In honor of International Women’s Day, we celebrate the women from around the world who are making a difference through their leadership, innovation and unwavering commitment to positive change. From politics to business, science to sports, these women are reshaping industries and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. Their stories highlight the power of determination and vision, serving as both a reflection of progress and a call to action for a better future.
Claudia Sheinbaum: Mexico
Photo: JEMAL COUNTESS/GETTY IMAGES FOR GLOBAL CITIZEN
Claudia Sheinbaum made history this last year when she became Mexico’s first female president, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s political landscape. Before her presidency, Sheinbaum had a long career in public service, including roles as a scientist, researcher, and leader in environmental and urban policy. She was known for her focus on sustainability and progress during her tenure as the Mayor of Mexico City. As president, her leadership is seen as an important moment for Mexico, reflecting the growing global trend of women ascending to the highest levels of political office. Sheinbaum’s journey has captured attention both in Mexico and internationally, highlighting her influence in shaping the future of the country’s governance.
Ada Osakwe: Nigeria
Photo: Jemal Countess/Getty Images for Global Citizen
Ada Osakwe is a trailblazing entrepreneur and investor transforming Africa’s agribusiness landscape through her firm, Agrolay Ventures. Based in Nigeria, Osakwe has dedicated her career to empowering small and medium-sized agricultural enterprises, particularly those led by women. Her investments focus on fostering innovation, improving food security and creating sustainable opportunities across the continent. A passionate advocate for the potential of Africa’s agricultural sector, she has also worked as a senior advisor to the Nigerian Minister of Agriculture, where she spearheaded initiatives to attract private-sector investment in agriculture. Osakwe’s visionary leadership continues to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs committed to driving economic growth and addressing critical challenges in food production and sustainability.
Deyna Castellanos: Venezuela
Photo: Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Deyna Castellanos’ journey in soccer is a testament to her talent, determination and commitment to making a difference. A standout for the Venezuelan national team and international clubs like Atlético Madrid and Orlando Pride, Castellanos has earned accolades such as a spot on the FIFA Best Women’s Player shortlist. Despite limited resources for female athletes in Venezuela, she overcame obstacles through passion and hard work, inspiring countless young athletes. In 2025, she launched the Queen Deyna Education & Sports Program, providing scholarships and holistic support to talented student-athletes pursuing academics and sports. The program focuses and emphasizes athletic and academic excellence, offering mentorship, training and mental health support. By breaking financial barriers and nurturing talent, Castellanos is creating opportunities for the next generation to thrive both on and off the field.
Leanne Pittsford: USA
Photo: by Bonnie Biess/Getty Images for Lesbians Who Tech & Allies
Leanne Pittsford is a visionary entrepreneur who has revolutionized the tech industry through her innovative initiatives and commitment to creating opportunities for those wanting to enter the tech industry. She has built a global professional network with over 70,000 members spanning more than 100 countries. Through programs like the Edie Windsor Coding Scholarship Fund, the Tech Jobs Tour and Squad Jobs, Pittsford has driven change by connecting skilled individuals with career opportunities, mentoring resources and leadership development programs. A self-taught coder, Pittsford’s journey from building online fundraising tools to raising millions for advocacy campaigns highlights her dedication to leveraging technology as a force for positive change. Her initiatives continue to shape a more accessible and collaborative future for the tech industry.
Shi Ming: China
Photo: Mike Roach/Zuffa LLC
Shi Ming, a rising star in mixed martial arts (MMA) and a skilled traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioner, has made waves with her dual careers. Hailing from Heilongjiang, China, Ming began her martial arts journey in college, excelling in Sanda before transitioning to MMA in 2017 under the guidance of U.S. wrestling coach Bagher Amanolahi. Since 2020, she has competed in 12 MMA matches, including three UFC fights in 2024. Despite her demanding schedule, Ming seamlessly balances her roles as a TCM doctor and athlete, using her medical expertise in acupuncture and massage to aid recovery for herself and her teammates. Inspired by UFC champion Zhang Weili, Ming aspires to embody professionalism, humility and cultural pride, envisioning a future where she represents the strength of Chinese women in sports while pursuing a championship belt.
Falguni Nayar: India
Photo: Ashish Vaishnav/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
Falguni Nayar is a pioneering entrepreneur who has transformed India’s beauty and wellness industry through her e-commerce platform, Nykaa. Founded in 2012, Nykaa quickly became a household name, offering a vast array of beauty products and empowering women to make informed choices about their care. Nayar, a former investment banker, turned her keen business acumen into a thriving venture that not only catered to India’s growing online shopping trend but also created a strong offline presence through Nykaa stores across the country. Her innovative approach and relentless drive have propelled Nykaa into a multi-billion-dollar company, making Nayar one of India’s most influential business leaders. In 2024, her continued leadership and success underscore her impact on shaping the future of e-commerce and women’s entrepreneurship in India.
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