As the Windy City continues to evolve, these 20 trailblazers—ranging from tech visionaries and entrepreneurial masterminds to cultural icons and creative game-changers—are leading the charge. They are not just shaping the future of Chicago, but redefining its vibrant culture, business landscape, and innovation scene. Whether you're interested in cutting-edge technology, local fashion trends, or the voices driving social change, these influencers are setting the stage for what's next in one of America's most dynamic cities. Stay ahead of the curve and get inspired by the people who are making waves and leaving a lasting impact on Chicago in 2025 and beyond. Here's the list of the Top 20 Influencers in Chicago in 2025.
1. Michelle Obama
Instagram Followers: 11.1M
Niche: Advocacy, Writing, Charity
Why Follow: Michelle Obama is a lawyer, author, and the former First Lady of the United States, known for her powerful influence in advocating for women's rights, education, and social change. Raised on the South Side of Chicago, her personal journey from a working-class neighborhood to the White House has made her an inspiration to millions. Through her best-selling memoir, Becoming, Michelle shares her experiences as a wife, mother, and public figure, offering a deeply personal look at the challenges and triumphs that shaped her life. Beyond her literary success, Michelle continues to champion causes that promote equality and opportunity, especially in the areas of education and youth empowerment. Her philanthropic efforts and advocacy have earned her widespread recognition, including multiple awards for her tireless contributions to society. Michelle Obama’s legacy is one of resilience, compassion, and the unwavering belief that we all have the power to create change.
2. Polo G
Instagram Followers: 10.2M
Niche: Music
Why Follow: Polo G, born Taurus Tremani Bartlett, is a highly influential American rapper and musician hailing from Chicago. Known for his distinctive blend of trap music, Polo G seamlessly merges melodic flows with raw, street-inspired lyricism. His breakthrough came with the massive hit single "Pop Out," followed by other chart-toppers like "Flex" and "Rapstar." Over the years, Polo G has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Lil Wayne, DaBaby, and Nicki Minaj. His discography includes critically acclaimed albums such as "Die a Legend" and "The GOAT," which showcase his evolution as an artist. What sets Polo G apart is his ability to craft introspective and deeply relatable lyrics, addressing hard-hitting topics like poverty, violence, mental health, and the struggles of growing up in a turbulent environment. His vulnerability and authenticity have earned him a dedicated fanbase, positioning him as one of the prominent voices in contemporary hip-hop.
Pro Tip for Brands:
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3. Matthew Sturniolo
TikTok Followers: 6.7M
Niche: Music, Travel, lifeStyle
Why Follow: Matthew Sturniolo is a rising YouTuber and content creator, best known for his collaborative channel with his triplet brothers, Chris and Nick. With a growing following of over 25k subscribers, the trio creates a wide range of entertaining content, from vlogs and challenges to travel diaries, all designed to engage and entertain their audience. Matthew often offers a glimpse into his personal life, sharing his passions for places like Arizona and Chicago, as well as insights into his journey as a 19-year-old navigating the world. In addition to his YouTube career, Matthew is also an aspiring musician, showcasing his love for music by releasing his own tracks. Despite his youth, he has quickly made a name for himself as both a promising content creator and an up-and-coming artist, with a bright future ahead in both realms.
4. Lonzo Ball
Instagram Followers: 18.3M
Niche: Sports, Business
Why Follow: Lonzo Ball is a professional basketball player, entrepreneur, and multi-faceted influencer. Drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2017 after a standout college career at UCLA, he now plays for the Chicago Bulls in the NBA. Beyond basketball, Lonzo has built a diverse entrepreneurial portfolio. He founded his own fashion brand, Big Baller Brand, which has made waves in the streetwear and sports fashion scene. Additionally, he launched Triple B Records, his own record label, further expanding his influence in the entertainment industry. Not stopping there, Lonzo recently ventured into the world of digital assets with his own non-fungible token (NFT) collection, capitalizing on the growing trend of blockchain technology. Highly active on social media, Lonzo uses his platforms to connect with his fans, sharing insights into his career, business endeavors, and personal life.
5. G Herbo
Instagram Followers: 7.8M
Niche: Music
Why Follow: Chicago rapper G Herbo gained recognition with his debut album "Humble Beast" in 2017, which landed in the Top 25 of the Billboard Top 200. His follow-up, "PTSD," earned critical praise for addressing mental health issues, with the platinum-certified title track becoming a hit. Known for his advocacy on mental health and social change, G Herbo has used his platform to support the black community. In 2021, he partnered with Chance the Rapper to gift custom Air Force 1 sneakers to all students and staff at his alma mater, Hyde Park Academy.
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6. Puja Tailor Khan
Youtube Followers: 3.86M
Niche: LifeStyle, Motherhood, Family
Why Follow: Puja Tailor Khan is a Chicago-based social media influencer, wife, and new mother who has captured the hearts of over 1 million Instagram followers. Along with her husband, Reza, an Indian, Pakistani, and Persian couple, she shares their unique cultural journey and family life, offering inspiration on living with purpose and loving deeply. As a new mom, Puja is passionate about discussing her parenting journey, from navigating breastfeeding and formula feeding to the significance of self-care and embracing the fleeting moments of motherhood. Puja collaborates with brands like Coterie, known for their high-quality baby products, to share her authentic experiences with her growing audience, empowering fellow parents and caregivers.
7. Chance The Rapper
Instagram Followers: 3.86M
Niche: Music
Why Follow: Chance The Rapper is an influential musician, rapper, and activist renowned for his socially conscious music and impactful philanthropy. He gained widespread acclaim with the release of his albums "The Big Day" and "Coloring Book," the latter earning him three Grammy Awards in 2017. Known for blending catchy melodies with thought-provoking lyrics, Chance uses his platform to address issues such as social justice, education, and mental health. Beyond his music, Chance has made substantial contributions to various causes, donating millions to support charities and initiatives. A proud Chicago native, he has worked tirelessly to uplift his hometown, focusing on improving opportunities for youth and supporting underserved communities. His efforts have cemented him as not only a musical icon but also a transformative force for positive change.
Pro Tip for Brands: Chance The Rapper's powerful influence extends far beyond music, making him an ideal partner for brands aiming to align with social causes and community-driven initiatives. Brands can leverage his platform to promote products or campaigns that reflect values of social justice, education, and youth empowerment. When collaborating with influcencers like Chance, ensure your messaging resonates with his passionate following, who value authenticity and advocacy. To effectively track the success of your partnership, SocialBook provides detailed analytics on engagement, audience reach, and content performance—ensuring your brand’s collaboration with influencers like Chance The Rapper is impactful and aligns with your values.
8. Kate Steinberg
TikTok Followers: 2.6M
Niche: LifeStyle, Pop Culture
Why Follow: Kate Steinberg is a Chicago-based content creator and copywriter who has carved out a niche by creating nostalgic content that transports her audience back to the iconic 2000s era. With a unique blend of humor and relatability, Kate brings memories from that time to life, resonating deeply with millennials. She engages her growing following on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where she shares videos, images, and stories centered around 2000s pop culture, fashion, music, and trends. Kate's content not only evokes fond memories but also sparks conversations about how these trends shaped the generation that experienced them. Through her creative posts, she has become a go-to source for those longing to revisit the past while celebrating its influence on today’s culture.
9. Korporate Bidness
Youtube Followers: 2.7M
Niche: Music, Comedy
Why Follow: Korporate Bidness is a multifaceted entertainer and rising artist from Chicago, celebrated for his infectious comedic style and impressive music career. Known for his ability to seamlessly blend humor with his musical pursuits, Korporate recently dropped his debut album "The Proposal," showcasing his diverse talents. With nearly half a billion views on his YouTube channel, Korporate has built a massive following, with fans drawn to his unique personality and engaging content. He also maintains an active presence on Instagram, where he shares entertaining videos and interacts with his growing audience. With his distinctive style and undeniable charisma, Korporate has become a cultural icon, capturing the hearts of fans and solidifying his place in the entertainment industry.
10. Dean Sarama
TikTok Followers: 5.4M
Niche: Sports
Why Follow: Dean Sarama, also known by his online moniker Deanobballin, is a Chicago-based basketball player and dynamic content creator. Combining his love for basketball with entertaining challenges and pranks, Dean has captured the attention of a wide audience across social media platforms. His YouTube channel features a variety of exciting content, including high-energy 1v1 basketball matchups and playful challenges, offering a unique blend of athleticism and humor. Known for his relatable and engaging personality, Dean’s videos resonate with fans of all ages, making him a popular figure in both the sports and entertainment spheres. With a growing following, Dean continues to inspire and entertain, cementing his presence as a content creator in the sports and lifestyle space.
11. Sophia Bush Hughes
Instagram Followers: 4.6M
Niche: Activist, Entertainment
Why Follow: Sophia Bush Hughes is an accomplished American actress, passionate activist, and co-founder of the nonprofit organization I Am a Voter. Best known for her iconic roles in hit TV series like One Tree Hill and Chicago P.D., Sophia has used her platform to become a powerful advocate for social change. Beyond her acting career, she is deeply involved in humanitarian efforts and political activism, with a strong focus on women’s rights and environmental advocacy. As a vocal supporter of abortion rights, Sophia has been an outspoken critic of the growing number of abortion bans in the U.S. She is also the co-founder of the podcast Work in Progress, where she engages in meaningful discussions about social justice with experts and fellow activists. Through her multi-faceted career, Sophia continues to champion causes she believes in, making a significant impact both in front of and behind the camera.
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12. Siiri Parks
TikTok Followers: 5.5M
Niche: Beauty, Fashion
Why Follow: Siiri Parks is a dynamic TikTok influencer, boasting a massive following of over 3.8 million users who tune in for her engaging content. Known for her humor, hair tutorials, and genuine personality, Siiri has built a reputation as a hairstylist who combines beauty tips with a refreshing dose of authenticity. In addition to her social media success, she’s set to make a notable appearance at America’s Beauty Show in Chicago in April 2023, solidifying her presence in the beauty industry. Beyond her talents as a creator, Siiri is an advocate for self-worth and kindness, using her platform to empower her audience to embrace their true selves and stand up for what they believe in. With a unique blend of beauty expertise and heart, Siiri continues to inspire millions to live confidently and authentically.
13. John Summit
Instagram Followers: 1M
Niche: Music, Dance
Why Follow: John Summit, hailing from Chicago, has quickly risen to prominence in the dance music scene, becoming one of the industry's most exciting and dynamic talents. Known for his energetic, feel-good tracks, Summit blends classic house beats with melodic influences and modern production techniques, a combination that has earned him over 5 million monthly listeners on Spotify. His chart-topping success was highlighted in 2021 when he was named the top-selling artist across all genres on Beatport, and his single "Human" claimed the #1 spot on US Dance radio. Summit’s infectious sound has led to performances at some of the world’s most prestigious festivals, including Coachella, Lollapalooza, Tomorrowland, and Bonnaroo, among others. In addition to his success as a DJ and producer, he recently launched his own label and event brand, 'Off The Grid', further expanding his reach and influence in the dance music world.
14. Natalya Syanova
Instagram Followers: 1.3M
Niche: Baking, Family, LifeStyle
Why Follow: Natalya Syanova is a bread-baking enthusiast based in Chicago, sharing her passion on Instagram and YouTube. As the author of "Sourdough Baking with Kids: The Science Behind Baking Bread Loaves with Your Entire Family," she makes baking accessible for families. Her recipes include flatbread, brioche with freeze-dried strawberries, ciabatta, and pita bread, with easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions. Natalya’s posts inspire others to create homemade, delicious baked goods, offering both culinary tips and fun baking experiences for all levels.
15. Scottie Pippen
Instagram Followers: 2.5M
Niche: Sports, Business, Technology
Why Follow: Scottie Pippen, a legendary former NBA player, is widely recognized for his pivotal role in the Chicago Bulls’ dominance during the 1990s, winning six championships alongside Michael Jordan. A two-time Olympic gold medalist, Pippen’s legacy in basketball is cemented, but he has since transitioned into entrepreneurship. He recently launched his bourbon brand, DIGITS, and unveiled his sneaker line, SP33, expanding his influence beyond sports. A proud father, Pippen frequently shares heartfelt moments with his children on social media, connecting with fans on a personal level. Additionally, he is a vocal advocate for Web3 technologies, engaging in discussions on Twitter Spaces. Pippen continues to be an influential figure, balancing his athletic legacy with ventures in business, lifestyle, and technology.
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16. Anthony Adams
Instagram Followers: 1.9M
Niche: Sports, Comedy
Why Follow: Anthony Adams, a retired NFL player, is best known for his 9-year career with the San Francisco 49ers and Chicago Bears. Since stepping off the football field, Adams has transitioned into the entertainment industry, co-hosting Fox Chicago’s Inside The Bears, Big Ten Network’s Tailgate Show, and ABC’s The Great American Baking Show. Beyond his media ventures, he is a co-founder of ALL SOCIAL MEDIA, an initiative that expands his influence in the digital world. Active on social platforms like Instagram, where he goes by @spiceadams, he engages a massive following with his infectious sense of humor, often sharing funny skits and entertaining videos. Adams also runs an online store where he sells his own merchandise, blending his sports legacy with his vibrant social media persona.
17. David Castain
TikTok Followers: 1.4M
Niche: Travel, LifeStyle, Entrepreneurship
Why Follow: David Castain is a highly successful serial entrepreneur, travel influencer, philanthropist, and licensed life coach. Recognized for his achievements, he is included in the Forbes List and serves as a member of the Entrepreneur Leadership Network. A sought-after speaker, David has addressed audiences at prestigious institutions such as Harvard University and has delivered impactful talks on TED. As the CEO of David Castain and Associates, a forward-thinking marketing firm, he has built a reputation for conceptual innovation. David holds a Bachelor’s degree from Howard University, a Master’s degree from Georgetown University, and is on the verge of earning his Ph.D. from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. An active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated, he is deeply committed to giving back through his philanthropic efforts, particularly through the David Castain Foundation.
18. Frank Bergquist
TikTok Followers: 1.8M
Niche: Comedy
Why Follow: Frank Bergquist, better known as Frank, is a rising social media star with a massive following of 1.8 million fans on TikTok. Hailing from Chicago, IL, Frank has made a name for himself by combining humor with relatable content that resonates with his audience. His TikTok is filled with everything from witty one-liners to everyday moments, giving followers a peek into his life. In addition to his TikTok success, Frank is also growing his presence on Instagram and YouTube, where he shares even more of his unique and entertaining content under the handle omfgitsrama. With his authentic and engaging personality, Frank continues to win over fans and keep them coming back for more.
19. Gray Fagan
TikTok Followers: 5.1M
Niche: Comedy, LifeStyle
Why Follow: Gray Fagan is an up-and-coming content creator known for his unique blend of humor, creativity, and relatable insights. With a knack for crafting engaging and entertaining videos, Gray has quickly gained a loyal following on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. His content ranges from lighthearted comedy to thought-provoking moments, all with a personal touch that connects deeply with his audience. Whether he’s sharing witty one-liners, life lessons, or behind-the-scenes glimpses, Gray’s authenticity shines through in everything he posts. If you're looking for fresh, fun content with a relatable vibe, Gray Fagan is definitely worth following!
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20. Farzaan Aleem
Instagram Followers: 1.2M
Niche: Charity, LifeStyle
Why Follow: Farzaan Aleem, also known as @chi.suhoor on Instagram, is a passionate advocate for ending childhood hunger and organizing the Chicago Suhoor Festival. Through his platform, Farzaan promotes various charitable causes, often inviting sponsors to join in supporting these important initiatives. Alongside his advocacy, he shares glimpses of his personal experiences, blending humor with cultural insights. His posts offer both entertainment and a call to action, encouraging his followers to donate and get involved. For updates on the festival and to support his mission, be sure to follow @chi.suhoor!
Final Thought
As Chicago continues to thrive, these 20 influencers are driving change, sparking creativity, and making an undeniable impact on the city's vibrant culture. Whether you're passionate about music, fashion, charity, or business, these individuals are reshaping Chicago’s future in 2025 and beyond. Stay ahead of the trends and be inspired by their unique stories and accomplishments. To connect with these influential figures and optimize your own influencer marketing strategy, SocialBook provides invaluable tools for brands to analyze engagement, reach, and audience demographics, helping you make informed decisions and maximize your success. Don’t miss out on the voices shaping the Windy City’s next chapter—follow them today!