Rema, Lamine Yamal, and Other Rising Stars Named in 2025 TIME100 NEXT List

Nigerian Afrobeats star Rema and Barcelona football sensation Lamine Yamal have been named among the 2025 TIME100 NEXT list, unveiled by Time Magazine on Tuesday, October 1, 2025. The annual list celebrates emerging leaders, creators, and innovators shaping the future of their industries.

This year’s edition spans music, sports, film, politics, technology, and philanthropy. It spotlights individuals driving culture forward and influencing global conversations. TIME editors say the honorees represent “a new generation of power and impact.”

Global Talent Shines on the 2025 TIME100 NEXT List

Rema, born Divine Ikubor, continues to push Afrobeats to global audiences. His chart-topping hit “Calm Down” became a cultural phenomenon, earning billions of streams and an acclaimed remix with Selena Gomez. TIME featured a profile written by Grammy-winning singer Angélique Kidjo, who praised Rema’s originality and global reach. Kidjo described him as “the embodiment of the international success of Afrobeats.”

Barcelona’s 18-year-old winger Lamine Yamal, one of football’s brightest young stars, also made the prestigious list. His exceptional performances for club and country have positioned him as a generational talent. TIME editors highlighted his early achievements and growing influence in global sports.

Faces of the TIME100 NEXT 2025 list — this year’s rising stars redefining music, film, and global culture.

Other honorees include British-Nigerian actor Damson Idris, known for his acclaimed TV and film roles, and Nigerian-American visual artist Toyin Odutola, recognized for reshaping contemporary art narratives. The 2025 class also features Mexican-American pop star Becky G, Canadian singer Tate McRae, British actor Jonathan Bailey, South Korean footballer Lee Kang-in, and British Formula One driver Lando Norris.

TIME also honored individuals from humanitarian and academic fields, including Palestinian surgeon Dr. Ghassan Abu-Sittah and Brazilian activist Anielle Franco. American filmmaker Celine Song, Egyptian squash champion Nouran Gohar, and actress Rachel Zegler were also named, reflecting the list’s broad cultural scope.

Cultural and Industry Impact of the TIME100 NEXT Recognition

The TIME100 NEXT list often predicts the future icons of their fields. For Rema, the honor reinforces Afrobeats’ place on the global stage and cements his role as one of Africa’s most successful music exports. His rise symbolizes how streaming and cross-cultural collaborations are reshaping music worldwide.

Lamine Yamal’s inclusion shows how young athletes are capturing global audiences earlier than ever, with social media and international broadcasting amplifying their influence. For actors like Damson Idris and visual artists like Toyin Odutola, the recognition strengthens their position as cultural changemakers whose stories cross borders.

The 2025 TIME100 NEXT list highlights a new generation of talent breaking barriers and shaping industries. From sports arenas to music stages and art galleries, these names are influencing global culture in real time.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who created the 2025 TIME100 NEXT list?

The list is curated and published by Time Magazine, spotlighting influential rising stars across industries.

Q2: Why was Rema included in the 2025 TIME100 NEXT list?

Rema was honored for his global impact on Afrobeats music, with massive streaming success and cultural influence.

Q3: How old is Lamine Yamal in 2025?

Lamine Yamal is 18 years old and plays as a winger for FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team.

Q4: Which other fields are represented on the TIME100 NEXT list?

The list includes music, film, sports, politics, art, activism, science, and philanthropy.

Q5: Is this list different from the main TIME100 list?

Yes. The TIME100 NEXT list focuses on emerging and rising talents, while the main TIME100 spotlights already established global leaders.