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From Syria’s former militant turned politician, Ahmed al-Sharaa, to Epstein accuser Virginia Giuffre, here are five influential figures shaping 2025.
Ahmed al-Sharaa
Once a militant known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, Syrians now see Ahmed al-Sharaa as a political figure, having undergone a remarkable transformation since replacing long-time leader Bashar al-Assad.
On December 8, 2024, Sharaa entered Damascus after leading a swift offensive from their northwest stronghold, marking the end of nearly 14 years of civil war.
He swapped his military fatigues for suits, settling into the presidential palace where Bashar Assad—who fled to Russia—and his family had ruled for decades.
Sharaa quickly solidified power: he was appointed interim president for a five-year transition and formed a government where allies hold key positions, even though parts of Syria remain outside their control.
Despite some sectarian tensions this year, many in the international community have warmly welcomed him. His November visit to the White House signified a significant acknowledgment for a man once targeted with a $10 million bounty by the U.S.
MrBeast
In 2025, the world’s leading online content creator expanded into new ventures, including an amusement park, a TV series, and a line of toys.
With over 450 million subscribers, Jimmy Donaldson, aka MrBeast, has built an empire around his personality, featuring a chocolate brand, restaurant chain, and even an Amazon Prime series.
The 27-year-old American influencer even made headlines as a potential bidder to acquire TikTok in the U.S.
Initially gaining fame through travel or prank videos, his concept has now shifted toward competitive events with multimillion-dollar prizes. One such event replicated the hit TV show “Squid Game.”
His “Would You Risk Your Life for $500,000?” video, featuring a stuntman trapped in a burning building, drew some criticism for endangering participants for entertainment.
In 2023, Time magazine named him among the world’s most influential people. Forbes estimates his fortune at approximately half a billion dollars.
Maria Corina Machado
Venezuela’s opposition leader in exile, Maria Corina Machado, remains a fearless critic of the authoritarian regime, earning her the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize.
At 58, she boldly challenges President Nicolás Maduro—accused of electoral fraud and imprisoning political rivals—and his predecessor Hugo Chávez.
Her outspoken stance has drawn scrutiny, especially regarding her ties to Europe’s far-right and U.S. politics. She’s expressed support for American military operations in the Caribbean, where strikes on suspected drug shipments have reportedly resulted in over 80 deaths since September.
With an engineering background, Machado captivates crowds with compelling speeches. She was the opposition’s candidate in the 2024 elections but was later disqualified from running. Instead, she campaigned for her replacement, the lesser-known diplomat Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia.
MADURO claimed victory, but few countries officially recognized his win. Gonzalez Urrutia fled to Spain; Machado continues to lead the resistance in hiding. She told AFP in October, “I will be wherever I can serve my country best.”
Oleksandr Usyk
Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Usyk proved his greatness in 2025 by becoming a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion in July, defeating Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium.
The 38-year-old asserts his victories are a tribute to Ukraine and its fighters, especially amid ongoing conflict with Russia.
“Thanks to all of Ukraine and everyone defending our nation. I’ve received countless messages from soldiers on the front lines,” he said. “You guys are incredible, and you make all of this possible.”
Having won all 24 of his professional fights, Usyk continues to support Ukraine—raising funds and speaking out—while having chosen not to take direct combat roles himself.
He dedicated money to rebuild the home of Oleksiy Dzhunkivskyi, a friend and former teammate shot dead by Russian forces near Kyiv.
“Over the last three years, my foundation has raised millions of euros to support the military, reconstruction efforts, and humanitarian aid,” he shared in March.
Virginia Giuffre
Virginia Giuffre, a central figure in exposing Jeffrey Epstein and allegations against Britain’s Prince Andrew, tragically died by suicide at 41 this April.
She spent nearly 15 years speaking out about her abuse, asserting she was raped by Epstein as a minor and exploited by his powerful friends, including the former prince.
Epstein died in a New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. His associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, is currently serving 20 years in prison, and Prince Andrew has lost all his royal titles.
Former President Donald Trump, who was once close to Epstein, continues to deny involvement. Giuffre later started a family in Australia and founded “Speak Out, Act, Reclaim,” a support group for victims of sexual abuse. Her memoirs were published after her death.
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