Top 10 Impactful People Heating Up Summer 2024

From influencers and TV hosts to music producers and aestheticians, these are the people you should be following.

By Tom White with APG Apr 26, 2024 1:00 PMTags
Paid Content Ascend Agency Liz EsweinLiz Eswein

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1. Liz Eswein: Meet the co-founder of New York or Nowhere, Liz Eswein. You may also know her as @newyorkcity on Instagram with a towering 1.5 million+ followers. She has established a strong presence for her brand not only in New York City, but worldwide. Through a combination of original content, iconic collaborations, and engaging events, New York or Nowhere celebrates the diversity, creativity, and resilience that define the city's essence. From highlighting vibrant neighborhoods to showcasing storied landmarks, the brand encapsulates the spirit of New York.

Working alongside her predominantly female team, Liz has cultivated enduring partnerships with prestigious entities such as the New York Knicks and the TCS New York Marathon. Additionally, she is gearing up to launch several exciting new collaborations later this year, further expanding the brand's reach and impact.

Liz's contributions and leadership have not gone unnoticed, as she has been recognized as one of Adweek's 40 Young Influentials Under 40 and featured in Ad Age's Women to Watch list. Her recent inclusion in Inc. magazine's 2023 Female Founders: Women Building the Companies of Tomorrow further underscores her status as a dynamic entrepreneur and innovator in the industry.

A Jewellers

2. A Jewellers: Among various music and sports brands in the U.K., A Jewellers is rising in popularity, known for its luxurious and unique jewelry designs. Started by an individual with a passion for hip-hop culture and art, the brand has become synonymous with luxury, craftsmanship, and bespoke jewelry.

Beginning with sketching symbols of hip-hop on chains, the founder's hobby evolved into a pursuit of perfection in jewelry making. After a decade of learning and exploration, A Jewellers transitioned from trading to branding, acquiring expertise in diamonds, gemstones, and timepieces.

The brand's rise was strategic, focusing on refreshing its image and building strong connections with clients, including global sports icons and music sensations like Burna Boy. Now associated with celebrities, A Jewellers aims to break into the U.S. market in the next 5 to 10 years, showcasing quality, design, and a unique client experience to elevate its global presence.

Lucky Church

3. Lucky Church: Lucky Church's journey began as the charismatic frontman of The J.U.S. Evolution, igniting a passion for entertainment that led to unexpected heights. Transitioning seamlessly from rock star to executive, he showcased innate talents as a relationship builder, project manager, and publicist. This remarkable evolution garnered recognition across various titles and stands as a testament to embracing change. His consulting expertise extended to prestigious brands like Haddad Brands, Fat Joe, Wu-Tang Clan, and more, leaving an indelible mark on each project. Featured in Forbes and Black Enterprise, Lucky's impact on the industry was undeniable.

Joining Lizzie Grubman Public Relations in 2015 as Director of Concierge Services and Client Relations, he leveraged partnerships in the NFL, NBA and NYFW, exceeding expectations and solidifying his reputation as a visionary leader. Collaborating with partner Ty Hunter, they orchestrated campaigns for industry giants like Burberry, Showtime, Billy Porter, and VH1. Their dynamic partnership breathed life into brands, leaving an unforgettable imprint. Beyond his career, Lucky is deeply committed to culture preservation and philanthropy, serving on advisory boards for the International Salsa Museum and Shaping Futures Foundation. He also serves as brand manager for Elliot Carlyle, CEO of CURRENT•LY Global.

As CEO of Lucky Church LLC in NYC, Lucky continues to expand his influence. In September 2023, he achieved a significant milestone, receiving an honorary doctorate in Entertainment Management from Harvest Christian University in Dallas. Lucky was also given the prestigious President's Volunteer Service Award's Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring two decades of unwavering dedication to community service. In his own words, "Trust your journey and know that what's meant for you will be yours." Lucky Church's path is a testament to the remarkable possibilities that arise when passion meets purpose.

Paperboy Fabe

4. Paperboy Fabe: Paperboy Fabe exemplifies independence in the music industry. With no backing from any major record labels or publishing companies, Fabe has charted his own path, achieving significant milestones through self-funding and support of a solid fanbase. He discovered and developed notable talents including Brent Faiyaz, Chloe x Halle, and Bibi Bourelly, helping them find their voices in the music world; now, he is on his own journey as an artist.

Fabe's approach towards music is rooted in longevity and substance, asserting, "my job was never to just make hit records, it's to make classics that stand the test of time." This commitment to creating timeless music inspired him to disrupt the traditional role of producers behind-the-scenes by bringing real stories—his stories—to the forefront through the voices of other artists. Fabe is not only redefining the sound of R&B but also its purpose and impact—emphasizing experiences that resonate with the everyday person.

As an independent producer-artist, Fabe's achievements are impressive. With over 1 billion streams attributed to his collaborations and more than 200 million streams as an independent artist, his work resonates on a global scale. His accolades include two Grammy nominations and recognition from industry leaders like Dr. Dre. His notable productions, including "Rehab" by Brent Faiyaz and "Demonz" by Juice WRLD, have been pivotal in shaping modern R&B.

Julia Krispeal

5. Julia Krispeal: Julia Krispeal's journey is a testament to resilience, entrepreneurship, and unwavering determination. As a devoted mother of two boys, she embodies the strength and love that accompanies parenthood. Her life took a challenging turn when her late husband battled ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) with remarkable courage for 6 1/2 years before his passing in August 2022, leaving behind a legacy of bravery.

Despite the hardships she faced, Julia's story is defined by how she rose above adversity. With over two decades of experience in corporate meeting planning, she has established herself as a formidable presence in the real estate world, particularly on picturesque Long Island, N.Y. Her success in this competitive industry is a testament to her business acumen, unwavering dedication, and genuine passion for helping others find their dream homes and investments. What truly distinguishes Julia is her unwavering commitment to inspire and motivate others. She firmly believes that life's challenges can serve as stepping stones to success.

Drawing from her personal experiences and triumphs, Julia aims to uplift those navigating their own struggles, demonstrating that resilience and determination can overcome even the most daunting obstacles. Julia Krispeal's journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Her website is a valuable platform for sharing not only real estate insights but also wisdom, motivation, and ALS awareness. Whether you're seeking advice on real estate, inspiration to overcome hardships, tips on widowhood, or simply a dose of positivity, Julia's platform offers a wealth of empowering content. Embark on a journey of inspiration, empowerment, and the unwavering belief that you can conquer anything life throws your way, guided by Julia Krispeal's remarkable story.

Marcus Stewart

6. Marcus Stewart: Marcus Stewart has been a consistent presence on television since around 2012, starting with his appearance on the Bravo TV reality show Dukes of Melrose. Following that, he established himself as "the Fashion Doctor" and contributed to numerous style segments. He also served as the in-house style expert for The Better Show and later transitioned to become the style expert and correspondent for Celebrity Page TV.

Since 2020, Marcus has not been active on TV, marking a gap of four years. During this time, he has undergone noticeable changes in appearance. Despite his extensive fashion experience from working at renowned publications like Vogue and GQ, as well as with brands like Dolce & Gabbana, Marcus is eager to delve into topics beyond fashion, although he acknowledges his ability to excel in that area.

Currently signed with LA MODELS, and having recently relocated to L.A., Marcus still maintains a residence in NYC, providing him with flexibility to travel as needed for work opportunities. While Marcus can act, he is primarily focused on being himself and building his brand with a keen interest in personality work, hosting and correspondent roles.

Paula Shuster

7. Paula Shuster: Welcome to the world of aesthetic enhancement! Paula Shuster is passionate about helping women discover their beauty potential and feel their absolute best with her business Ace Aesthetics. As an aesthetic injector, she blends artistry with science to create natural, radiant transformations that empower her clients to exude confidence in every aspect of their lives.

Paula's journey into this profession stems from a deep-seated desire to uplift and celebrate the unique beauty of every individual. With a background in ER/trauma and comprehensive training in aesthetics, coupled with experience training professionals nationwide in aesthetic techniques, she brings both expertise and empathy to every consultation and treatment.

For Paula, it's not just about enhancing physical appearance; it's about nurturing self-esteem, and promoting self-care. Paula believes that when we feel good about ourselves on the outside, it radiates from within, impacting every facet of our lives. Each client is a canvas for Paula, and she approaches every treatment with a personalized touch, tailoring solutions to their specific needs and desires. Whether it's smoothing away fine lines, restoring volume, or sculpting facial contours, she prioritizes, safety, efficacy, and natural-looking results above all else.

Beyond the needles and fillers, Paula strives to cultivate a warm, welcoming environment where clients feel heard, understood, and supported on their beauty journey. Her goal is not just to enhance appearances but to foster a sense of empowerment and self-assurance that transcends physical transformations. Join Paula on this empowering journey of self-discovery and rejuvenation, where together, you'll unlock the full potential of your beauty and radiate confidence from the inside out.

Kate Ford

8. Kate Ford: Kate Ford turned her early passion for makeup into a flourishing beauty business with Kate Ford Beauty, nestled in North Babylon, N.Y. Her studio, known for its intimate and welcoming atmosphere, specializes in bridal and special event makeup and hairstyling. The venture began at her junior prom, where a disappointing makeup session led Kate to take matters into her own hands, redoing her makeup to her satisfaction. This experience was well-received, prompting her to handle makeup for friends and sparking her career in beauty.

After recognizing her passion, Kate pursued formal training and eventually expanded her skills to include hairstyling. She honed her talents at cosmetology school, earning her license and mastering services that cater to a diverse range of beauty needs. Today, Kate Ford Beauty operates both from her home-based studio and on location, focusing on providing personalized attention to each client. Kate's dedication to bridal beauty plays a crucial role in preparing brides for their big day, ensuring flawless results.

Beyond daily operations, she aims to mentor a successor to manage her New York operations, allowing her to expand her business into new markets like Florida. This vision for growth promises to extend Kate Ford Beauty's reach and foster new talent within the industry. At Kate Ford Beauty, each brush stroke is a step towards perfection, and client satisfaction remains a top priority. Whether for a wedding or a special event, Kate's expert touch promises to elevate natural beauty to new heights, making each occasion memorable.

John Morales

9. John Morales: John Morales has been a dedicated coach for over 15 years, with more than eight of those years spent at Equinox Luxury Club. As a natural bodybuilder, he has honed his expertise in functional movement patterns, kettlebell training, and boxing, offering a comprehensive approach to fitness. Throughout his career, John has worked with a diverse clientele, ranging from teenage athletes and high-level competitors to celebrities, CEOs, and founders.

He has also specialized in coaching both pre- and post-natal clients, demonstrating a wide-ranging proficiency in addressing different fitness needs. John's coaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that understanding the role of fitness is crucial for everyone, regardless of their lifestyle or career demands. He is committed to helping each client discover what fitness means to them personally, integrating it seamlessly into their daily lives. His approach is highly personalized, focusing on building strength, endurance, and agility through techniques that best suit each individual's goals and physical capabilities. 

Over the years, John's ability to adapt and tailor his training methods to the unique requirements of his clients has not only led to their enhanced physical health but also contributed to their overall well-being and success. His dedication and passion for fitness have made him a respected and influential figure in the health and wellness community.

Avi Yakubov

10. Avi Yakubov: At 29, Avi Yakubov has made an impressive mark in New York's entrepreneurial landscape, transitioning from a humble Brooklyn upbringing by Russian immigrant parents to a business tycoon. He began with a simple barbershop in Long Island, quickly gaining recognition for his meticulous attention to detail and customer service, making the shop a local favorite.

Not content to stop there, Yakubov expanded into the automotive industry, opening a body shop entitled, Team Auto Body NY that combined his passion for cars with his craftsmanship skills. His ventures continued to grow as he tapped into the car leasing market, responding to the high demand for affordable transportation solutions in New York. Through strategic planning and tireless effort, his car leasing business thrived, providing a range of vehicles and customizable leasing options.

Today, Yakubov embodies the American dream, demonstrating that perseverance and hard work can lead to extraordinary success. His journey from a Brooklyn barbershop to a diversified business empire serves as a powerful motivation for aspiring entrepreneurs.