertise and extensive commercial acumen, a combination that has enabled her to lead with both vision and empathy.
From the early stages of her career, Dr. Crohns demonstrated a unique ability to see beyond the status quo, identifying gaps in healthcare delivery and innovating solutions that prioritize patient outcomes. Her leadership has been instrumental in driving forward healthcare initiatives that have had a profound impact on both clinical practice and healthcare policy.
One of the hallmarks of Dr. Crohns’ leadership is her commitment to mentorship. Recognizing that the future of healthcare depends on the next generation of leaders, she has dedicated significant effort to nurturing talent within her teams. Her approach to mentorship goes beyond mere guidance; she actively invests in the personal and professional growth of her colleagues, empowering them to take on leadership roles with confidence and competence.
In addition to her mentorship, Dr. Crohns is known for her visionary approach to integrating technology into healthcare. She has been at the forefront of adopting cutting-edge technologies, such as AI and telemedicine, to enhance patient care and streamline healthcare operations. Her strategic foresight has positioned her organizations at the leading edge of healthcare innovation, setting new standards for others to follow.
Dr. Crohns’ leadership is also deeply rooted in empathy. She understands that at the heart of healthcare are the patients, and she has consistently advocated for patient-centered care. Her ability to balance the demands of a rapidly evolving healthcare industry with the need for compassionate care has earned her immense respect from her peers and those she serves.
As a C-suite executive, Dr. Crohns has not only led her organizations to commercial success but has also championed initiatives that have improved healthcare access and equity. Her influence extends beyond the boardroom, as she actively participates in shaping healthcare policy, ensuring that the systems in place serve the best interests of patients and healthcare providers alike.
Dr. Marika Crohns is more than a leader; she is an inspiration. Her career is a testament to the power of visionary leadership, where innovation, empathy, and mentorship converge to create a lasting impact. Her work continues to inspire healthcare professionals worldwide, proving that true leadership in healthcare is about making a difference that transcends the boundaries of the industry.
10. Joseph Frankie III | Elevating Careers through LinkedIn Strategy and Leadership
Joseph Frankie III, a retired U.S. Army Colonel and founder of JFIII Associates LLC, brings over 30 years of leadership and strategic experience from his military service to the private sector. His distinguished career has taken him across the globe, where he developed a deep understanding of leadership, team dynamics, and effective communication—skills he now channels into career coaching. Through JFIII Associates, Joseph specializes in guiding professionals on how to leverage LinkedIn for career growth and personal branding.
Joseph’s coaching style is unique, having successfully coached more than 700 executives, veterans, and students to elevate their professional presence. He firmly believes that a well-curated LinkedIn profile is a critical tool for success, once famously stating, “If it’s not on your LinkedIn profile, it never happened.” Inspired by the legendary baseball player Dizzy Dean’s philosophy, Joseph emphasizes the importance of owning your achievements and showcasing them authentically to make a lasting impact.
Beyond optimizing profiles, Joseph’s expertise lies in helping professionals at various career stages, from new graduates seeking their first role to seasoned veterans eyeing their next move. His deep sector knowledge allows him to guide clients through complex transitions, whether they’re switching industries, seeking promotion, or pivoting to new fields entirely. His coaching is personalized, offering strategies tailored to each client’s unique goals.
As the leader of JFIII Associates, Joseph continues to empower individuals to achieve their full potential through networking and personal branding, particularly via LinkedIn. His insights and strategies underscore the importance of building a strong digital footprint in today’s competitive job market, helping professionals stand out and reach their goals.
Website | LinkedIn | JFIII Associates | Twitter | Facebook
Conclusion
In 2024, the top 10 inspiring leaders to watch are not only shaping the present but also building the future. Their stories serve as a reminder that true leadership is about vision, perseverance, and the ability to inspire others to reach new heights. As these trailblazers continue to innovate and break barriers, they will leave a lasting legacy, not just in their industries, but in the broader world of business. Watching their journeys unfold will undoubtedly inspire others to follow in their footsteps, embracing bold ideas and driving meaningful change.
