The Defender Network is celebrating young movers, shakers and trailblazers who left their mark on 2024. From small but mighty prodigies to boundary-breaking creatives, these under-40 powerhouses reminded us that age is no barrier to making history. Here’s our roundup of the top stories that inspired, surprised and wowed us this year.
Meet Chandler Hughes: The 6-year-old genius
Young Chandler Hughes is part of a community of the brightest minds worldwide who have scored at the 98th percentile or higher on approved intelligence tests. Credit: Jimmie Aggison
When most kids are mastering the alphabet, Chandler Hughes was breezing through novels. This Texas prodigy, just 6 years old, became a member of Mensa, the international high-IQ society, cementing his status as one of the smartest kids in the country. With aspirations of becoming a doctor, Chandler shows that remarkable intelligence isn’t just about impressing adults — it’s a glimpse into a future where his talents could reshape the medical field.
William North preserves diasporic traditions through art
William North hosts his first solo exhibition, “The Conjuring Man Lives.” Credit: Jimmie Aggison
Houston artist William North IV stunned art lovers this year with his powerful solo exhibition, “The Conjure Man Lives.” Drawing from the stories of his ancestors and the rich traditions of the African Diaspora, North’s work delves deep into the connections between family history, community and forgotten cultural practices. Inspired by his grandfather’s accounts of their lineage, North used his art to resurrect neglected traditions, offering viewers a chance to see the beauty and resilience of Black heritage through his evocative pieces.
Isaac Yowman: A creative force in Houston’s film, music scene
Isaac Yowman describes his work with Beyoncé as one of his career’s highlights. Credit: Jimmie Aggison
Isaac Yowman proved this year that Houston’s creative pulse beats stronger than ever. As the Grammy-nominated founder of IYO Agency, Yowman has become a cornerstone of the city’s hip-hop and film industries. Whether directing high-profile projects for superstars like Beyoncé or mentoring emerging artists, Yowman has a knack for innovation that has made him one of the most respected names in the game.
Joel Thompson redefines opera for a new generation
Houston Grand Opera recruited Joel Thompson as its first full-time composer-in-residence, in a role that aims to strengthen connections with Houstonians and their communities through opera. Credit: Houston Grand Opera
Joel Thompson made history this year as the Houston Grand Opera’s first full-time composer-in-residence. With a mission to amplify Black voices in a traditionally white-dominated space, Thompson is reimagining classical music’s future. His residency is more than a title — it’s a “laboratory” where he experiments with storytelling, music and community outreach. By weaving the richness of Black narratives into opera, Thompson ensures that the art form becomes more inclusive, relevant, and accessible.
Annette Addo-Yobo makes history in pageantry
Miss Texas Addo-Yobo was born in Ghana but was raised in Canada and the U.S. She studied at the University of Texas at Dallas and in 2020, earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology. Credit: Miss Texas Scholarship Organization
Annette Addo-Yobo turned heads and broke barriers this year as the first immigrant-born Ghanaian to win the coveted title of Miss Texas. Growing up, Addo-Yobo didn’t fit the stereotypical mold of a pageant queen, but her determination and authenticity proved unstoppable. Representing Texas with poise and passion, she’s used her platform to champion autism safety, inspired by her younger brother’s condition.
