INTERNATIONAL BLACK HERITAGE MONTH
2025 CHANGEMAKER LIST
International Black Heritage Month (IBHM) proudly announces the Changemaker List 2025, highlighting innovative pioneers who disrupt the status quo in Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion and strive for an inclusive world.
“In today’s world with constant change and challenges, it’s more important than ever to spotlight those who are actively creating solutions, pushing inclusive change, and have built cultural bridges. We’re proud that last year, we honored the late legendary Quincy Jones for his significant cultural and social impact, which reminds us why this list is so important. These changemakers show us that positive change and progress are possible when purpose meets action, and by sharing their stories, we’re spotlighting that vision, leadership, and impact deserve year-round recognition,” Bruce Reynolds, founder of International Black Heritage Month (IBHM).
EQUITY CHANGEMAKERS:
Changemakers whose actions disrupted the status quo and addressed Equity:
Rokhaya Diallo (Writer. Filmmaker. Journalist)
Honored for her work as a journalist, author, and documentarian. Born in Paris, France, to Senegalese and Gambian parents, Rokhaya Diallo addresses structures that marginalize, silence and exclude. An influential voice on racial justice, gender equity, and systemic inequality in Europe and beyond. Her work spans global media platforms, academic institutions, and grassroots movements — all rooted in a deep commitment to truth, dignity, and justice.
Trevor Noah (Comedian. Writer. Producer. Philanthropist)
Honored for his work through the Trevor Noah Foundation, Noah transforms challenges into action by funding education programs that empower under-resourced youth in historically disadvantaged African communities. Trevor Noah uses comedy, global insight, and unflinching honesty to challenge inequality and expand the conversations about race, identity, and justice. Born under apartheid in South Africa, Trevor brings lived experiences to make a difference.
Rosie Gordon-Wallace (Curator. Advocate. Pioneer)
Honored for creating the Diaspora Vibe Cultural Arts Incubator. Rosie Gordon-Wallace has spent decades championing artists of the African diaspora, using the power of visual culture to shift narratives and reclaim space. As founder of the Diaspora Vibe Cultural Arts Incubator, she has created platforms that elevate underrepresented voices, foster cross-cultural dialogue, and redefine equity in the arts. Her work goes beyond exhibitions — it builds ecosystems of access, opportunity, and justice through creativity.
Shelley Zalis (Entrepreneur. Innovator. Community Builder)
Honored for creating The Female Quotient, Shelley Zalis is redefining what equity looks like in boardrooms, conferences, and C-suites worldwide. As founder of The Female Quotient, Zalis has created a global movement that advances gender and racial equity through visibility, collaboration, and action. With her signature Equality Lounges™, she has transformed male-dominated spaces into inclusive platforms for conversation and change.
DIVERSITY CHANGEMAKERS:
Changemakers whose actions disrupted the status quo and address Diversity:
Rihanna (Singer. Businesswoman. Actress. Philanthropist)
Honored for her Fenty brand portfolio that champions diversity, Robyn Rihanna Fenty has redefined what it means to be a changemaker in the 21st century. From shattering beauty industry standards with Fenty Beauty and championing diversity in fashion with Savage X Fenty, Rihanna has turned her platforms into engines of equity, empowerment, and change. A trailblazing entrepreneur, cultural force, and philanthropist through claralionelfoundation.org, Rihanna uses her global influence to uplift underrepresented voices and reshape industries.
Shonda Rhimes (Writer. Producer. Director)
Honored for diverse and impactful storytelling, Shonda Lynn Rhimes has transformed television by placing diverse voices, complex characters, and untold narratives at the center of primetime viewing. As the creator of groundbreaking shows like Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, and Bridgerton, she has redefined representation on screen and behind the scenes. Her production company, Shondaland, has opened doors for women and creators of color in an industry long dominated by sameness.
Kelsey Grammer (Actor. Producer)
Honored for championing diversity on TV. Kelsey Grammer isn’t just Frasier Crane, he’s a quiet force for cultural change. As an executive producer, Grammer was instrumental in bringing groundbreaking, Black-led shows like Girlfriends with 172 episodes and The Game to the forefront, expanding representation and reshaping television. Using his influence to amplify diverse voices and stories, he helped bring diversity to mainstream TV long before it became a trend.
Dr. Trisha Bailey (Entrepreneur. Philanthropist. Author)
Honored for her visionary leadership, Dr. Trisha Bailey’s is a testament to the power of perseverance and purpose. Born in Jamaica, Dr Bailey is the first Black woman to own a billion-dollar company outright. Through a portfolio spanning healthcare and global investments, Dr. Bailey has built an empire that centers on community uplift, economic equity, and long-term impact. Her bestselling memoir, Unbroken, chronicles her deeply personal story of triumph over trauma with faith.
INCLUSION CHANGEMAKERS:
Changemakers whose early-stage actions disrupt the future status quo and address inclusion:
Mellody Hobson (Business Leader. Investor. Author)
Honored for championing financial literacy, Mellody Hobson has broken barriers in business, inclusion, and boardrooms, becoming the Only Black Female to Chair an S&P 500 Company. As Co-CEO of Ariel Investments, Hobson has championed financial literacy, diversity in leadership, and economic empowerment for underrepresented communities for decades. Known for calling out the dangers of “colorblindness” in corporate culture, Hobson recently invested in women’s professional sports, signaling a new chapter in leveling the playing field.
Steven Bartlett (Investor, Innovator. Disrupter)
Honored for his commitment to uplifting underrepresented business founders and fostering inclusive business practices, Steven Bartlett is a powerhouse entrepreneur and a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree. Born in Botswana and raised in England by his Nigerian mother and English father, Bartlett has created and launched many successful ventures spanning media, technology, and digital innovation. Through his acclaimed podcast, The Diary of a CEO, he fosters authentic conversations on mental health, diversity, business and leadership.
Linett Kamala (Artist. Educator. DJ)
Honored for her pioneering work and company, the LIN KAM ART, where she engages with thousands of people each year through residences, festivals, sound system culture, events, workshops, and programs for those underrepresented in the Arts. Linett Kamala blends art, education, and activism to create spaces where inclusion thrives. Breaking barriers as a teenager, at just 15 years old, Linett was the first female DJ to play at the world-famous Notting Hill Carnival. Kamala has redefined what breaking barriers and leadership looks like in the UK’s creative and cultural sectors.
Paula Cardoso (Digital innovator. Journalist. Author)
Honored for reshaping the narrative around Black identity and representation in Portugal and Portuguese-speaking communities. Paula Cardoso is the creator and founder of Afrolink, a pioneering digital platform and business network that amplifies the voices and visibility of African and Afro-descendant professionals. Cardoso is also the presenter of RTP África’s Black Excellence Talk and brings inclusion and change through her children’s book series Força Africana, which introduces young readers to empowering stories that reflect their heritage.