• Influencers
Jun 13, 2013 8:30 AM EDT
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30Under30Header
The Most Powerful 20-Somethings in NYC
header Everything in NYC is bigger, faster, and more intense. Its humble inhabitants don't just keep the pace; they set it. That’s why we’re proud to present Refinery29’s second annual 30 Under 30 list, as the ultimate homage to those extraordinary people whose knack for pushing boundaries and breaking rules, quite simply, blows our minds. And, though we stand for life, love, and the pursuit of personal style, this hot list goes far beyond influencers and starlets, focusing on true pioneers who are forging new paths for the future of their pursuits.

To wit, a political consultant who just happens to star on a controversial TV series, a design duo whose debut collection is already award-winning, and an athlete who KILLS it on the dance floor. Innovators, iconoclasts, and industry wunderkinds — they’re all here, with knowledge to drop, lessons to teach, and inspiration to share. It's true what they say — if you can make it here, you’ll make it anywhere. And if a group of actors reinventing live performance and a boundless chef blazing his own hyperunique trail can do it, we’ve got a feeling their fires might stoke yours, too.

Take a look at all of the awesome talent below, and click on any of the pics to get to know the superstars behind these gorgeous faces. Or, just click here to start the slideshow.
30 Under 30Elliott BreeceXianchuan XieTilda LindstamStevie DanceEmily WeissEdward SongVictor CruzIdil TabancaMelissa ButlerClaire DistenfeldEdward BessEmmett ShineLeandra MedineShaun RossChristelle De CastroAmanda KludtJustin WarrenJoana AvillezBellevanceSejal HathiCesar VegaZebra KatzElina AsantiPig PenAudrey GelmanPari DukovicSydney ReisingCaroline PolachekKellee Khalil