Who says you have to be a certain age to make a difference? The movers and shakers on our second annual 40 Under 40 list are influencing the world in powerful ways. Whether it’s through entrepreneurship, activism, entertainment or athletics, these young Black professionals are killing the game.
Cameka Smith, 36, Founder of The BOSS Network
Celebrating its fifth anniversary this year, The BOSS (Bringing Out Successful Sisters) Network is still fulfilling Smith’s vision as a “one-stop shop for women” to grow through networking and professional development. thebossnetwork.org
Christina Lewis Halpern, 34, Tech guru
The philanthropist recently added a Summer Intensive program to her All Star Code non-profit, which introduces young minority males to the tech industry. allstarcode.org
Jordan Williams and Brandon Iverson, 16, Mini-moguls
The teens launched an urban clothing line, Young Moguls Brand, this summer and also run Making Money for Teens, a financial literary site for teens. youngmogulsbrand.com
Valentine Ollawa, 25, Fashion entrepreneur
Think Rent the Runway–but for men. NextSuit is a website that enables young professionals to rent suits for a month. NextSuit.com
Chase Reed, 16, Sneaker head
Earlier this year, the then 10th-grader opened the first sneaker pawnshop in Harlem, which allows customers to pawn, trade and sell their kicks. sneakerpawnusa.com
Glenn Harston, 39, PR professional
As founder of The Gemini Group, a communications and PR firm that focuses on the urban market, his past work includes President Obama’s Illinois campaigns. thegeminigroupmp.com
Samanta Joseph, 36, Shoe lover
Designing shoes since she was a child, her large-size footwear for women has been worn by celebrities such as Rihanna and Queen Latifah. SamantaShoes.com
Jordyn Gaines, 20, Baker
The self-taught artist began baking at age 16 and opened her storefront JordyCakes Custom Cake & Cupcake Boutique this February. jordycakesboutique.com
Reuben Reuel, 28, Trendsetter
Demestiks NewYork became a recognizable name when Beyonce wore the label this July. Reuel’s clothing line uses African prints in modern ways. etsy.com/shop/DemestiksNewYork
Cory Nieves, 10, Cookie maker
Beginning in 2009, Mr. Cory’s Cookies sells all-natural cookies in nine different varieties. The fifth-grader is currently working to make his cookie dough available online. mrcoryscookies.com
Check back tomorrow to view our 40 Under 40 activists! Missed yesterday’s post? Learn more about our 40 Under 40 athletes HERE!
