Top 10 Business Leaders to Watch Out in 2025

As we step into 2025, the world of business and innovation continues to be shaped by visionary leaders who redefine excellence in their respective fields. From transforming education and empowering communities to leading industries with strategic foresight, these trailblazers are setting new benchmarks for success.

Among them, Dame Neslyn Watson-Druée stands as a beacon of leadership, inspiring others with her extraordinary contributions to personal and professional development. Rajiv Sagar, a dynamic leader, exemplifies resilience and innovation in the evolving technology landscape, while Mirza Sajid Khan leads with a mission to revolutionize corporate culture and foster inclusive growth.

Marc Clapasson brings a unique blend of creativity and precision to the luxury sector, redefining elegance and craftsmanship. Similarly, Michelle Lauren shines in the financial realm, empowering individuals and businesses to achieve their goals with her groundbreaking strategies.

The educational sphere witnesses transformation through Nada Adwan, whose MyTeacher App bridges the gap between traditional learning and modern technology. Dr. Desziree Richardson inspires global unity through her innovative awards platforms and creative endeavors, while Ritu Chopra blends eastern wisdom with modern leadership principles to empower emerging leaders.

Parth Thaker, with his meteoric rise in the security industry, exemplifies perseverance and strategic brilliance, and Nahid Hayoun continues to influence the UAE’s business ecosystem with her vision for corporate growth and philanthropy.

These remarkable individuals are more than leaders—they are changemakers whose efforts are shaping a brighter, more innovative future. Join us as we explore their inspiring journeys and the impact they are creating in 2025 and beyond.

Ritu Chopra’s exceptional career spans multiple sectors, including technology, media, literature, and executive coaching. With over two decades of experience in IT operations with Fortune 500 companies, Ritu has successfully transitioned her skills into empowering emerging leaders to achieve “Personal Mastery.” As the President of Chopra Management Services, she combines her strong foundation in technology with her expertise as a certified leadership coach, motivational speaker, and award-winning film producer.

Ritu’s leadership is a blend of practical experience and visionary insight, making her a sought-after coach for those seeking to align their personal growth with professional success. Her coaching philosophy centers on helping clients define their purpose and align it with their career goals. As an author, Ritu has written several influential books, such as Art of Life and Mastering Life, which offer valuable guidance on personal mastery. Her recent works, Women Leadership in the 21st Century and the upcoming Magic in Mindfulness, highlight her passion for advancing women’s leadership and promoting mindfulness in today’s fast-paced world.

Beyond her writing, Ritu hosts Despite the Challenges®, a TV show dedicated to sharing inspiring stories of resilience. She is also the host of the Women of Power podcast, where she celebrates the achievements of powerful women leaders. Through her media initiatives, Ritu amplifies voices that inspire others to overcome challenges and redefine success on their terms.

Throughout her career, Ritu has received numerous accolades, including the Her Story Award from the Women Federation of World Peace, the New Jersey Change Maker Award, and multiple film awards for her documentary The Secret Crimes and the Epidemic of Generations. This documentary brings attention to social issues that impact generations, further reinforcing Ritu’s commitment to raising awareness and sparking meaningful change.

Her work as an executive coach, keynote speaker, and media producer embodies her philosophy of “Personal Mastery,” which merges eastern wisdom with modern leadership principles. Ritu Chopra’s journey serves as an inspiring reminder that leadership is about more than just achieving success; it’s about empowering others to find clarity, purpose, and fulfillment in both life and career.

Mirza Sajid Khan is a distinguished aviation leader whose unparalleled work ethic, cultural adaptability, and unwavering determination have established him as a formidable force in the global aviation industry. With more than two decades of experience spanning continents, Mirza has consistently delivered exceptional results, transforming underperforming stations into revenue powerhouses and leading innovative projects that set new industry benchmarks.

His expertise encompasses both cargo and passenger operations, granting him a rare, holistic perspective that is pivotal in optimizing airline operations, enhancing customer satisfaction, and ensuring seamless service excellence. Mirza’s dual experience has played a key role in driving growth across multiple sectors, ensuring that both passenger and cargo operations achieve remarkable revenue milestones. His ability to thrive in cross-cultural environments is further evidenced by his success in fostering strategic alliances across Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East.

Mirza’s leadership and resilience have been especially evident during his management of operations in war zones, demonstrating his capacity to navigate the most challenging circumstances with remarkable composure. This has solidified his reputation as a leader who excels under pressure.

As an innovator and result-driven strategist, Mirza has shown a consistent ability to overcome challenges and surpass expectations. His experience in sales, service, and operations on the passenger side complements his cargo achievements, providing him with a unique ability to approach aviation from a multifaceted perspective. This allows him to craft strategies that balance practicality with vision, driving both financial turnarounds and technological advancements.

Mirza is also known for his advocacy for sustainability and inclusivity within the industry. His expertise extends to conflict resolution, as seen in his successful negotiation of industrial actions and bilateral air services agreements. These accomplishments reflect his skill in mediating complex situations and fostering international cooperation to drive organizational success.

In 2025, Mirza Sajid Khan is undoubtedly a leader to watch. With his rare combination of expertise, resilience, and cultural fluency, he continues to pave the way for innovative leadership in the aviation sector.

Nahid Hayoun, a visionary business leader and corporate growth consultant, is dedicated to transforming Arab nations into proactive manufacturers and sustainable economic powerhouses. With over 20 years of leadership experience across diverse industries, she is celebrated for driving transformative change and fostering innovation within the UAE and beyond.

Born in Tetouan, Morocco, Nahid’s entrepreneurial spirit is deeply rooted in her family legacy. Her father, a distinguished businessman and banker, was revered for his brilliance in blindfold chess and mathematical acumen. Her mother, a dynamic businesswoman and leader, exemplified strategic vision and resilience. These influences inspired Nahid to pursue excellence in her career.

Nahid’s primary mission is to elevate Arab nations, including the UAE, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, from being consumers to becoming proactive manufacturers. She champions green business practices and sustainable strategies, aiming to position these regions as top global suppliers. By focusing on fostering investment and innovation, Nahid envisions a thriving future where these nations shift from import reliance to export-driven economies.

Throughout her career, Nahid has consistently demonstrated strategic foresight and adaptability, leading corporate initiatives that deliver substantial growth and global collaboration. Her efforts are a testament to her commitment to building innovative, resilient economies.

In addition to her corporate achievements, Nahid is deeply committed to philanthropy, supporting initiatives that empower communities and promote sustainable development. Her dedication to creating a positive societal impact underscores her belief in leveraging success for the greater good.

Nahid’s journey is an inspiring narrative of resilience, vision, and purpose-driven leadership, serving as a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders. Her work exemplifies how determination and innovation can leave a lasting mark on both the corporate world and society.

Dr. Desziree Richardson is a beacon of inspiration, renowned for her transformative vision, captivating voice, and dedication to fostering global unity. As the creator of the esteemed Women of Heart Awards and Gentlemen of Heart Awards, she has established a platform that celebrates compassion, leadership, and excellence. These annual events, held at London’s iconic Leonardo Hotel, bring together individuals from all corners of the world, creating a vibrant space for recognition and connection.

A multifaceted leader, Dr. Desziree channels her creativity into building immersive experiences that resonate with a global audience. Whether organizing banquets, conferences, or award ceremonies, her unique approach ensures each event is memorable and impactful. Her influence extends beyond the stage, as she continues to inspire as a social influencer, keynote speaker, and champion of empathy and kindness.

Dr. Desziree’s talents extend to the realm of fashion as the founder and CEO of Happy Mood Swagger, a clothing line that embodies positivity and self-expression. This entrepreneurial endeavor reflects her belief in the power of creativity to uplift and inspire.

Her One Minute of Love recordings further highlight her commitment to spreading comfort and hope. These heartfelt offerings have captivated audiences worldwide, resonating with their universal message of love and unity.

Dr. Desziree's dynamic leadership combines elements of compassion, innovation, and elegance, making her a force for change on the global stage. Her ability to unite people through shared experiences and inspire with her words sets her apart as a true visionary.

As she continues to create platforms for connection and celebration, Dr. Desziree Richardson’s legacy grows as a testament to the power of love, creativity, and shared humanity.

Dame Neslyn Watson-Druée, DBE, is an Executive Coach, Business Psychologist, and Author renowned for her transformative approach to leadership development. With a career dedicated to empowering individuals to unlock their full potential, she stands as a beacon of inspiration in the field of coaching and leadership.

Specializing in Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, and Thinking Environment coaching, Dame Neslyn enables her clients to tap into their inner potential, fostering an environment where teams thrive with creativity, collaboration, and emotional intelligence. Her unique ability to guide leaders in aligning their hearts with their aspirations allows clients to craft meaningful, strategic visions and bring their leadership to life.

Through her role as CEO of Beacon Organisational Development, Dame Neslyn provides coaching tailored to senior leaders, offering reflective practice spaces that help them think strategically, define success, and lead with clarity. Her coaching philosophy centers on empowering leaders to create high-performing cultures driven by emotional intelligence and well-being.

Dame Neslyn’s credentials reflect her deep expertise:

• Genos International Emotional Intelligence Practitioner

• Rosche Martin Emotional Intelligence Certified Practitioner and Trainer

• Thinking Environment Consultant and Coach

• Fellow of The Association for Coaching

Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including the 2024 Top 15 Coaches in London and 2024 Business Elite Award for Best Leadership and Executive Coaching Provider. Additionally, she was named one of the 100 Best Global Coaching Leaders by the World HRD Congress in 2017.

For Dame Neslyn, leadership is about inspiring and enabling others to reach their aspirations. Her mission is to cultivate leaders who are strategic, creative, and emotionally intelligent—leaders who not only achieve success but also leave a lasting legacy.

Learn more about Dame Neslyn’s work at:
Beacon Organisational Development
Neslyn Watson-Druée
Beacon Potential

Nada Adwan is a trailblazing entrepreneur redefining the tutoring experience through her innovative platform, MyTeacher App. With a profound understanding of education, shaped by her own journey as a parent and her advanced certifications in the Science of Learning from Columbia University and the Leadership of Learning from Harvard University, Nada bridges the gap between traditional education and modern technological solutions.

Her inspiration for MyTeacher App arose from the challenges she witnessed in the educational community, where students often struggled to find accessible and effective support, and teachers lacked rewarding opportunities to leverage their skills. Fueled by a vision to transform private tutoring into a mutually enriching experience, Nada developed a platform that serves as a global bridge between school teachers and students.

Distinctive for its worldwide accessibility, MyTeacher App empowers students to overcome academic hurdles by connecting them with qualified educators, irrespective of location. This transformative tool not only addresses gaps in education but also creates a flexible, fulfilling lifestyle for teachers, enabling them to engage with students in a meaningful way.

Under Nada’s leadership, MyTeacher App is rapidly gaining recognition as a pioneering educational hub with the potential to reshape the future of learning. The platform’s commitment to personalized, impactful education aligns with Nada’s broader mission of enhancing opportunities for students while celebrating the pivotal role of teachers in society.

As Nada looks to the future, her ambitions for MyTeacher App extend far beyond its current success. She envisions it as a global leader in tutoring, fostering collaboration, innovation, and accessibility for learners worldwide. Her dedication to education, innovation, and empowerment makes Nada Adwan a beacon of hope and progress in the educational sector, inspiring students and educators alike to embrace a brighter, interconnected future.

With over 20 years of experience in leadership roles at renowned organizations such as Microsoft, Accenture, Capgemini, and Avanade, Rajiv Sagar is a trailblazer in Cloud, Generative AI, and Cybersecurity. His career is marked by strategic foresight, global collaboration, and a commitment to excellence.

As the Global Executive Managing Director at Avanade, Rajiv led a $500 million global cybersecurity business, leveraging the Microsoft and Accenture ecosystem to redefine help customer protect trust. Under his leadership, business revenues doubled in just 18 months. His global team, of over 1,000-strong, has become one of the largest Microsoft security-certified practice globally. Rajiv’s achievements have earned him accolades like  Avanade Named A Leader in the IDC MarketScape Worldwide Cybersecurity Consulting Services 2024 and prestigious industry awards like Microsoft Security Excellence for diversity and One Identity & Quest Partner of the Year.

Rajiv has successfully orchestrated the transformation of Avanade’s Security Practice into a fully operational global business unit across 25 countries. His ambitious strategies have expanded market presence and positioned the organization scale the business to achieve its growth target. He also played a pivotal role in designing comprehensive 5-year growth strategies while mentoring diverse, high-performing teams across regions.

Previously, Rajiv served as Security and Cloud Managing Director for Asia Pacific, Japan, and Latin America, where he spearheaded growth initiatives that increased revenue by 200% in cybersecurity and 50% in application and infrastructure solutions. His ability to build strategic partnerships, foster client trust, and cultivate regional capabilities has solidified his reputation as an innovative leader.

Beyond driving revenue and scaling teams, Rajiv is a passionate advocate for ethical innovation, including the supporting the integration of Generative AI in managed security services. His visionary leadership continues to create lasting impacts in technology, cybersecurity, and business transformation.

Rajiv Sagar’s transformative leadership and dedication to technological excellence have cemented his place as a trailblazer in cybersecurity and cloud solutions. His continued drive for innovation and growth will undoubtedly shape the industry for years to come. To learn more about his journey or discuss potential collaborations, connect with Rajiv Sagar today!

Michelle Lauren stands as a beacon of authenticity and innovation in the entrepreneurial world. As the founder of Essex Beauty Girl, she has transformed a modest £300 investment into a thriving brand that embodies resilience, creativity, and empowerment. With her unique approach to leadership and business, Michelle has redefined success and inspired countless others to break boundaries.

Under Michelle’s leadership, Essex Girl quickly gained traction, achieving profitability in its first year and surpassing £100,000 in revenue by the third. This remarkable growth earned recognition from major publications like The Daily Mirror and The Telegraph, along with accolades from HM Government for driving global exports. Her journey from a small-scale startup to an award-winning brand reflects her tenacity and business acumen.

Michelle’s dedication to innovation extends beyond her business milestones. In response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, she launched Michelle Lauren Hair Innovation, introducing the Hair Envy product line. This strategic pivot showcased her ability to adapt while staying true to her core values. Today, she is collaborating with a British university to develop patented ingredients targeting hair aging—further evidence of her commitment to shaping the future of the beauty industry.

Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2019, Michelle was the runner-up for the Beauty Entrepreneur of the Year at the English Women’s Awards, recognized for empowering women and inspiring future entrepreneurs. In 2022, Essex Girl earned the Corporate Livewire Prestige Award for Beauty Brand of the Year, underscoring Michelle’s dedication to excellence and innovation.

Beyond business, Michelle’s leadership style is defined by authenticity, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of growth. She thrives in uncertainty, turning challenges into opportunities and fostering a culture of empowerment. With her vision and drive, Michelle is not just reshaping the beauty industry but also redefining what it means to be a leader and an entrepreneur in today’s world.

Marc Clapasson’s professional journey is a testament to his vision and strategic acumen in the realms of investment management and private market growth. With over a decade of experience, Marc has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to redefine the investment landscape.

Currently at the helm of Layer Finance, Marc leads an advanced deal-sourcing platform that is transforming how professional investors access opportunities in real estate and private assets. Powered by AI-driven automation, Layer Finance streamlines data extraction, delivers actionable insights, and intelligently matches opportunities to investor profiles. By enhancing efficiency by over 80%, the platform empowers investors to make faster, more informed decisions—a true game-changer in the industry.

Marc’s leadership extends beyond Layer Finance. At MTC Content Holding, his expertise in investment and asset management has been instrumental in driving strategic growth across digital platforms and real estate. His innovative use of AI to optimize portfolio performance underscores his dedication to enhancing operational efficiency and delivering exceptional results.

Before these roles, Marc served as CEO at Lion Street Group, where he spearheaded initiatives for sustainable private market growth. He successfully managed key investments, cultivated strategic partnerships, and maximized returns, fostering a culture of trust, integrity, and high performance. His ability to empower project owners and align stakeholder goals has consistently resulted in revenue growth and long-term success.

Marc’s career is defined by a forward-thinking approach, blending technology with deep industry expertise to create impactful solutions for investors and asset managers alike. His dedication to innovation and strategic excellence continues to shape the future of investment management.

To learn more about Marc Clapasson’s innovative work, visit Layer Finance or connect with him on LinkedIn.

Parth Thaker’s remarkable journey from a Security Officer to the CEO and COO of Priority 1 Security is a shining example of perseverance, vision, and leadership. His career trajectory reflects a steadfast commitment to growth and excellence, positioning him as a respected leader in the security industry.

Starting as a Security Officer, Parth quickly ascended through roles as supervisor, manager, and director, thanks to his strong work ethic and operational expertise. Beyond ensuring client safety, he focused on building lasting relationships, optimizing business processes, and driving success. These attributes laid the foundation for his rapid rise within the company.

As COO and later CEO, Parth has been a transformative force at Priority 1 Security. His strategic leadership has driven significant business growth, with a focus on client retention, employee satisfaction, and operational efficiency. Under his guidance, the company has set industry benchmarks in training, reduced non-billable overtime, and enhanced overall performance. His ability to balance innovation with operational excellence has solidified Priority 1 Security’s reputation as an industry leader.

Parth’s commitment to personal and professional growth is evident in his academic achievements and continuous pursuit of certifications. With a Master of Science in National Security, he stays ahead of industry trends, ensuring his leadership is both informed and forward-thinking. His holistic approach, which emphasizes mental and physical well-being, has further shaped his reputation as a visionary leader.

Outside his professional endeavors, Parth is dedicated to philanthropy, actively engaging in charity work and volunteering. His contributions to local and global initiatives reflect his core values of integrity, service, and community empowerment, leaving a lasting impact beyond the business world.

Parth’s inspiring journey demonstrates that with dedication, strategic thinking, and a commitment to excellence, extraordinary achievements are possible. As he continues to lead Priority 1 Security with a clear vision for the future, Parth Thaker’s story serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring professionals and leaders in any field.

Conclusion

As we look ahead to 2025, Dame Neslyn Watson-Druée, Rajiv Sagar, Mirza Sajid Khan, Marc Clapasson, Michelle Lauren, Nada Adwan, Dr. Desziree Richardson, Ritu Chopra, Parth Thaker, and Nahid Hayoun stand as shining examples of leadership and innovation in today’s fast-paced world. Each of these leaders has carved a unique path, driven by a shared commitment to excellence, empowerment, and transformative change. Their contributions span industries and continents, shaping the future of business with groundbreaking ideas and visionary strategies.

These leaders are not only achieving success within their respective fields, but they are also driving positive change, improving lives, and inspiring others to dream bigger. Whether it’s through pioneering technology, championing diversity, or creating new avenues for global collaboration, they are redefining what it means to be a leader in the modern world. Their influence extends far beyond the boardroom, as they continue to leave a lasting impact on society and the next generation of entrepreneurs and professionals.

In the coming years, we can expect even greater achievements from these remarkable individuals. As they continue to push boundaries, embrace new challenges, and inspire those around them, their stories will undoubtedly be a source of motivation for aspiring leaders. The world is evolving, and these top 10 leaders are at the forefront of driving that change, shaping the future with their resilience, vision, and determination.

The future is in the hands of leaders like Dame Neslyn Watson-Druée, Rajiv Sagar, Mirza Sajid Khan, Marc Clapasson, Michelle Lauren, Nada Adwan, Dr. Desziree Richardson, Ritu Chopra, Parth Thaker, and Nahid Hayoun. As we watch their journeys unfold, we are reminded of the immense power of leadership to shape industries, inspire change, and drive global success. We look forward to seeing what they accomplish next, knowing their impact will continue to inspire and guide the leaders of tomorrow.

Also Read:- 

• Inspiring Stories from 10 Visionary Leaders Across the Globe
• Top 10 Women Business Owners to Watch in 2024-25
• From Tradition to Transformation: The Visionary Leaders of Saudi Arabia