Finding mentors/influential people

[Connor Ware]

Hi,

I am 17 starting to pursue a career in real estate investing. I'm learning more and more using this website and other resources  e.g. books. I wanted to take it to the next step to find some people who have been very successful in this business. I have planned to go to a real estate meeting in a city near me but i was wondering if other people could give me their perspective on how to try and find/reach out to people who have been influential in this area. I'm not asking requesting for a mentor but just on peoples thoughts and guidance on the right places to be looking.

Thanks 

Connor Ware