From groundbreaking activists to visionary leaders, these women have reshaped industries, broken barriers, and inspired millions. They are fighting for workers’ rights, enchanting readers with magical storytelling, transforming media, or revolutionising tech. Their impact is undeniable. The stories of four extraordinary women who prove that determination, creativity, and bold leadership can change the world.
Ai-Jen Poo: Director of NDWA
An activist for some of the most vulnerable working people in the US, Ai-Jen Poo’s non-profit National Domestic Workers Alliance has helped to ensure there are dignity and fairness for workers who clean and provide care services across the United States, the majority of which are women of colour and immigrants.
Despite only having been working towards her goals for 12 years, Poo has helped pass the Domestic Worker Bill of Rights in 9 states and has helped a workforce of around 2.5 million to access fairer work.
JK Rowling: Author of the Harry Potter series
When JK Rowling wrote the Harry Potter series in cafes across Edinburgh during the 90s, she could not have believed it would have had such an impact on adults and children alike, across the world.
The Harry Potter books drew more children to reading, particularly boys, with teachers across the UK noticing this change in the classroom at the time. The allegories and messages throughout the book have made it into a modern fable that will stand the test of time.
Oprah Winfrey: activist, actress & chat show host
One of the most charismatic, funny and likable people to walk the earth, Oprah has shaped America is several ways over the past 20 years. She was credited with bringing in more than a million votes to Barack Obama’s presidential campaign.
Oprah was also the first African-American female billionaire, an incredible achievement considering the origins of poverty and hardship that shaped her childhood. Oprah is a true example of what you can achieve when you put your mind to it and has said:
“My thing is: do it. Do you want to see the changes? Then get out there and make them yourself.”
Ginni Rometty: CEO, IBM
Heading up one of the world’s biggest companies in the world, Rometty is the first woman to serve as President of IBM. Rometty was responsible for purchasing Red Hat for $34 billion, placing the company in a position to compete with Amazon and Microsoft in cloud computing.
Ginni places a huge focus on keeping women in the workforce, having brought in extended parental leave and a breastmilk delivery program.
Last But Not Least
These women remind us that progress is built on courage, resilience, and an unwavering belief in change. Whether through policy, literature, media, or innovation, they’ve shown that one person’s vision can uplift entire communities. Sometimes their actions can even redefine an era. So, here’s to the women who lead, create and inspire.
Happy International Women’s Day everyone!
