While it’s probably safe to say that most people hope for an end to world hunger, war, racism, poverty and other pressing global crises, these 10 humanitarian influencers are engaged in providing actionable help and creating change. By taking action rather than watching from the sidelines, they save lives, help relieve suffering, drive awareness for important issues, and preserve human dignity.
10 humanitarian influencers educating others, advocating for change and highlighting their work on the front lines
Isha Sesay
Isha, who is of Sierra Leonean descent, is a former television journalist who advocates for equity, education and leadership for girls in Africa. She serves as the UN Goodwill Ambassador for UNFPA and wrote a book about the abduction of Chibok girls. Isha launched W.E. Can Lead, a humanitarian nonprofit to support African girls in receiving educational support to become future leaders, and hosts “The Accidental Activist” podcast.
Greta Thunberg
Perhaps the most well-known climate and environmental activist of all time, Greta, who has Asperger’s syndrome, is also an autism activist. Her 14.4 million Instagram followers see posts about upcoming marches, news regarding government infringements on environmental, animal and human rights, book releases, and fundraising efforts for people affected by natural disasters. Her commitment to change gives her the bravery to call out senior leaders around the globe.
Forest Whitaker
While most people know Forest as an actor, his humanitarian work plays a prominent role in his life. He serves as the UNESCO Special Envoy for Peace and Reconciliation and founded the Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative which aims to promote the values of peace, reconciliation and social development within communities impacted by conflict and violence. He also won the German Sustainability Award and the International Peace Honors, which he shares with his Instagram followers to inspire action.
Malala Yousafzai
As the world’s youngest Nobel Prize laureate, Malala is a human rights activist who primarily fights for the education of girls. She co-authored a book about the attempted assassination on her life and how it led to her advocacy. She’s made Time magazine’s list of most influential people multiple times and uses her Instagram account to continue her work to help girls around the world get an education.
Esther Havens Mann
Esther describes herself as a “humanitarian photographer, empathetic storytelling, speaker, activist, and relational bridge builder.” She has visited seven continents and uses her skills as a photographer to raise awareness about communities that need basic necessities, like nutritious food, clean water and education. Her 53.3K Instagram followers can find information about child sponsorship, links to humanitarian programs and updates on people she’s met along her journey.
Muniba Mazari
Artist, activist, and motivational speaker Muniba is the Goodwill Ambassador for UN Women Pakistan and advocates for women’s rights and leadership and diversity. With 1.01 million YouTube subscribers and 2 million followers on Instagram, her inspirational content serves to educate, motivate and mobilize her fans. Be sure to catch her interview where she says she wants to be remembered as an empath.
Jerome Foster II
Barely out of his teens, Jerome is already an environmental justice adviser for the White House. The co-founder of OneMillionOfUs has appeared in a commercial inspiring viewers to vote for politicians who will address climate change. At 15 he created The Climate Reporter, a youth-led blog committed to environmental truth. His 42.4K Instagram followers can learn more about his work, how to get involved and awards he’s won for his activism. He advocates for civil and human rights and their ties to the climate crisis.
Emma Watson
The “Harry Potter” star has served as a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador and was appointed to a G7 advisory body for women’s rights. She helped launch both HeForShe to support gender equality and Time’s Up U.K. to raise money for victims of sexual harassment. In addition to her work fighting for women’s rights, she uses her Instagram account to advocate for sustainable fashion, women in STEM and the need to address the climate crisis.
Melinda French Gates
Few billionaires use so much of their wealth to help others like Melinda. A global advocate for women and girls, she shares information about female trailblazers, issues that affect women, and how to get involved. Melinda posts interviews with other female change-makers and financially supports gender equality.
Dia Mirza Rekhi
Well known in India as a model, actress and producer, Dia is now dedicated to humanitarian works and environmental education. Her experience as a social worker comes in handy now that she’s an ambassador and advocate for a variety of groups, including UN Environment Programme, the International Fund for Animal Welfare, WildLife Trust of India, and Save The Children. She hosts “Down to Earth With Dee” and promotes and discusses sustainable materials and products on her Instagram account.
Influencers:
Looking to partner with industry-leading brands? Create your free profile today.
Marketers:
The world’s biggest brands trust IZEA’s influencer marketing software and managed solutions. Find out which solution is right for you.
