Being a true leader means more than getting things done or showing others how to do it. To be truly inspirational, you have to be capable of helping people find their own North Star — something that helps them rediscover what matters to keep them moving forward even through the darkest times.
Last year, we recognized four outstanding leaders in New York, the United States, and Abroad who exemplify these qualities. See who’s been making a difference in their communities and around the world by reviewing our BEAM Lighthouse Leader Award winners from 2025.
2025 NY Lighthouse Leader Award Winner
B Brand visioneer Julie Fahnestock was recognized as a NYC Lighthouse Leader for her commitment to cultivating collaboration in NYC and beyond. Her work emphasizes the importance of aligning organizational culture with societal responsibility.
2025 National Lighthouse Leader Award Winners
Impact and sustainability actioneer Helen Nwosu was recognized as a National Lighthouse Leader for her commitment to advancing inclusive, values-driven leadership within business and community ecosystems. Her work reflects a deep understanding of how culture and proximity shape trust—and how leadership can create space for more equitable participation in systems change.
Sustainable business framework visioneer Tensie Whelanwas recognized as a National Lighthouse Leader for her enduring influence on sustainable business education, research, and practice. Through her work at NYU Stern and beyond, Tensie has helped translate sustainability from aspiration into strategy—equipping leaders with the tools to act with rigor and credibility.
2025 Global Lighthouse Leader Award Winner
Sustainable business and investment impact visioneer Jorge Fontanez was recognized as a Global Lighthouse Leader for his role in advancing business as a force for good through cultural leadership, systems change, and accountability.
As former CEO of B Lab U.S. & Canada, Jorge helped steward the evolution of the B Corp movement during a pivotal moment—one that demands deeper rigor, broader inclusion, and stronger local relevance.
Congratulations to Our 2025 BEAM Lighthouse Leader Award Winners!
The BEAM Awards highlight those who not only do outstanding work but also generate outstanding impact. Our Lighthouse Leaders have a noticeable positive effect on their communities while making it easier for others to find their way towards great achievements.
There are countless other individuals helping motivate and drive their communities to achieve greater impact in NYC, the United States, and beyond. Jury selection for the 2026 BEAM Awards has already been completed, and submissions for our 2026 BEAM Lighthouse Leader Awards will open soon. We hope that you will consider entry to demonstrate your commitment to making a difference on a collective level. Let us know if you are interested in receiving updates, including a notification when applications for the 2026 BEAM Awards are officially open.
As we get set to consider our next set of nominees for 2026, we look forward to the opportunity to highlight those who inspire the communities they serve through their dedication, commitment to values, and capacity to make the world a better place.
