Simon Gebrelul bridges the worlds of music and sports management, overseeing some of the most influential names in both fields. As founder & CEO of Isla Management, Gebrelul, 34, works with some of the world’s biggest music producers – including Boi-1da and OZ, both named by Billboard as two of the top producers of the 21st century, shaping the sound of modern music in their work with Drake, Travis Scott and more — plus major artists like R&B star Giveon. He also manages Canadian basketball star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is the reigning MVP of the NBA. Gebrelul started in sports, where he learned the discipline and structure that now shape his approach to artist development and brand strategy for both musicians and athletes — all of which represent a knack for pushing culture in general and working with visionaries who create their own lanes.

Gebrelul encourages young creatives to bet on themselves and take risks, not letting fear get in the way of experimentation. Through Isla, he supports producers and artists who are helping define Canada’s next chapter in global music. “I’m motivated by how much talent continues to come out of Canada,” he says. “The producers and artists I work with are helping shape what the next era of music looks like here.”