Each year, TIME magazine releases a list of the world’s most influential people. This list has included well-known figures such as Oprah, Barack Obama, Nelson Mandela, and the Dalai Lama. However, influence is not limited to political power, wealth, or popularity. In fact, teenagers have the ability to be incredibly influential, thanks to their fearlessness and access to social media. In 2014, TIME recognized several influential teenagers who taught us valuable lessons:

Firstly, Sasha and Malia Obama remind us to be true to our own passions. Despite the expectations placed on them as the daughters of the US President, they have forged their own paths and have pursued their own interests. By being true to themselves, they have become influential figures.

Secondly, Flynn McGarry teaches us to start with what we have. At just 12 years old, Flynn started his own supper club in his family’s bedroom, and it has since grown into a successful pop-up restaurant. By not waiting for ideal circumstances, Flynn shows us that we can achieve our dreams with the resources available to us.

Next, Erik Finman emphasizes the importance of staying curious and being an eager learner. He founded Botangle.com, an online community that connects learners with experts for a fee. Despite his young age, Erik funded the startup project by investing in Bitcoin. This shows that being a lifelong learner can lead to success in unexpected ways.

Salma Kakar, a teenage girl from Afghanistan, uses her passion for cycling to push the boundaries of the world she finds herself in. Despite the conservative traditions of her country, Salma is breaking barriers and showing the world how far Afghan women have come. She refuses to be limited by her circumstances and is using her bike as a vehicle for social change.

The most well-known teenager on TIME’s list, Malala Yousafzai, is a powerful example of resilience. Despite being shot by Taliban gunmen for her advocacy for girls’ education, Malala did not let this defeat her. Instead, she started the Malala Fund and continued to fight for her cause. Her message is clear: a single defeat is not a final defeat.

Rachel Fox, a teenage actress and day trader, challenges stereotypes and shows us that we can excel in unexpected areas. By starting her blog, Fox on Stocks, she aims to demystify finance for teenagers and track the influence of pop culture on stock trading.

Rico Rodriguez, known for his role on Modern Family, demonstrates the power of letting one’s personality shine. Despite not fitting the typical Hollywood heartthrob mold, Rico’s comedic genius and unique personality have made him successful. He reminds us to embrace our own uniqueness and not to conform to stereotypes.

Lorde, the Grammy-winning singer, promotes body positivity and self-acceptance. She has used her influence to remind her fans that flaws are okay and that true beauty is found in imperfections.

Joshua Wong, an 18-year-old activist, shows us the importance of speaking up. He has led pro-democracy movements in Hong Kong, fighting for the rights of the people to elect their leaders. He serves as a reminder that our voice and vote count, and we should never take them for granted.

Lastly, Jazz Jennings, a transgender advocate, teaches us to see the rainbow in the world. Despite being born with a male body, Jazz identifies as a girl and has become a powerful advocate for transgender teens. She shows us that there is more to the world than black and white, and that acceptance and understanding are essential.

In conclusion, these influential teenagers teach us valuable lessons about being true to ourselves, starting with what we have, staying curious, pushing boundaries, persevering in the face of adversity, challenging stereotypes, embracing our uniqueness, promoting self-acceptance, speaking up, and seeing the beauty in diversity. Their impact goes beyond their age and serves as a reminder that influence is achievable at any age.