The most influential people in 2013 come from a variety of backgrounds.
As 2013 has come to an end, it is time to take a look back at what has defined these past 12 months. How would you define influence? Does it have something to do with power, wealth, appeal, or the ability to make yourself heard by others? Influence is all of this, but above anything else, it refers to the ability to generate a reaction in others.
Today, we would like to present you with a list we have compiled of the most influential people in 2013, based on the 100 most influential people in 2013 list released earlier this year by Time magazine. The list includes titans, pioneers, leaders, artists, and icons.
Curious to see who has made our top? Let’s take a look at the countdown of the most influential people in 2013.
No. 6: Aamir Khan
Activist and film star, 48
On of the most influential people in 2013, Aamir Khan rose to fame with the 2000 Lagaan, a movie he both produced and starred in. The award winning film star took his charm and started his own TV show, Satyamev Jayate, in which he addressed the hard questions about India no one wanted to hear or answer. Everything from caste discrimination to sexual abuse has been a topic on his show.
His willingness to stand upg and underline the issues of Indian society as they are, without embellishments or sentimentalism, is what makes him an inspiration with all.
No. 5: Jay Z
Musician and entrepreneur, 42
Included by TIME on their titans list, Jay Z definitely stands out. Raised in public housing, the New York native overcame countless obstacles to become the influence he is today.
Though nobody would initially sign him on for a record contract, Jay Z didn’t let this incident bring him down. Instead, he took his passion and determination and used them to build his own music empire. Since then, he has went on to open clothing lines, sports bar, and ever represent athletes. If there’s one man that can prove the American Dream, Jay Z is him.
No. 3: David Einhorn
Hedge Fund Manager, 44
Although it has been a particular active year for hedge funders, none has caught the headlines as much as Mr. Einhorn, president of Greenlight Capital. He made waves when he proposed Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL). Give back some of its billions to investors, such as him.This moment marked a milestone in shareholder activism. Since then, countless investors have pushed firms with huge balance sheet to return some of the money, as well as change the very way they do business.
No. 2: Aung San Suu Kyi
Dissident, 67
After a decades-long house arrest, Aung San Suu Kyi, one of the most influential people in 2013 is finally a free woman. Despite the repercussions and strong opponents, Suu Kyi never gave up her dream of seeing a free and democratic Burma. As part of the Burmese Parliament, Suu Kyi is an active political leader, striving to succeed in a fragile environment. The most inspiring thing about her story is the fact that she never gave up her hope, despite the myriad of obstacles.
No. 1: Pope Francis
Bishop of Rome, 76
While one would expect the Head of Catholicism to be an influential person, Pope Francis more than deserves the number one spot on our countdown. The simple and sincere demeanor of the new Pope has enchanted millions of people across the world. Humble and uncomplicated, Pope Francis has shown us that influence has nothing to do with opulence, tyranny, or ego, and he tops our list of the most influential people in 2013.
If you enjoyed this curation, have a look at our “Top-Five Highest Paid Celebrity Couples.“
