In 2022, the influencer marketing industry experienced remarkable growth, reaching an impressive $16.4 billion. This surge in revenue was largely attributed to the increasing popularity of short-form video platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and BeReal. These platforms provided influencers and content creators with powerful tools to reach and engage with their audiences in innovative ways.
As we venture into 2024, there seems to be no sign of slowing down in the influencer and creator economy. Social media consumption continues to climb, driven by the Millennial and Gen Z demographics. Brands are constantly seeking new avenues to connect with these digitally savvy consumers, leading to ongoing evolution and experimentation within the influencer marketing landscape.
Whether you’re a brand exploring new marketing strategies or an aspiring influencer seeking to establish yourself in the industry, staying informed about emerging influencers is crucial. To assist in this endeavor, we’ve compiled a curated list of up-and-coming influencers to watch in 2024.
By spotlighting these promising influencers, brands can identify potential collaboration opportunities to enhance their marketing efforts. Likewise, aspiring influencers can draw inspiration from the success stories of their peers and leverage platforms to establish their online presence and amplify their reach. As the influencer landscape continues to evolve, staying attuned to emerging talent will be key to driving success in influencer marketing campaigns.
Learn about influencer platforms here.
Up and Coming Influencers of 2024:
1. Alexandra Kaufmann
Instagram: bahayogi
Followers: 488K
Age: 31
Location: Nassau, Bahamas
Target audience: Men and women, ages 18-65+
With a mantra of “More practice, less ego,” Alexandra Kaufmann, known as bahayogi on Instagram, has cultivated a substantial following of nearly half a million users. Through her platform, she has built a thriving yoga business, traveling the globe and instructing notable figures like Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, and Jennifer Lawrence.
As Kaufmann’s influence continues to expand, so does her entrepreneurial vision. She eagerly anticipates the growth and diversification of her business, currently developing new courses, organizing retreats, and even launching a swimwear line. Keep an eye out for her upcoming excursions to Greece in August and Kenya in November, and access her mobility and beginner’s yoga courses through her Wix website.
2. Izzy and Ailbhe Keane (Izzy Wheels)
Instagram: izzywheels
Followers: 50.2K
Ages: 25 and 29
Location: Dublin, Ireland
Target audience: Wheelchair users
Sisters and inseparable friends, Ailbhe (pronounced Alva) and Izzy Keane, hail from Galway, Ireland. Ailbhe, a graduate of The National College of Art and Design (NCAD), conceived a line of removable wheelchair covers for Izzy, who was born with Spina Bifida and is paralyzed from the waist down. Their vibrant brand, Izzy Wheels, gained viral attention after a video garnered 13 million views in just one week.
The duo has partnered with renowned global brands such as Barbie, Disney, Marvel, and Hello Kitty, leveraging their platform to raise funds and awareness for disability-related charities. Izzy Wheels has been featured in prestigious publications including Vogue, O, It’s Nice That, and TechCrunch, and the sisters were recognized in Forbes’ “30 Under 30” list.
3. The Planet D Instagram
Instagram: theplanetd
Followers: 204K
Ages: 50 and 51
Location: Canada
Target audience: Ages 35-55, high-income households with a passion for travel and adventure
Dave and Deb, the dynamic duo behind The Planet D, have been recognized by Forbes as one of the top 10 travel influencers globally. Their mantra, “adventure is for everyone,” has resonated with audiences since they began their journey in 2009. Over the years, they have explored 120 countries across all seven continents, inspiring countless individuals to embark on their own adventures.
The Planet D’s blog has earned numerous accolades for its captivating written and visual content, receiving awards from esteemed organizations such as the Society of American Travel Writers and the North American Travel Journalists Association.
As they look ahead to the upcoming year, Dave and Deb plan to embrace change by taking on fewer contracts and traveling the world on their own terms. They intend to return to their roots, embarking on road trips and exploring countries for extended periods, promising an exciting year filled with new experiences and adventures.
4. Aly Gray
Instagram: alygrayfit
Followers: 8,434
Age: 29
Location: Destin, Florida
Target audience: Busy moms or business professionals who enjoy strength training, average age 25-60
Aly Gray, a self-proclaimed foodie, fun junkie, and health addict, has established herself as a fitness entrepreneur, offering a comprehensive fitness experience for her clients. Over the past 2.5 years, Aly has curated an extensive On-Demand library featuring more than 350 classes and 11 fitness challenges. Additionally, she has authored an online cookbook and curated custom playlists for her followers.
With 500 AGFit members from around the globe, Aly provides access to her recipes, blog, and exclusive branded merchandise through her shop page, offering a holistic approach to fitness and wellness.
5. Zander Whitehurst
Instagram: zanderwhitehurst
Followers: 384K
Location: London, United Kingdom
Target audience: Individuals aiming to kick start or advance their tech careers
Zander Whitehurst stands as a prominent figure in the tech industry, renowned for his contributions as a product designer and entrepreneur. He is the founder of Memorisely, a platform that provides live bootcamps and online courses tailored for individuals seeking to embark on their tech journeys. Additionally, Whitehurst serves on the Educator Advisory Board for Figma, further solidifying his expertise and influence in the field.
However, it is perhaps Whitehurst’s captivating short-form videos on UX/UI design that have garnered him significant recognition. With a staggering 159.7K followers on TikTok and over 1.2 million likes, his videos offer engaging and informative insights into the realm of design.
Driven by a passion for democratizing design education, Whitehurst is committed to making design accessible and affordable to aspiring individuals worldwide. He draws inspiration from a diverse community spanning over 150 countries, whose collective energy and eagerness to learn motivate him daily.
6. Shayda Campbell
Instagram: shaydacampbell
Followers: 176K
Age: 39
Location: Stratford, Ontario, Canada
Target audience: Typically women around her own age, but she welcomes adults of all ages interested in overcoming the fear of making art
Shayda Campbell, a Canadian artist and content creator, has cultivated a dedicated following through her YouTube channel, where she champions the idea of transforming everyday artifacts into objects of beauty. With over one million subscribers, Campbell’s warm and inviting videos exude a sense of tranquility, akin to spending time with a close friend while engaging in creative endeavors.
Embracing her mantra of surrounding oneself with beauty, Campbell’s content extends beyond YouTube to platforms like Patreon and a series of online e-courses. Recently, she launched her online print shop, offering her designs on cards and art prints, a venture she’s eagerly anticipated for five years.
7. Kristen Addis
Instagram: bemytravelmuse
Followers: 119K
Age: 36
Location: Nevada
Target audience: Millennial women
Kristen Addis embarked on a transformative journey after leaving her investment banking job to pursue her passion for travel. In 2012, she founded Be My Travel Muse, a travel blog dedicated to empowering women to embark on solo adventures. Over the years, Addis has explored more than 60 countries, sharing her experiences and insights with her growing audience.
Recognized as one of the top women’s travel bloggers globally, Addis has been featured in esteemed publications such as Business Insider, Vogue, and Marie Claire. Moreover, she has successfully monetized her blog, earning up to $50k per month. Currently, Addis looks forward to embarking on new adventures with her newborn son, eager to introduce him to the wonders of the world.
8. William LaChance
Instagram: wmlachance
Followers: 82.4K
Age: 50
Location: St. Louis, Missouri, USA
Target audience: Peers, primarily, as LaChance values the global conversation and insight into contemporary art that social media facilitates. Collectors and collaborators also engage with his work, drawn by its unique blend of material exploration, abstract identity, and narrative expression.
Renowned contemporary artist William LaChance is celebrated for his vibrant and dynamic kaleidoscope pieces, each a mesmerizing fusion of color, form, and narrative. His artistic vision transcends traditional boundaries, blurring the lines between high art and applied arts with captivating results. LaChance’s paintings explore shifting hierarchies of material exploration, abstract identity, formal space, and narrative expression, inviting viewers to delve into a world where artistry meets storytelling.
LaChance’s artwork has found its way into prestigious collections worldwide, including those of The U.S. Federal Reserve, the National Broadcasting Company, Nike, and the Kemper Museum in Kansas City. Notably, his mural in Kinloch, Missouri, earned acclaim from Architectural Digest as the best-designed basketball court globally. In 2023, LaChance held a solo exhibition at Madison Gallery in California and showcased his work internationally at esteemed galleries in Toronto, Montreal, Berlin, Barcelona, Tel Aviv, and Dubai.
9. Rebecca Lueck
Instagram: beccajeanphotography
Followers: 5,935
Age: 40
Location: Portland, Oregon
Target audience: Moms and photographers
Becca Lueck, a former educator turned full-time photographer, infuses her work with a deep love for capturing the essence of childhood and family. With a keen eye for the magical moments of life, Lueck’s photography radiates warmth and joy, showcasing the beauty of family bonds against the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest’s breathtaking landscapes.
As a mother of two, Lueck’s passion for family shines through her award-winning photography, characterized by vibrant colors, playful energy, and stunning natural settings. In 2023, she embarked on various travel adventures, including destinations like Joshua Tree, Las Vegas, Alaska, and an eagerly anticipated trip to Scotland and Ireland with her best friend to celebrate a milestone birthday.
10. Paul Fuentes
Instagram: paulfuentes_photo
Followers: 70.4K
Age: 34
Location: London, United Kingdom
Target audience: Creative individuals, travel and design enthusiasts, photographers, and filmmakers aged 25 to 40, with a slight skew towards women
Paul Fuentes’ artistic creations transport viewers to a realm of whimsy and nostalgia, drawing inspiration from the timeless allure of mid-century America, the sun-soaked vibes of Palm Springs, California, and the majestic allure of big cats. Each of Fuentes’ dreamy photographs is a masterful blend of elements, meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of wonder and delight.
Together with his partner, Ilse, Fuentes curates two distinct collections of art prints: The Design Collection and The Travel Collection. Their collaborative work captivates audiences worldwide, inviting them on a visual journey through iconic destinations and imaginative landscapes, where creativity knows no bounds.
11. Abi Connick
Instagram: itsabiconnick
Followers: 182K
Age: 25
Location: Bristol, UK
Target audience: Designers and freelance creatives aged 21 to 30, seeking to enhance their technical design skills, gain confidence, and build successful businesses
Abi Connick, a visionary brand designer, educator, and entrepreneur, finds inspiration in both her personal life and her mission to empower fellow creatives. With a passion for helping others realize their full potential, Connick’s content and resources serve as catalysts for growth, motivation, and transformation within the creative community.
Supported by her partner, Jack, Connick embraces the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, guiding aspiring designers and freelancers towards their goals. Her dedication to fostering a supportive and empowering environment reflects her commitment to championing the dreams and aspirations of others, driving positive change within the industry and beyond.
`12. Kailash Saravanan
Instagram: kail.designs
Followers: 50K
Age: 21
Location: Chennai, India
Target audience: Individuals seeking to establish an online presence for their business and drive sales.
Kailash Saravanan, a seasoned UI/UX designer, places a strong emphasis on digital wellbeing, inclusivity, and ethics in his work. With three years of industry experience, he has collaborated with startups, individual clients, and corporations, honing his craft and making a significant impact in the design community.
Originally starting his Instagram account as a platform to showcase his portfolio and connect with like-minded individuals, Saravanan’s influence grew rapidly as his posts began to resonate with a global audience. His viral content not only garnered attention but also inspired countless budding designers, leading to mentorship opportunities and invaluable connections within the design industry.
Looking ahead, Saravanan is enthusiastic about advocating for inclusive design practices and exploring the evolving landscape of wearable computing and design for the aging population. His commitment to driving positive change through design reflects his passion for creating meaningful and impactful experiences in the digital realm.
13. Lillian Jackson
Instagram: brunchinlily
Followers: 1,273
Age: 42
Location: Las Vegas, NV
Target audience: Minority women
Lillian Jackson, along with her cofounder Melissa Mason, established Brown Skin Brunchin in 2018, with the aim of fostering a supportive community for minority women. Through their initiative, they’ve successfully cultivated a thriving online platform and app, bringing together thousands of women from diverse backgrounds to connect, share experiences, and empower one another.
Powered by Wix’s versatile tools and resources, Brown Skin Brunchin has expanded its reach, hosting in-person events and gatherings in over 80 locations across the US, Canada, and the Caribbean. Jackson’s vision has transformed the brand into a market leader in the brunch group space, uniting women through social media and real-life interactions.
In 2023, the community saw further growth with the launch of a London chapter, signaling Jackson’s ongoing commitment to expanding the reach and impact of Brown Skin Brunchin on a global scale.
14. Anya Butler
Instagram: meppity
Followers: 41.5K
Age: 21
Location: Los Angeles
Target Audience: Recruiters & animation studios, aspiring young artists, art enthusiasts.
Anya Butler, a multifaceted director, designer, and content creator, draws inspiration from her eclectic upbringing and passion for early 2000s mystery puzzle video games. Her diverse skill set encompasses mixed media artistry, character animation, music production, and wildlife conservation, reflecting her boundless creativity and unwavering dedication to her craft.
At California Institute of the Arts, Butler is immersed in a vibrant community of like-minded creatives, where she collaborates on projects, refines her skills, and explores new avenues of expression. Beyond the classroom, she engages with her audience through her popular YouTube channel, merchandise offerings, and various social media platforms, captivating viewers with her whimsical artwork and infectious enthusiasm.
In the upcoming year, Butler is poised to embark on a new creative endeavor—a captivating animated short film—further solidifying her position as a rising star in the world of animation and design.
15. Katie Costa
Instagram: blynksocial
Followers: 3,329
Age: 23
Location: Atlanta, GA
Target audience: BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and women creatives seeking to build their brands authentically and confidently.
Katie Costa, the visionary founder of BLYNK Social, is on a mission to empower brands to make a bold statement in the digital landscape. With a focus on providing strategic design and social media solutions, Costa’s agency offers clients a fresh perspective rooted in authenticity and inclusivity.
Driven by a passion for creativity and community, Costa finds inspiration in her clients’ diverse stories and aspirations. Through BLYNK Social, she creates immersive brand experiences that resonate with audiences, fostering meaningful connections and driving engagement online and offline.
In 2023, Costa expanded her impact through a series of workshops, empowering entrepreneurs and creatives to unleash their full potential and build their dream brands with confidence and conviction.
16. Tommy Geoco
Instagram: itsdesignertom
Followers: 98.2K
Age: 36
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Target Audience: Designers seeking to enhance their craft and developers aiming to deepen their understanding of design principles.
Tommy Geoco, known as DesignerTom, is a seasoned product designer with over a decade of experience shaping digital experiences and leading design teams in Silicon Valley. Through his engaging social media content and insightful podcast, The Zero Content Design Show, Geoco shares his expertise and passion for design, inspiring a global audience of aspiring designers and developers.
With a keen eye for design patterns and a knack for simplifying complex concepts, Geoco offers invaluable insights into modern product design practices, collaboration techniques, and decision-making processes. His forthcoming workbook, Making Design Decisions, promises to equip designers with practical tools and strategies to accelerate their craft and achieve greater success in their careers.
In the fast-paced world of design, Geoco remains committed to empowering the next generation of creatives and driving innovation through education and mentorship.
