TIME magazine has unveiled its first-ever list of the 100 Most Influential People in Philanthropy for 2025, recognising individuals who are transforming communities worldwide through their vision, generosity, and commitment to social change. The list features a diverse group of leaders, from business magnates and sports icons to artists and activists, who are redefining the meaning of impactful giving in a changing world.
The inaugural list includes philanthropists from 28 countries, reflecting a global movement where private individuals and foundations are stepping in to address urgent social issues, especially as governments and institutions face increasing challenges. This year’s honourees are celebrated for their bold initiatives in education, health, climate action, social equity, and more.
Indian Philanthropists on the TIME100 List
India’s presence on the TIME100 Philanthropy 2025 list is marked by four distinguished names: Mukesh Ambani, Nita Ambani, Azim Premji, and Nikhil Kamath. Mukesh and Nita Ambani, through the Reliance Foundation, have made significant contributions in education, healthcare, disaster response, and sports, donating ₹407 crore (about $48 million) in 2024 alone. Their efforts have empowered millions across the country, with Nita Ambani playing a key role in promoting women’s sports and rural development.
Azim Premji, founder of Wipro, is recognised for his transformative work in public education. As the first Indian to sign the Giving Pledge, he has committed over $29 billion to his foundation, which supports over 8 million children and operates hundreds of teacher learning centres and childcare centres across India. His foundation also plays a vital role in shaping education policy and supporting girls’ education through scholarships.
Nikhil Kamath, co-founder of Zerodha, represents the new generation of Indian philanthropists. He is the youngest Indian to sign the Giving Pledge and is known for his work through the Rainmatter Foundation and the Young India Philanthropic Pledge (YIPP), focusing on climate action, digital education, and youth empowerment.
Global Leaders Who Made the Cut
The TIME100 Philanthropy list features a host of internationally renowned figures who are making a difference across continents. David Beckham, the former footballer, is honoured for his continued advocacy and work as a champion of change, particularly in supporting children and health initiatives. Michael Bloomberg, named the biggest donor of 2024, is recognised for his large-scale contributions to public health, education, and climate action. Oprah Winfrey is celebrated for her decades-long commitment to female education and empowerment, while Melinda French Gates continues to focus on improving the lives of women, girls, and families worldwide.
Warren Buffett, one of the world’s most respected investors, is credited with reshaping the landscape of modern philanthropy through his leadership and the Giving Pledge, encouraging billionaires to commit a majority of their wealth to charitable causes. Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, are acknowledged for their work in mental health, early childhood development, and community well-being.
Other notable names include Dolly Parton, known for her support of literacy and disaster relief; Ken Griffin, for high-impact giving in education and science; MacKenzie Scott, for her transformative, unrestricted donations to hundreds of organisations; Aliko Dangote, for his efforts to improve health and economic opportunities in Africa; and Alice L. Walton, for funding art and holistic health initiatives.
The list also features innovators and leaders like Michael Dell and Susan Dell, Reed Hastings and Patty Quillin, Steve Ballmer and Connie Ballmer, and Jack Ma, who are leveraging their business success for social good. In the field of science and technology, Patrick Collison, Jeff Atwood, and Tim Gill are recognised for their philanthropic work in accelerating scientific progress and supporting LGBTQ+ rights.
Artists and entertainers such as Lin-Manuel Miranda, Ayesha Curry and Stephen Curry, Eric Church, Billie Jean King, Richard Curtis, and Lenny Henry are also celebrated for using their platforms and resources to champion education, disaster relief, and social justice.
The Spirit of Modern Philanthropy
TIME’s editorial team emphasises that the new leaders in philanthropy are not only giving generously but are also eager to see immediate and measurable impact. Many, like Austrian heiress Marlene Engelhorn and Dustin Moskovitz of Good Ventures, are experimenting with new models of giving, including participatory grantmaking and data-driven philanthropy.
The TIME100 Philanthropy list is a testament to the power of individual and collective action in shaping a better world. Whether through large-scale donations, grassroots initiatives, or innovative approaches, the honourees are setting new benchmarks for purposeful giving and inspiring others to follow their lead.
As the world faces complex challenges, the influence of these philanthropists—Indian and global alike—demonstrates that true leadership is measured not just by wealth, but by the vision and compassion with which it is used to uplift humanity.
