Meet Atlanta’s 2026 Inspiring Innovators Under 40
Driven by passion, purpose and a love for their communities, this year’s Inspiring Innovators Under 40 are challenging what’s possible. From transforming healthcare to reimagining self-care and breaking down barriers, these industry leaders are doing more than moving the needle, they’re improving everyday life for Atlantans across the city. Meet this year’s class and see how to get involved in what comes next.
Photography by Elle Wood Photography. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency. Photos shot on location at Yeppa & Co.—Beltline
Brandon Chubb, 32, Reinventing Recovery
Six knee surgeries and two ACL tears later, NFL linebacker Brandon Chubb hung up his helmet and took on a new mission of creating an inclusive, elevated, community-driven space for recovery therapies once reserved for pro athletes.
Savannah Taraxacum, 35, Rewriting The Rules of wellness
As the founder of Savvy and Strong and co-founder of Softcore Wellness, Savannah Taraxacum is shifting fitness away from punishment.
Taylor Cooper, 25, Restoring The Heart of Nursing
A nurse and childhood cancer survivor, Cooper is challenging the status quo with Better Health Nursing, a concierge nursing service built on relationships, education and consistency.
Malik Brown, 36, Bridging Gaps to Reshape Systems
As Atlanta’s first Director of LGBTQ+ Affairs and Managing Director of the Atlanta LGBTQ+ Community Center Initiative, Malik Brown’s work bridges government and historically overlooked communities.
Celeste & Lorena Jaime, 39, Taking the Family Business Further
Working alongside their family, Lorena and Celeste Jaime are turning CT Restaurant Group’s five neighborhood restaurants into platforms for impact. 
Livia O. Kell, 39, Empowering Patients at Every Step
As founder of Rooted Health Integrative Medicine, Livia O. Kell focuses on prevention, personalization and long-term wellness, helping women, immigrants and people from all walks of life be seen and heard in the healthcare.
Jenna Ellis, 37, Nurturing Tomorrow’s Leaders
As owner of The Goddard School on Windward Parkway in Alpharetta, Jenna Ellis is redefining early childhood education through a whole-child approach grounded in both research and experience.
Jasmine Marie, 35, Breathing New Life into Wellness
As the force behind Black Girls Breathing, Jasmine Marie is building more than just a brand; she’s leading a cultural shift in how we approach wellness.
Matthew Bowling, 29, Breaking the Hospitality Mold
As President of Lanier Islands Resort, Matthew Bowling is transforming the lakeside destination into one of the South’s most sought-after escapes.
Elisa Molina, 39, Empowering First-Gen Leaders
As Founder and CEO of COVEDOZA and Director of Operations for Junior Achievement of Georgia, Molina champions first-generation professionals, entrepreneurs and underrepresented communities.
