On this International Women's Day, friends, I'm reflecting on the women who have influenced the minds and cultures globally. This article springs from my personal journey and experiences. While I admit my expertise in these fields is limited, I've strived to cover diverse areas such as politics, leadership, technology, humanitarianism, culture, and the essence of life itself. As you delve into this list, I invite you to ponder how these figures have not only shaped the global narrative but also touched your personal worldview. The order below is arbitrary, reflecting no hierarchy of importance.
- Angela Merkel — As Chancellor of Germany, Angela Merkel's leadership during critical times has been a cornerstone of European stability and unity. In my view, her pragmatic approach to crisis management, commitment to fiscal prudence, and forward-looking environmental policies have shaped not just Germany's but also the European Union's trajectory.
- Malala Yousafzai — I remember when I first heard the news of the Taliban shooting her - it was a sad day. She not only survived the assassination but also the ignorance of humankind, becoming a global advocate for girls' education. Her courage and dedication to education rights led her to become the youngest-ever Nobel Prize laureate. Her story, resilience, and activism remind us of the power of standing up for one's beliefs and the impact of advocating for education and equality. She for sure has changed the way millions and millions of girls think and believe.
- Gitanjali Rao— My younger daughter, Supriyeneeti, who admires her greatly, introduced me to her story last year. A young innovator and scientist, Gitanjali Rao, has emerged as a leading figure in STEM, using her brilliance to tackle issues from contaminated drinking water to opioid addiction and cyberbullying. Named TIME’s first-ever ‘Kid of the Year’ in 2020, Rao represents a new generation of thinkers committed to solving global challenges through technology and compassion. Her work and ethos remind me that age is but a number in the quest for impactful innovation.
- Jacinda Ardern — Jacinda Ardern, the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, is celebrated for her empathetic leadership style and effective crisis management. From her decisive response to the COVID-19 pandemic to her compassionate handling of the Christchurch mosque shootings, Ardern’s tenure exemplified how kindness and strong leadership can coexist and thrive. She indeed is an inspiration for me; her focus on mental health, child welfare, and climate action has left an indelible mark on New Zealand and the world, showcasing the profound impact of visionary female leadership.
- Kim Kardashian — Kim Kardashian has become one of the most recognizable figures in entertainment and social media, parlaying her reality TV fame into a wide-ranging empire that includes beauty and fashion brands, mobile apps, and social activism. In the coming years, it won't be surprising if we start seeing university courses and research coming out on her savvy use of social media, building and maintaining her brand. Kardashian's unique blend of celebrity and activism showcases the potential for public figures to impact social and political issues. She clearly has influenced the minds of the West and East equally.
- Michelle Bachelet—A two-time President of Chile and the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet has dedicated her career to fighting for social justice, gender equality, and human rights. Her resilience in the face of personal and political challenges, coupled with her commitment to reform and advocacy, underscores the critical role of female leaders in fostering global change and championing the rights of the marginalized.
- Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie — A powerful figure in contemporary literature and thought, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has used her voice to explore and challenge the narratives surrounding identity, feminism, and race. Growing up in a culture that revered the power of storytelling, I find Adichie's novels, essays, and speeches particularly resonant. She invites us to tackle uncomfortable truths and reconsider the frameworks shaping our understanding of the world. Her advocacy for a more inclusive and nuanced form of feminism has made her a key figure in the global dialogue on gender and equality.
- Sanna Marin— As the Prime Minister of Finland, Sanna Marin represents a new wave of young, progressive leaders redefining governance in the 21st century. Under her leadership, Finland has championed gender equality, environmental sustainability, and technological innovation, becoming a model for inclusive and forward-thinking policy worldwide. Marin's approach to leadership, marked by empathy, transparency, and effectiveness, illustrates the transformative potential of female leadership in politics. See no country is without is perfect; transformative change is achievable through a diverse blend of viewpoints and camaraderie, a quality Marin embodies in her leadership style.
As we celebrate these remarkable women, their legacies offer a mosaic of courage, innovation, and leadership that continue to inspire not just me but countless others around the globe. Their stories underscore the limitless potential of women to shape our century and beyond—a reminder of the pivotal role female leaders play in driving societal progress and change.
With this, let us continue this conversation, celebrating the many women who, in their unique ways, are shaping our present and paving the way for our future.
My friends, just look around; these visionaries, brimming with courage, leadership, strategy, execution, love, compassion, and soulful power, are everywhere. Who are the women that inspire you? #InternationalWomensDay #Leadership #Innovation
