For the past 13 years, Forbes has celebrated the achievements of young entrepreneurs and changemakers through its prestigious ’30 Under 30′ list, highlighting individuals making a positive impact on the world. While many have gone on to become cultural icons and industry leaders, a few have veered into infamy.
In an unprecedented move, Forbes has introduced its ‘Hall of Shame’ list, showcasing 10 individuals considered the “most dubious” ever included in the ’30 Under 30′ roster. Here are the 10 out of 10,000 alumni that Forbes wishes to reconsider:
Sam Bankman-Fried:
Once hailed as the golden child of crypto, Bankman-Fried now faces notoriety with a recent conviction on seven counts of fraud and conspiracy linked to his cryptocurrency exchange, FTX, potentially leading to a 10-year prison sentence.
Caroline Ellison:
Another casualty associated with FTX, Ellison has pleaded guilty to wire fraud and conspiracy for diverting billions from FTX customers to cover losses at Alameda Research, its sister concern.
Charlie Javice:
Founder and former CEO of Frank, Javice, who promised to assist college students in obtaining financial aid, finds herself indicted for fraud, accused of misrepresenting her company’s scale.
Nate Paul:
Founder of World Class Capital Group, Paul’s real estate empire faced a downfall as he was charged with eight counts of lying to lenders and later indicted on four additional counts of fraud and conspiracy.
Martin Shkreli:
Known as the “pharma bro,” Shkreli gained infamy after acquiring the manufacturing license for Daraprim and drastically raising its price. His actions made him the “most hated man in America.”
Cody Wilson:
Founder of Defense Distributed, Wilson is now a registered sex offender following his arrest for paying $500 to engage in illegal activities with a 16-year-old girl he met online.
James O’Keefe:
Chairman and CEO of Project Veritas, O’Keefe faces accusations of misusing donor funds for personal expenses, including a private plane flight.
Phadria Prendergast:
Disgraced editor-in-chief of ‘Women of the City Magazine,’ Prendergast allegedly accepted cash for coverage and reportedly absconded with approximately $195,000 from 11 former customers.
Steph Korey:
Co-founder and CEO of luggage brand Away, Korey is marred with allegations of bullying her co-workers and fostering a toxic work environment.
Lucas Duplan:
Despite raising $30 million for his mobile payments start-up Clinkle in 2014, Duplan failed to deliver a viable product, marking a significant disappointment in the entrepreneurial world.
