Elon Musk
Ok, ok, so I know the guy isn't perfect. In fact, I know this because of this biography, written by Ashlee Vance. But I like how Musk used capitalism to make energy alternatives sexy. Plus I very much identify with this quote from his TED Talk: "I’m not trying to be anyone’s saviour. I’m just trying to think about the future and not be sad."
Mark Stevenson
"An Optimist's Tour of the Future" (also available on Audible) and "We Do Things Differently" were exactly the books I needed to remind me that all hope for humanity is not lost.
This isn't Chicken Soup for the Soul. This is systematic change which will make the world a better place.
The best part is - many of these systems, techniques and inventions are already being adopted by companies, leaders and governments. Treat yourself to some hope!