1202’s MAGAZINE’s 100 Forces of 2024

Written By 1202 MAGAZINE

This year was full of ups and downs, but one constant was the people who made it worthwhile. From musicians, designers, chefs, makeup artists, writers, publicists, influencers, and cultural movers and shakers, we chose 100 people who truly made a difference in their careers and in the lives of those around them. These forces are shifting the artistic and cultural landscapes—and for such uncertain times—they’re reassuring our hope for the future of art and cultural spaces around the world. Check out the alphabetical list of 1202 MAGAZINE’s 100 Forces of 2024 below!

MUSIC

At just 20 years old, producer, singer, composer, and songwriter 2hollis rose to stardom soon before going on tour with Ken Carson. The genre-bending Chicagoan is known for fusing techno, house, rap, and alternative in hits like “gold,” “jeans,” and “trauma.”

FOOD + DRINK

Abdul Elenani is the owner of the Palestinian restaurant Ayat NYC. With eight locations spanning New York City, Pennsylvania, and Staten Island, Elenani became a widely respected and resilient restauranteur after receiving death threats amid Israel’s genocide on occupied Palestine.

CULTURE

As the founder of A Gold Consulting, Ah-Niyah Gold is always on her grind. Her notable clients like Theophilio, Mowalola, Topicals, Hanifa, Black Fashion Fair, and Brandon Blackwood have helped her achieve iconic campaigns and events—making her not only one of the top publicists of 2024 but of our generation.

CULTURE

Aiyana Ishmael’s journalism career began at FAMU’s Journey Magazine. Years later, she is now Teen Vogue’s associate editor. In this role, she covers crucial topics in fashion, beauty, culture, and more. Her effervescent personality and powerful words make her every journalist’s favorite journalist.

CULTURE

What began as an art career with a design studio called From Us To You, Aleiya Olu expanded and recently founded Periodicals. The magazine and lifestyle shop in the heart of Detroit offers products from local brands, skincare, beauty products, writing tools, and an endless selection of new and archival magazines.

FASHION

At just 21 years old, Aliyah Bah took over the internet with her unconventional and alternative outfits. But it doesn’t stop at clothes and TikToks—Bah released viral hits “IT GIRL” and “Fashion Icon,” racking up hundreds of millions of streams.

ART

Since the 1950s, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has been one of the most prestigious dance companies in the world. This year, The Whitney Museum presented Edges of Ailey, an exhibition paying tribute to Alvin Ailey’s legacy and how he preserved the epochal program in ways no one ever knew.

ART

Amanda Ba is a Brooklyn-based painter born in Columbus, Ohio, who spent her early childhood in Hefei, China. Her vivid paintings center on diasporic memory and psychosexual fantasy. Her work actively challenges the predominant white Western gaze. She recently had a solo exhibition, Developing Desire, showcasing unapologetic works that interrogate and celebrate Asian women’s bodies.

MUSIC

No one makes music writing look as easy as Andre Gee does. The Washington, DC-born, Brooklyn-based Rolling Stone writer covers the hard truths of the music industry, as well as prophetic profiles, interviews, and reviews of emerging and established musicians like Ab-Soul, DeJ Loaf, Method Man, and many more.

10. And Such

CULTURE

Founded by Mary Anderson and Kat Cooper, And Such is a consulting agency specializing in all mediums. Through public relations, creative production, and casting, And Such has achieved fashion shows and campaigns with brands like Dieux Skin, K.ngsley, Hume Supernatural, and Gabe Gordon.

FASHION

Angel Edme is an emblematic influencer, digital creator, and fashionista. With features in The Cut, The Real Real, Amazon, and Teen Vogue, Edme documents her lifestyle, favorite looks, recommended products, and some of the city’s most happening events.

FASHION

Angelo Baque is the founder of Awake NY. The streetwear brand, which represents the diversity of the city’s landscape, has become a staple in New York City’s fashion scene. Over the summer, Awake NY hosted several pop-up events and block parties celebrating collaboration, community, and local artists.

13. Anok Yai

FASHION

Not only is she one of the best supermodels of our generation, but she is also one of the most beautiful and talented ever to do it. While she didn’t win the Model of the Year Award at this year’s Fashion Awards, she was internationally claimed as such, especially by the winner, Alex Consani.

FASHION

Anthony Brooks founded Anthony Brooks Consulting over three years ago. The global communications agency has acquired notable clients such as Jane Wade, Wales Bonner, 1017 ALYX 9SM, and many more. It specializes in client collaborations, VIP and influencer events, and brand development.

ART

Anthony Olubunmi Akinbola is one of the art industry's most-watched artists this year. With three galleries at the Guggenheim, SCAD Museum of Art, and Galerie Krinzinger, Akinbola is redefining the narratives of Blackness and diasporic cultures and dialogues through his multimedia artworks.

CULTURE

She has taste and charisma. As the social media editor at Marie Claire, Ashlyn Delaney gives us the inside scoop on new products, celebrity news, and culture-related topics. Here, she has helped the platform gain millions of monthly viewers and visitors.

CULTURE

Award-winning Palestinian journalist, activist, and filmmaker Bisan Owda creates daily film videos and posts documenting Israel’s genocide in Gaza. Every day, she is on the ground, giving viewers live updates on living conditions, deaths, starvation, and the fight to survive in her homeland, as well as the lives of millions of Palestinians who are at risk of being killed by Israel’s bombs, guns, machinery, and torture.

MUSIC

Bossman Dlow began rapping in 2019 while he was still in jail. Luckily, it paid off. Now, he has popular songs like “Talk My Shit,” “Get In With Me,” and “Mr. Pot Scraper.” With hundreds of millions of streams, Bossman Dlow grew to rapid fame, acquiring collaborations with Lil Baby, Glorilla, Moneybagg Yo, and more.

CULTURE

Brittany Packnett Cunningham is an American activist and the co-founder of Campaign Zero. She is a leader at the intersection of culture, justice, and policy. As an activist, educator, and writer, she builds platforms to activate everyday people to take transformative action for justice, as well as having a podcast called UNDISTRACTED.

20. Byline

CULTURE

Founded by Gutes Guterman and Megan O’Sullivan, Byline is a publication that highlights niche topics, emerging artists, and creative expression. Keeping physical and digital media alive, Byline takes no shortcuts when it comes to storytelling and voicing those who are demanded to be heard.

FASHION + ART

She recently made Forbes’ 30 Under 30. Caroline Zimbalist is an artist and designer who has mastered the art of unparalleled pieces through unconventional creation methods and techniques. She combines the use of bio-plastics and textiles to craft one-of-a-kind garments, sculptures, and accessories.

22. Ceechynaa

MUSIC

“I’m pegging that man in the back of the bus.” Need I say more than that first iconic line of her newest single, “Peggy,” which racked up over one million streams in less than three days? Ceechynaa came out swinging, and we can’t get enough of her dominant demeanor and supreme lyricism.

23. Chi Ossé

CULTURE

At only 26 years old, Chi Ossé has done more for New York City than most politicians. He serves as a Council Member in New York City’s 36th District of Bedford-Stuyvesant and northern Crown Heights. So far, he has helped eliminate the broker’s fee, helped create a pilot program to house and financially support new mothers, and is actively working to make Citi Bikes cheaper, create more affordable housing, and advocate for resources that truly put our taxes to use.

FASHION

Danya Issawi is a Palestinian fashion writer at New York Magazine’s The Cut. Here, she covers crucial topics and conversations in the fashion industry. Many of her stories incorporate the politics behind fashion, a prominent issue that often goes underreported.

VISUALS

It all began with a Marie Claire magazine cover at 17. Since then, photographer and visual storyteller Denise Stephanie Hewitt has photographed Simone Biles, Sha’Carri Richardson, Baby Tate, and many more for legacy publications, all before she turned 23. She also recently became a Gordon Parks Foundation Scholar.

CULTURE

As the founder of Dine with Dez, Desmond Sam is shifting the narrative around what it means to have conversations and make connections at the dinner table. Now taken to Paris and Miami, Dine with Dez allows strangers to come together to find commonalities over fantastic food and drinks at different food spots worldwide.

MUSIC

For years, Levar Rogers-McDonald, also known as Dick By Air, has been a household name in the DJ, art, and fashion communities. He stays booked and busy with DJ gigs throughout New York City as well as international shows and events.

28. Doechii

MUSIC

She needs no introduction. Doechii is the swamp princess who’s been stepping on necks all year and hasn’t let up yet. This year, the Florida native released her album Alligator Bites Never Heal, which she dominated at Camp Flog Gnaw and her NPR Tiny Desk Concert. She is already crowned the future of rap.

CULTURE

Drew Townsel is a storyteller, change-maker, and innovator from Chicago. Guided by her passion for impactful and culturally relevant campaigns, she has developed a passion for marketing and brand strategy. Along with her corporate endeavors, Townsel founded Intersect Magazine, a digital publication focused on curating and amplifying Gen Z culture.

30. Dylan Ali

MUSIC

Dylan Ali will always get the party right when it comes to the ones and twos. Spinning almost every night, DJ Dylan Ali knows how to bring the fun to any venue she DJs at. She mixes different genres between every song and beat, keeping people on their feet all night.

FOOD + DRINK

ded by Benny and Carolina, EATGOODNYC is a baking company in Saint Michel Cafe in Bushwick. Here, they create hyper-realistic cakes, pastries, and sweet treats for prominent brands like Telfar, Timberland, Carhartt Work in Progress, and many more. Their intricate goodies continue to land them cooler and cooler collaborations and partnerships.

32. Elyanna

MUSIC

Elyanna is a Palestinian-Chilean singer-songwriter who has pioneered the fusion of Arabic and Latin sounds. Her career took off when she was only 15 years old and was discovered by Grammy-winner Nasri Atweh. She recently went on a sold-out tour, stunning listeners with her ethereal voice.

33. Fambie

BEAUTY

Fambie is an unconventional New York City-based piercer who will pierce you literally anywhere and make it look and heal perfectly. Acclaimed for piercing Lil Uzi Vert and Been Slackin, she pokes anyone anywhere from dermal, spiked collars, lip, ear, bellybutton, and even foot piercings. Her work celebrates the intersection of fashion and piercing while paying homage to a bygone era of NYC’s creative underground.

FOOD + DRINK

Hailing from Ethiopia, Fariyal Abdullahi moved to New York City and became the executive chef of the popular Swedish-Ethiopian restaurant Hav & Mar in early 2022. Since opening, Abdullahi and the restaurant have gained worldwide attraction, landing her to curate the menu at the 2024 Met Gala.

35. Fousheé

MUSIC

This year, singer-songwriter and instrumentalist Fousheé released her third album, Pointy Heights. In contrast to her last rock album, softCORE, Pointy Heights explores a different side of her culture, identity, family, and relationships. Her recent tour for this project was a hit, selling out venues in most of the cities.

ART

Gabrielle Richardson is a multihyphenate who co-curated 25 Allen Street’s debut exhibit, New York…NOW. It brought together 18 different artists into one space to display both the similarities and individualities of New York artists and enthusiasts.

37. Gia Kuan

CULTURE

If you ever find yourself at the “it” event for the weekend, it was most likely produced by Gia Kuan Consulting. She represents some of the most buzzing artists, stores, designers, and products, such as Telfar, Criterion Collection, ESSX, Luar, Kiko Kostadinov, and many more.

FASHION

Giovanni Canela is a New York City-based model who specializes in both editorial and runway. This year alone, Canela has modeled for brands like Dreu, Jordan Gogos, Sebastien Ami, Who Decides War, Tom Bogo, and photographers Petros Kouiouris and Steven Hawkins.

ART

Gisela McDaniel is a diasporic, Indigenous Chamoru artist who explores the effects of trauma, displacement, and colonization through oil paintings, portraits, and oral histories. By interweaving audio interviews of portrait sitters and memorabilia, she carefully subverts the traditional power relations of artist and sitter. Her work disrupts and responds to the systemic silencing of subjects in fine art, politics, and popular culture.

ART

In 2022, Hannah Traore founded the Hannah Traore Gallery to showcase art created by Black and artists of color, immigrants, and queer artists. She’s displayed the works of Quil Lemons, Turiya Adkins, Rachel Martin, Anya Paintsil, Camila Falquez, and more.

ART

Henry Taylor is a longtime artist who continues to be the blueprint for painters in every generation through acrylic paintings, installations, and mixed-media sculptures. His recent work was shown at the Whitney Museum, Carnegie Museum, the Hammer Museum, and the Boston Institute of Contemporary Art.

42. HiTech

MUSIC

Detroit trio Hi-Tech rose to stardom through their freaky lyrics, Hennessey yielding, and wild live shows. Now performing at international festivals and notable events, King Milo, 47Chops, and MILF Melly are preserving the iconic Detroit-made genre, Ghettotech.

SPORTS

Imane Khelif is a professional boxer from Algeria who made history by winning her first gold medal at the 2024 Summer Olympics. She currently graces the cover of Vogue Arabia, symbolizing her influence both in and out of the ring.

VISUALS

Isaiah Johns is a Detroit-based photographer who captures moments of everything from fashion shows, music festivals, music videos, behind-the-scenes, sports games, and more. His photography has been published in Rolling Stone, Billboard, Spotify, Essence, and more.

FASHION

Jacques Agbobly, the name behind the independent brand, Agbobly, highlights the contributions made by Black, queer, and immigrant people in fashion, especially outside of the Western world. That being said, Agbobly veers away from gender-conforming garments through traditional materials, fabrics, and design techniques.

46. Jane Wade

FASHION

Based in New York City, Jane Wade is a contemporary designer who blends avant-garde, streetwear, athleisure, and corporate wear. Whether it’s a pleated skirt, oversized blazer, or a dress made out of shredded paper, Jane Wade puts endless time into each piece for true, one-of-a-kind authenticity.

47. Jay Perez

FASHION

Also known as Jay Badass, Jay Perez is a New York City native who has become a connoisseur in fashion, lifestyle, styling, and influencing. He works closely with AWGE, Telfar, and many other brands. He’s known for his paradigmatic gender non-conforming looks while remaining true to his Dominican culture.

MUSIC

Jean Dawson is a musician and visual artist whose art often explores notions of hyper-masculinity. He draws influence from his Black and Mexican background. Inspired by the likes of Nirvana, Mike Jones, Beach Fossils, The Smiths, Outkast, and many others, Dawson’s eclectic taste culminated in his ambitious debut album Pixel Bath, where he continues to push the limit and genre-bend.

49. Jess Xu

FASHION

We don’t use this word lightly, but Jess Xu is a real influencer. Her unparalleled style has led her to become one of the internet’s most popular content creators and stylists. She’s partnered with many brands, such as Adidas, Google, Moschino, Rolling Loud, and more.

ART

Jilijah Thomas is a Florida-born Panamanian designer and creator based in Brooklyn. He is the brains behind Fine Ass Fronts, a brand specializing in custom grillz with handcrafted gems, materials, and designs. Drawing inspiration from his heritage’s strong affinity for gold, Jilijah combines craftsmanship and cultural expression in his designs to create wearable art. Fine Ass Fronts recently collaborated with the Brooklyn Museum as part of the Solid Gold exhibition.

51. JMSN

MUSIC

You’ve most likely heard “Soft Spot,” one of the most viral songs on streaming platforms this year. JMSN, the Detroit native, has blown up in ways he’s never imagined. He’s been making music since the early 2010s, but for the first—and definitely not the last time—JMSN was in the spotlight all year for rising artists.

CULTURE

With four locations across New York, Joanne Wilson founded Gotham Cannabis. She is also a prominent early-stage angel investor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist with a diverse background in retail, wholesale, media, real estate, and technology. She has over 140 companies in her investment portfolio, such as Food52, Eater, and Parachute Home, and has invested in several restaurants throughout downtown New York.

53. Kai

FASHION

Kai is a multidisciplinary artist based in New York City, focusing on fashion design, styling, and content creation. He began creating fashion content in 2020 and quickly gained popularity for his unique style. Kai uses the power of content creation, fashion, and storytelling to express himself and push the boundaries of creativity. He’s quite literally always dressed to impress.

MUSIC

We don’t even need to say why Kendrick Lamar made this list. All we have to say is: “Not Like Us” and GNX. That is all.

55. Kia Marie

FASHION

Kia Marie, also known as The Notorious K.I.A., is a Brooklyn-based stylist who pioneers sustainability in fashion and sneaker culture. She inspires people to embrace and express their unique personal style through the lens of conscious consumption.

FASHION

Kiera Liberati is a celebrity fashion stylist and a woman who wears many hats. She is also the founder of KL Studios and Liberati Clothing and the owner of The Swete One in Antigua. She’s styled AJ AG, King Promise, Paul Russell, and many more editorial gigs.

57. Laila!

MUSIC

“That’s just not my problem” was a universal line this year. Laila’s viral TikTok anthem, as well as her debut song, “Not My Problem,” reached over 50 million streams. Within the same year, she released her debut album, Gap Year! Since then, she’s collaborated with Cash Cobain and performed at Camp Flog Gnaw.

MUSIC

What’s better than one DJ in the booth? Three. Las Flaquitas are the triple threat of DJs. All New York-born and New York-based Las Flaquitas’ wide range of cultures give them their flair. They’re also the only DJ trio we know—which is pretty cool. Their open format style has given them the opportunities to spin at all different types of fun events and shows.

MUSIC

Lexa Gates is finally getting her flowers after making music for almost five years. This year, she released her album, Elite Vessel. To premiere the project, Gates sat in a glass box at Union Square for hours, displaying her streaming the album. Since then, she’s continued to rise with millions of streams.

CULTURE

Lexi McMenamin is the news and politics editor at Teen Vogue. Here, they report on imperative topics of identity, activist movements, and pop culture. While some may find McMenamin’s stories controversial, McMenamin’s transparent and real stories include those of LGBTQ+, Palestine, bipartisanship, climate change, and more.

BEAUTY

As the founder of the Forever Curls Academy, Leysa Carrillo is known for empowering curly and coiled hair. She specializes in hair transformations and comes up with techniques to make textured hair as healthy as possible regardless of what style it’s in. Education is key for Carrillo; she holds panels and classes to help anyone learn more about healthy and stylish hair hacks. She’s also a global ambassador for Redken.

FASHION

Lindsey Media is Lindsey Solomon’s brainchild. The independent consulting and public relations agency elevate brands through events, fashion shows, editorials, campaigns, and more. Some of Lindsey Media’s clients include Allina Liu, Collina Strada, Wiederhoeft, MELKE, and many more.

FOOD + DRINK

Chef, entrepreneur, and content creator Manolo López is known for continuously embracing his home, Puerto Rico. Between that island and another (New York City), López opened Café Colmado in Manhattan’s Lower East Side. Here, the café and lounge offers signature Puerto Rican drinks and pastries, as well as hosts events.

64. Maya Wang

FASHION

Maya Wang sees New York City like a hearty bowl. Fried rice is the base, and everything else is mixed in there—different, yet interconnected. That’s the basis of her streetwear brand, Fried Rice. The beloved gender-neutral brand is not only a favorite in NYC, but all over the world. Wang’s designs feature timeless baggy pants, soft t-shirts, funky hats, and more.

CULTURE

Mixed Feelings is a newsletter that highlights hyperspecific topics that are extremely relatable yet often go unspoken or are miscommunicated. They acknowledge mental health, chronic online culture, and fandoms through interviews with artists of all mediums.

66. Mk.gee

MUSIC

Mk.gee has been releasing music since 2018. However, the singer-songwriter and producer’s career took off this year. His alternative sound has had people in shackles this year, with hits like “ROCKMAN,” “Alesis,” and “Are You Looking Up” off his new album Two Star & The Dream Police.

CULTURE

Nadia Tahoun is a curator and the founder of the Flower Shop Collective. The art studio and educational space are home to nurturing emerging artists for equitable futures. Her goal is to spark dialogue and shift cultural landscapes through innovative approaches.

CULTURE

Harlemite Najha Zigbi-Johnson is a writer and cultural strategist who explores and interrogates contemporary art through the lens of Afro-surrealism. Her work has been published in notable outlets such as Columbia University Press and Harvard Divinity School. Most importantly, Zigbi-Johnson fosters community with her book Mapping Malcolm, which recalls Malcolm X’s legacy of Black radicalism.

69. NASAAN

MUSIC

NASAAN is a multifaceted rapper and online personality from Detroit. As the son of the emblematic DeShaun “Big Proof” Holton, it’s an understatement that NASAAN is living in his father’s legacy and wearing many hats. Recently, NASAAN went viral for his one-of-a-kind From The Block freestyle and has had all eyes on him since he was featured on Big Sean’s song “Certified.”

70. Nemahsis

MUSIC

Nemahsis is a Canadian-Palestinian singer-songwriter who centers much of her music on identity, Hijabi women, Islam, and social issues. Despite releasing music for less than five years, she’s accumulated millions of streams with a dedicated fanbase that aligns with her values and lyricism.

71. Nick Cheo

MUSIC

For Nick Cheo, it all started with DIY at-home videos of him DJing from his home. After continuous viral videos of his clever DJ sets, Cheo became a worldwide sensation. He packed his bags, left his small town for New York City, and remained booked and busy all year for all different types of parties and events.

CULTURE

Nimay Ndolo is a software developer turned content creator. With a background in theater and film and an infectious personality, she captivates her audience by exploring a wide range of cultural and internet topics. Ndolo’s blend of knowledge and humor makes her a standout voice in the digital world.

FASHION + ART

Nina Chanel Abney is an Illinois-born contemporary artist who explores the realms of race, gender, pop culture, homophobia, and politics in her signature style of art. Not only has she had her own collaboration with Jordan Brand, but she also had her solo exhibition, LIE DOGGO, at Jack Shainman Gallery’s The School in Kinderhook, New York.

CULTURE

Noor Tagouri is an award-winning journalist, storyteller, and producer focusing on human rights and social justice currently at At Your Service. She is renowned for breaking barriers through her impactful documentaries and thought-provoking narratives that center on identity and representation in media. Tagouri is a producer for the documentary series The Trouble They've Seen: The Forest Haven Story and a podcast series called Sold in America: Inside Our Nation's Sex Trade. She was also the first Muslim woman in Playboy in 2016.

CULTURE

NuevaYorkinos is a digital archive and multimedia project founded by Djali Brown-Cepeda and Ricardo Castañeda. It’s dedicated to preserving the culture and history of New York's Latino and Caribbean communities through family stories and visual media. By curating photography and stories from across the boroughs, NuevaYorkinos honors the beauty and resilience of New York’s Latine communities.

76. NXTHVN

ART

Founded by Titus Kaphar and Jason Price, NXTHVN is a New Haven-based gallery and program made to empower artists through community and collaboration. They offer fellowships, programs, exhibitions, rotating galleries, mentorships, and events.

FASHION

Designer and founder of her self-titled clothing company, Olivia Sade Co., is making bold statements about culture and community. Her pieces break traditional rules, like her subversive take on the classic “I Love NY” shirt, replacing “NY” with “I Love OliviaSade.” Her designs are unapologetic and deeply personal, reflecting her unique vision and the nostalgia of the indie sleaze era, which debuted in her New York Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2025 runway show.

78. Omar SB

MUSIC

Some of the best DJ sets in New York City this year were arguably played by Omar SB. The open-format DJ knows how to read a room for any party or event he spins at. Not to mention, he is one of the most stylish DJs we know—with unapologetically addictive DJ sets.

ART

Nestled in Tribeca is Onyedika Chuke’s brainchild, Storage Gallery. Here, he features multi-generational mixed media artists and painters. Chuke is also a Nigerian-American art dealer, artist, and curator who was an assistant professor at Columbia University School of the Arts.

CULTURE

Peyton Dix is a culture writer, social strategist, and brand strategist. Her career spans working at Paper Magazine, InStyle, and The Outline, and she is the global social director of MAC Cosmetics. Dix is currently the co-host of the hilarious podcast Lemme Say This alongside her longtime best friend, Hunter Harris, where they discuss all things pop culture.

ART

Based in Red Hook, Brooklyn, Pioneer Works is an artist and scientist-led non-profit that empowers visual and performing artists, educators, organizers, and technologists. Founded by Dustin Yellin, Pioneer Works offer resources such as studios, performances, and exhibitions, and recently released their magazine, Broadcast.

82. Polyester

CULTURE

Founded by London-based writer Ione Gamble, Polyester Zine is a niche-focused digital and print publication and podcast that focuses on intersectional feminism. Polyester aims to bridge the gap between online feminism versus what it means in real life.

MUSIC

Rachel Chinouriri has been the UK popstar girl this year—and will be from now on. With hundreds of millions of streams, the singer-songwriter blew up after making music for almost five years. Chinouriri’s music continues to go viral on social platforms and got even more traction when she featured Florence Hugh in her hit video, “Never Need Me.”

BEAUTY

Rowi Singh is an Australian-born Indian woman who uses glam and special FX makeup as a form of self-expression. She is also the founder of Embellish by Rowi, makeup jewels to elevate any look from a soft glam to a natural beat. Embellish products are sold in Sephora Australia and Urban Outfitters US.

CULTURE

Saam Niami is a New York City-based writer who’s contributed crucial stories to The New York Times, 032c, Office Magazine, GQ Middle East, Elephant Magazine, and more. This year, he co-curated an 18-artist exhibition in the Lower East Side’s 25 Allen St. called New York…NOW!

MUSIC

He’s been a household name in Detroit for years. Now, Sam Austins has become a household name worldwide. His single, “Seasons,” recently went viral on all social platforms, accumulating over 15 million streams. His newest track, “Say what you mean,” is on its way to doing the same.

SPORTS

Hailed as one of the best sprinters of the modern era, Sha’Carri Richardson is an American track and field star. She won her first gold medal at the 2024 Summer Olympics. Richardson is also known for her bold and expressive style on the track, paying homage to icons like Flo Jo.

88. Sky Jetta

MUSIC

Not only is she known as one of the best DJs out of Detroit, but as one of the best in the nation. Detroit-born and Chicago-based Sky Jetta is living every DJ’s dream. She’s partnered with Shinola, the Detroit Pistons, and played sets around the world, including On The Radar, Elevator Music, several music festivals, and went on tour with Zack Fox.

MUSIC

The Snow Strippers are an electronic music duo based in Detroit, Michigan. They rose to fame with their eponymous sound and demeanors on albums April Mixtape 2, April Mixtape 3, and The Snow Strippers. They shut down Brooklyn with a Boiler Room set and genre-bend on collaborations with artists like Lil Uzi Vert.

VISUALS

Sophia Wilson is a New York City-based photographer and visual artist. Her work spans different mediums with emerging and major brands such as Google, Vogue, Paper Magazine, Nike, FKA Twigs for Matchaful, Lay Banz for Under Armour, Jolie Skin Co., and more.

FASHION

As the founder and designer of Head of State, Taofeek Abijako is a Nigerian Brooklyn-based fashion designer. He launched Head of State as a teenager in high school, and it quickly gained traction in the fashion world. Abijako’s most recent exhibition, Solid Gold, is in the Brooklyn Museum’s retail space.

92. TAOTTAO

FASHION

Designer Yitao Li tackles different themes throughout her designs. Although she’s new to the fashion scene, she came in swinging, and several celebrities and artists wear her garments. TAOTTAO is known for its emblematic signature style of lace textile with intricate line work and plaid patterns in drapey dresses, tights, platform shoes, and more.

93. Telfar Clemens

FASHION

If you don’t own a Telfar bag by now, the only reason is probably because they’re always sold out. Known as the Bushwick Birkin, Telfar bags have taken over the world. Founder Telfar Clemens always intended to create affordable yet high-quality bags accessible to everyone. Telfar bags have now evolved to various sizes, materials, colors, and collaborations—along with apparel and other accessories—online and now at its new SoHo flagship store.

94. TiaCorine

MUSIC

Hailing from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, rapper TiaCorine always comes through with her signature flow and clever lines. This year, she released her EP, Almost There, “Yung Joc” with Luh Tyler, “Different Color Stones,” and was featured on “HOT ONE” with Denzel Curry and A$AP Ferg. TiaCorine has performed at multiple Rolling Loud festivals, Dreamville, and many more.

FASHION

Tommy Bogo is the visionary founder of TOMBOGO, a cutting-edge fashion brand and design studio based in Los Angeles. At Paris Spring/Summer Fashion Week 2024, he showcased a collection that “binds futuristic edge with utility,” blending functional, sustainable fashion with avant-garde and utilitarian designs. TOMBOGO continues to redefine modern streetwear, pushing boundaries and inspiring a new generation of artists.

ART

Turiya Adkins is a mixed-media artist who incorporates paintings, sculptures, objects, and installations throughout her work. This year, she displayed her solo exhibition, More Than a Notion, at the Hannah Traore Gallery. The exhibition explored Black movement in the form of resistance and athleticism.

97. Veeze

MUSIC

He calls himself the 7 Mile Popstar—and he’s exceeded that title—because now, Veeze is a worldwide sensation in the rap realm known for his iconic lines. Hailing from Detroit, Veeze has gone on international tours and collaborated with artists like Lil Yachty, Rylo Rodriguez, and many others.

FASHION

Founded by Ev Bravado and Téla D’Amore, the luxury brand Who Decides War has become a household name for fashion lovers since they started the brand in 2018. Over the past six years, Bravado and D’Amore have brought major success through intricate, handmade pieces and signature pants that everyone wants to get their hands on. They remain sold out as celebrities and notable figures regularly sport the garments.

FASHION

Yasmeen Mjalli is the founder and designer of the Nöl Collective. Based in Palestine’s West Bank, Mjalli’s resilience during Israel’s occupation has only made her dedication to clothing women, stronger. She hand-dyes, embroiders, and weaves garments through Indigenous practices, using local plants, roots, and insects.

100. Zillion

MUSIC

Zillion is your go-to DJ for all of the most hype events. The Atlanta-born, New York City-based DJ stays booked and busy for weekend parties, as well as large events and festivals like Rolling Loud, Camp Flog Gnaw, and many more.

1202 MAGAZINE
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