At Secret Media Network, we’ve made it our mission to uncover and share the most unique experiences in our cities, from the hottest new restaurants to cool pop-up events. That’s why we created the SMN100! Secret LA is dedicated to finding unique Angelenos who stand out from the normal crowd. And when it comes to cultural diversity and creative expression, Los Angeles is unmatched!
What is the Secret Media Network 100?
The SMN100 is an annual list that celebrates the entrepreneurs, creators, and innovators redefining what it means to live and play across the United States.
This top 100 list features nominees in four categories:
- Arts & Culture: from tattoo artists to gallery curators, these creatives change our perspectives.
- Experiential & Sport: producers, athletes, and those changing the game.
- Food & Drink: the top chefs, restaurant owners, food influencers, and tastemakers.
- Pioneers: for those who defy categories and redefine the status quo!
Arts and Culture
Charm La’Donna
Growing up in Compton, Charm La’Donna didn’t just dream of the spotlight—she choreographed her path to it. From dancing in the streets of L.A. to shaping the biggest stages in the world, she’s become one of the industry’s most sought-after creative forces. Her visionary choreography has electrified performances for global icons like Kendrick Lamar, Rosalía, Dua Lipa, and Selena Gomez. Bold, innovative, and always ahead of the curve, Charm isn’t just moving to the beat—she’s setting it.
Victoria Adesanmi
Victoria Adesanmi isn’t just the visionary behind the iconic Malibu Barbie Dreamhouse—she’s a creative powerhouse whose designs go far beyond ultra-pink fantasies. A Nigerian-American force in L.A.’s design scene, Victoria’s work blends bold, playful aesthetics with a deep connection to heritage and personal identity. Through her independent practice, Aesthetics Studio, she’s redefining what it means to create with purpose. Whether it’s a vibrant, dreamlike space or a design that tells a story, Victoria is crafting a narrative that reflects both her roots and her vision for the future, all while making waves in the heart of California.
Refik Anadol
In a city like L.A., where technology and creativity collide at every corner, Refik Anadol is leading the charge in blending AI with art. While the intersection of the two can spark debate, Anadol’s work proves that data-driven algorithms can create mesmerizing digital landscapes that feel almost alive. In his groundbreaking “Machine Hallucination” series, he transforms raw data into poetic, immersive environments—pushing the boundaries of what art can be. It’s a vision that echoes Philip K. Dick’s classic question: What are androids dreaming of? And in Anadol’s world, the answer is something far beyond the ordinary.
Experiential and Sport
Jimmy Chin & Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi
Jimmy Chin and Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi are the filmmaking power couple that’s taken the world by storm, transforming sports documentaries into works of art. With their Academy Award-winning Free Solo, they didn’t just capture the breathtaking heights of rock climbing—they brought the adrenaline-fueled world of the sport into the mainstream. In a city like L.A., where storytelling is everything, Jimmy and Elizabeth have redefined what a documentary can be, blending heart-pounding action with deep, cinematic artistry. Their work has elevated the genre, proving that sports films can go beyond the game and into the realm of pure, human triumph.
Mariah Duran
From the streets of Albuquerque to the global stage, Mariah Duran is a force to be reckoned with in skateboarding. Turning pro at just 16 and taking home gold at X Games Minneapolis in 2018, she’s carved out a name for herself as one of the most relentless competitors in the sport. With her Olympic stints representing the U.S. in both Tokyo and Paris, Mariah embodies the L.A. spirit—where every setback is just a setup for the next big victory. No matter how hard she falls, she’s always right back on the board, proving that the grind never stops.
Misty Copeland
Misty Copeland’s journey from late dancer to history-making trailblazer is a testament to the L.A. hustle. In 2015, she shattered ceilings as the first African American female principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre—an achievement that felt as groundbreaking as the city’s own love for reinvention. Starting her dance journey later than most, Misty proved that passion and perseverance are the real keys to success. But she’s more than just a ballet icon. Beyond the stage, she’s an advocate for diversity, a published author, and the co-founder of Life In Motion, using her platform to inspire generations to dream big and defy expectations.
Shawn Ghassemitari
Shawn Ghassemitari, an Iranian-American editor and creative director based in L.A., is breaking down barriers and reshaping how sports and culture collide. In a city like L.A., where every story is a mix of influences, Shawn uses his diverse background to craft content that goes beyond the traditional, merging American sports with global narratives. Rejecting the limits of labels, he’s become a master at curating content that not only tells stories but also elevates brands’ marketing strategies. Whether it’s through visuals that spark conversation or narratives that resonate, Shawn is redefining what it means to create in today’s cultural landscape.
Food and Drink
Sydney Lynn Carlson
Sydney Lynn Carlson is the digital chameleon who’s making waves by blending substance and style with a uniquely L.A. flair. After co-founding a successful phone case brand, she’s now cooking up something new—literally—by infusing her love for culinary creativity into her growing platform. In Sydney’s world, viral recipes, jaw-dropping aesthetics, and exclusive fashion drops collide effortlessly. It’s all served with her signature laid-back, SoCal cool—proving that in L.A., you can be as diverse in your passions as you are in your style.
Tuệ Nguyen
Tuệ Nguyen, aka Twaydabae, has captured the hearts of over a million followers by sharing her Vietnamese heritage through vibrant culinary creations. Her food isn’t just a meal. It’s a nostalgic journey into tradition, blending rich flavors with personal stories. But her influence doesn’t stop at the screen. In the heart of West Hollywood, Tuệ brings her culture to life at DiDi, her beloved restaurant where locals and visitors alike can savor her mouthwatering dishes in person. In a city like L.A., where food is an experience, Tuệ’s kitchen is a place where culture, community, and creativity all come together on the plate.
Chef Vic Ramos
Vic Ramos is a Los Angeles chef who’s all about bringing people together, blending his Puerto Rican and Dominican roots to create unforgettable culinary experiences. With a deep love for traditional Dominican flavors, he’s become a go-to expert in the kitchen, but it’s his community-driven events like Capicua that truly set him apart. Held regularly in L.A., Capicua isn’t just about food—it’s a vibrant celebration of culture, where the community connects, shares, and enjoys the rich traditions of the Caribbean. In a city as diverse as L.A., Vic’s events are a reminder of how food can be the ultimate connector.
Fariyal Abdullahi
Fariyal Abdullahi is a James Beard-nominated chef whose cuisine tells stories with every bite. At Hav & Mar, she fuses her Somali heritage with a contemporary twist, creating dishes that spark conversation and connect cultures. In L.A., where food is as much about identity as it is about flavor, Fariyal’s work goes beyond the plate—it’s a platform for representation. As a passionate advocate for diversity in the culinary world, she celebrates the richness of underrepresented traditions, proving that food can be both a bridge and a celebration of culture.
Ron Finley
Known as L.A.’s “Gangsta Gardener,” Ron Finley has turned the city’s concrete food deserts into lush, thriving green spaces since the pandemic. What started in his own backyard jungle has blossomed into a movement that’s reshaping the way Angelenos think about food and self-sufficiency. Ron isn’t just planting seeds for fresh produce—he’s sowing hope, inspiring locals to take control of their food sources and embrace gardening, no matter their background. In a city like L.A., where urban landscapes meet creative solutions, Ron’s work is a reminder that growing your own food isn’t just about sustainability—it’s about reclaiming power and community in the heart of the concrete jungle.
Pioneers
Parris Goebel
Parris Goebel is the New Zealand-born choreographer who’s redefining dance with her bold, innovative style, making waves all the way from Auckland to L.A. Known for her high-energy moves, Parris has earned global acclaim for her work with megastars like Rihanna, Jennifer Lopez, and Justin Bieber. But it’s her choreography for iconic performances—like the Super Bowl halftime show—that solidified her as a game-changer in the dance world. In a city like L.A., where creativity is the currency, Parris is a powerhouse, constantly pushing the boundaries of what dance can do and how it moves us.
Richard Christiansen
Richard Christiansen, once a creative force behind brands like Hermès and Givenchy, found new inspiration when the pandemic shook up his New York agency. After the disruption, he reinvented himself in true L.A. fashion—by building something entirely unexpected. Now at Flamingo Estate, an urban oasis in the heart of Los Angeles, Richard is cultivating more than just luxurious natural products; he’s creating a sanctuary for sustainable living and exclusive dining experiences. His journey is a testament to how setbacks—especially in a city like L.A.—can spark the kind of growth and transformation that leads to something even more impactful than before.
Oliver Leone
Oliver Leone isn’t just a fashion curator—he’s a storyteller who brings extreme fashion to life by diving deep into vintage archives and reinterpreting them for today’s world. In a city like L.A., where style is everything, Oliver has carved out a unique niche, blending cutting-edge high fashion with rare, iconic pieces from the past. Whether it’s pulling from forgotten gems or spotlighting the boldest new trends, he lives by his Instagram bio: “inspiration for further expression.” Every post, every collection, is a masterclass in pushing the limits of style and creativity, showing L.A. that fashion isn’t just about what you wear—it’s about how you express yourself.
Ava DuVernay
Ava DuVernay, a born and bred Angeleno, is a powerhouse filmmaker reshaping Hollywood. From growing up in Compton to the heights of the film industry, she’s made history as the first African American woman to win Sundance’s Best Director award and the highest-grossing Black woman director ever. With Oscar-nominated films and groundbreaking projects, DuVernay proves that storytelling with purpose can be both powerful and box office gold.
📍@ava
Andrés Rigal
Andrés Rigal, the Co-Founder and Creative Director of DTLA Proud Festival, is reshaping the nightlife scene with his innovative touch and expert event curation. In a city like L.A., where the party never stops, Andrés blends conceptual creativity with his deep passion for the arts to design experiences that go beyond the ordinary. His festivals are more than just events—they’re unforgettable celebrations that reflect the heart of downtown L.A., leaving everyone who attends eagerly anticipating the next one. Whether it’s through bold performances or immersive spaces, Andrés is proving that nightlife is an art form in itself.
Emma Chamberlain
Emma Chamberlain, the L.A.-based social media maven, first captured the internet’s attention as a teenage vlogger on YouTube, quickly becoming a sensation. Since then, she’s leveled up in true L.A. style—covering the Met Gala, launching her own podcast, and even building a thriving coffee brand. What sets Emma apart is her ability to stay authentic while constantly reinventing herself. Whether she’s sharing her unique take on high fashion or making us laugh with her offbeat humor, millions of followers can’t help but stay hooked, eager to see what this L.A. trendsetter will do next.
Brian Woo
Brian Woo, known as Dr. Woo to his many fans, is the tattoo artist who’s reshaping the ink game. He’s known for his signature single-needle technique that has made him the go-to for some of the world’s most elite clientele. Based in L.A., where artistry knows no boundaries, Dr. Woo embraces his Asian-American heritage to create designs that are as intricate as they are breathtaking. In a city that thrives on individuality, he’s carved out a space for tattoos to transcend trends and become genuine works of art. Whether in his private studio or in the limelight of celebrity culture, Dr. Woo’s tattoos aren’t just ink—they’re expressions of identity and craftsmanship that continue to set the standard.
📍@_dr_woo_
Evan Ross Katz
Evan Ross Katz started his career writing about celebrities for top outlets like The Cut and Paper Mag, but in classic L.A. style, he didn’t just report on pop culture—he became a part of it. With his sharp wit and keen insights, Evan quickly turned into a celebrity in his own right. His hit podcast Shut Up Evan and widely read Substack newsletter of the same name have become staples for anyone who loves a mix of hilarious celebrity commentary and the kind of interviews that leave you laughing out loud. In a city where everyone’s looking for their next big break, Evan’s blend of humor and pop culture savvy has made him a true standout.
Michael Heizer
Michael Heizer isn’t just an artist—he’s a landscape shaper, transforming vast swathes of earth into monumental works that challenge the very idea of what art can be. His creations, like City in the Nevada desert, go beyond the confines of traditional galleries and into the natural world, calling to mind the iconic Salvation Mountain in California’s desert but on a far grander scale. Heizer’s work evokes a sense of timelessness, reminding us of the ancient civilizations whose colossal sculptures once ruled the land, only to be overtaken by the forces of nature. In L.A., a city where the boundary between nature and art is often blurred, Heizer’s pieces feel like an invitation to slow down and reconsider our relationship with the world around us—art that’s not just seen but experienced.
Chloe & Chenelle Delgadillo
Chloe and Chenelle Delgadillo, the styling duo turning heads in L.A., are the siblings who know how to transform celebrities from famous to truly iconic. With an eye for detail that catches both the subtle and the spectacular, they don’t just style—they tell stories through fashion. In a city where image is everything, their narrative-driven approach to styling pushes boundaries and sparks creativity. Whether they’re dressing A-listers for the red carpet or crafting an unforgettable look for a photoshoot, Chloe and Chenelle’s work transcends fashion, becoming a bold form of artistic expression that’s as much about storytelling as it is about style.
Daniel Buezo
Born and raised in L.A., Daniel Buezo is more than the Co-Founder and CEO of Kids of Immigrants—he’s the heartbeat behind one of the city’s most iconic streetwear movements. Blending bold cultural expression with a deep sense of community, Daniel’s vision has turned his brand into a platform for creative collaboration, partnering with some of the most influential names in the game. But for Daniel, it’s never just been about fashion. Kids of Immigrants is a celebration of culture, a space where L.A. locals gather to connect, dance, and honor their roots through free events that feel like a family reunion on the streets of the city.
Nadia Lee Cohen
In the heart of L.A., where reality blurs into fantasy, Nadia Lee Cohen crafts surreal dreamscapes that feel like they’ve been plucked from a lost Hollywood fever dream. With kitschy wigs, nostalgic hues, and characters that teeter between glamorous and unsettling, her work pulls you into an alternate universe—one you can’t look away from. Whether on magazine covers, in music videos, or lighting up social feeds, her unmistakable style effortlessly fuses high art with pop culture, proving that in Nadia’s world, the ordinary is anything but.
Read more here on the full list of SMN100 across the country! It features top innovators from L.A. and all over the U.S. and redefines what it means to make our cities dynamic, fun places to live and explore!