From entrepreneurs and entertainment professionals to digital influencers, models, and designers, here we highlight a diverse group of individuals who are on the rise in their careers and endeavors. They are pursuing their dreams with fervent passion, aiming to leave an everlasting mark in their respective industries and on our world.
Alpha Dia
Fashion Model
“I never knew I was poor until I left my community. The support within the community prevented me from feeling deprived during my youth. I want to demonstrate this support in my social life. When responding to people on my social media, I strive to make them feel valued and special because everyone needs that from time to time.”
Andrew M. Gray
Actor & Entrepreneur
“My career has been shaped by a foundation of boldness, inspiration, and a free-spirited approach. The impact it has had on me has been both challenging and enlightening. It is of utmost importance for me to carefully consider how business ventures and platforms are conceived and presented to the individuals who follow my lead. I have dedicated ample time to contemplating the development of my multifaceted career and its implications for others, as my ultimate goal is to see others succeed alongside me.”
Erika De La Cruz
Editor in Chief The LA Girl
“I strive to remind people, through their social media feeds, that anything is possible. My goal is to empower and make my audience feel seen. Even the smallest things, like my clothes or the books that bring ME joy, can influence others to discover valuable resources. I am mindful and authentic in sharing my ideas, experiences, and personality. If it resonates with someone else, it’s amazing. However, I always say ‘take what works, leave what doesn’t and I’ll repurpose my discoveries along the way.’”
Ashley Nichole
Lifestyle Influencer + Co-founder Parallel Apparel
“At the start of my content creation journey on YouTube 9 years ago, I learned the valuable lesson of finding my own voice. The videos I made for myself never performed as well as the trendy ones, but they brought me happiness and set my content apart from the rest, and I loved that! Now, those more creative and aesthetic videos have become my brand and an integral part of my storytelling process.
Joselyn Valdez
Digital Creator
“Being a person of influence means making a positive impact on others through actions, words, or ideas. Influential individuals on social media can inspire, educate, and motivate thousands of followers, using their platforms to empower others and drive positive change. Ultimately, being a person of influence is about making a difference in the world and using one’s influence to promote good causes for a better future.”
Jamar Hart
Model & Fashion Stylist
“Being a person of influence to me means having the ability to make a positive impact on others through my actions and words. When I model for a brand and embody their message, it means that I am representing their values and beliefs in the most authentic way possible, which helps me connect with audiences. It’s not just about gaining followers or being popular, but it’s about using my platform to inspire others and make a difference in their lives. It requires a deep sense of responsibility and humility, because with great influence comes great responsibility. Overall, being a person of influence is about being a role model and using my voice to promote positive change in the world.”
Dai Time
Digital Creator
“Being an influencer is something I genuinely enjoy doing every day. I strive to inspire others in a fun and motivational manner, especially when they may be feeling less motivated.”
Zach Miko
Model & Entrepreneur
“My goal has always been to be the kind of person I needed growing up. I hope the people who follow me find safety, love, understanding, and comfort in what I do. I want you to know that you are beautiful just as you are right now. You have the ability to pursue what makes your heart sing. Kindness is not something of a bygone age.”
Victoria Alvarez
Beauty & Lifestyle Digital Creator
“Instead of waiting for external circumstances to determine our fate, we can take control of our lives and work towards our goals. It’s a reminder that we have the ability to shape our own destiny through our actions and choices, and that our future is not predetermined by our past or present circumstances.”
Malvika Sheth
Digital Creator
“Being a person of influence means recognizing the gift(s) you’ve been given, and using them, responsibly, to serve. I show up as myself because that is my responsibility—to serve as an example of an empowered woman so I can empower others to embrace their own uniqueness. The younger me sought an empowered South Asian woman who fearlessly embraced herself, gave advice, and didn’t change for the world.”
This article feature is from our annual special edition issue, the L.A. STYLE Magazine Most Influential of 2023.
