In the ‘Leaders’ category of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2024, Yulia Navalnaya and Ajay Banga have been featured. Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, chose to enter politics to keep her husband’s vision alive. She believes that it was necessary to continue fighting for justice after his assassination. On the other hand, Ajay Banga became the President of the World Bank last year, becoming the first person of color to lead either of the world’s major financial institutions – the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. He serves as the 14th President for a five-year term.
Jigar Shah is another Indian-American on the list and holds a position in US Department of Energy Loan Programs Office overseeing public funds towards clean infrastructure and energy initiatives. Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni is also one of the few top politicians in this category. She rose to power in 2022 and became Italy’s first female leader, despite initial apprehensions about her far-right party. Despite this, she still enjoys significant support in her country.
Narges Mohammadi won the Nobel Peace Prize for her tireless advocacy for human rights in Iran in 2023. However, she is currently detained in Tehran’s Evin prison due to her advocacy work.
Other prominent individuals on this list include Indian-origin US official Jigar Shah and Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni.
In conclusion, Time Magazine has recognized some exceptional individuals who are making a significant impact on society today. Their achievements range from fighting for political justice to promoting clean energy initiatives and human rights causes.