Volodymyr Zelensky

Volodymyr Zelensky got his start as a comedic actor, running for president of Ukraine as a populist candidate in 2019. He seemed an unlikely hero, yet he quickly revealed his resolve as Russian forces invaded Ukraine in 2022. He remained in Ukraine's capital, delivering rousing speeches to Ukraine's people via video even as Russia's troops posed an enormous threat to his safety. Zelensky has become a symbol of great bravery, both in Ukraine and around the world.