As we step into May and celebrate Workers’ Month, at KELLA, we take this time to recognise the remarkable women who have redefined what it means to lead, innovate, and make an impact in the workplace and beyond. This article is dedicated to those women whose achievements continue to shape industries, transform societies, and inspire generations to come.
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.“ – Abraham Lincoln
Throughout history, women have redefined leadership, turned adversity into opportunity, and demonstrated resilience beyond measure. From politics to technology, business to policy, these trailblazers have made lasting marks that inspire us all.
Women Leading in Politics: Breaking Barriers and Shaping Nations
Image credit : Bloomberg
Politics has long been one of the most male-dominated spaces globally. As of 2025, only 28 countries have had a woman serve as head of state or government, which accounts for just 15% of UN member states. Yet, women have consistently defied expectations, breaking barriers and rising to the highest echelons of power. Their leadership continues to shape nations, challenge norms, and inspire future generations to believe that political leadership is not bound by gender.
Some of the most influential women leading in politics today include:
- Margaret Thatcher: The first woman to hold the office of Prime Minister in the United Kingdom, Thatcher’s legacy as a pioneering female leader has been profound. Her leadership was transformative for the UK, pushing for economic reform, individualism, and a strong national defense, despite her polarising views.
- Kamala Harris: The first female, first Black, and first South Asian Vice President of the United States, Harris made history with her election in 2021. Her role continues to break down barriers and has become a symbol of the changing political landscape in the U.S.
- Giorgia Meloni: In 2022, Meloni became Italy’s first female Prime Minister, leading the country through significant reforms and national challenges. Her leadership marks a historic step for women in politics across Europe.
- Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah: As Namibia’s first female president, Nandi-Ndaitwah continues to pave the way for female leadership in Africa. Her focus on social justice, gender equality, and economic development represents the hope of a more inclusive future for Africa.
These leaders are shaping political landscapes, demonstrating that women have a vital role in defining the future of governance.
Women in Tech: Shaping the Digital Future
The digital world has been significantly shaped by women who have continually pushed boundaries in tech. Women now make up 25% of the global tech workforce (McKinsey). However, the gender gap in tech remains a challenge. Yet, progress is being made:
- Sheryl Sandberg, as the former COO of Facebook, championed digital transformation and empowered millions of women in tech.
- Reshma Saujani, through her work with Girls Who Code, has closed the gender gap in tech, with over 300,000 girls joining her initiative in the U.S. alone.
- Ada Lovelace, the world’s first computer programmer, is now recognised as the foundation for the female presence in tech.
Although women remain underrepresented, organisations and initiatives continue to push for greater inclusivity. Women like these, along with countless others, are at the forefront of this change, striving to inspire and lead the next generation of women in technology, science, and engineering.
Women in Business and Policy: Leading with Purpose
Image credit : Forbes
Women have been transformative forces in business and policy, continually reshaping industries and economies. Women now control 39% of the global wealth and are becoming an increasingly powerful force in the business world (Boston Consulting)
Group). Yet, there’s still room for progress. Women remain underrepresented in corporate leadership positions globally, but their impact continues to grow.
- Melinda Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, has led initiatives that have empowered over 300 million women globally through efforts focused on economic empowerment, health, and education.
- Christine Lagarde, the first woman to serve as the President of the European Central Bank, has reshaped global financial policies, advocating for fiscal reforms that promote gender equality.
- Indra Nooyi, the former CEO of PepsiCo, became one of the first women of colour to lead a global corporation, further emphasising the growing role of women in top-tier business leadership.
Their efforts are pushing for more inclusive economies and shaping the global business landscape, inspiring the next generation of women to take up leadership roles.
Malala Yousafzai: Proving You’re Never Too Young to Make an Impact
Image credit :Wikipedia
Malala Yousafzai, an advocate for girls’ education and the youngest-ever Nobel Prize laureate, has shown the world that age is no barrier to creating lasting change. At just 15, Malala became an international symbol for education and women’s rights after surviving an assassination attempt by the Taliban. Since then, her work has been nothing short of revolutionary. Her global advocacy for girls’ education continues to inspire countless young women around the world to speak out, take action, and make their voices heard. Malala’s courage and determination show us that no matter how young, everyone has the power to make a profound impact on society.
Kirsty Coventry: Changing the Game in Sports and Leadership
When we think of women breaking barriers in sports, Kirsty Coventry stands out as a symbol of excellence and resilience. As Zimbabwe’s Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts, and Recreation, Kirsty has not only excelled as the most decorated African Olympian but has also used her platform to advocate for the empowerment of women in sports. Her achievements in the pool are legendary, but her leadership beyond sports is equally inspiring. Kirsty’s efforts to mentor and inspire young African women to pursue careers in sports, politics, and leadership roles are transformative, helping to pave the way for future generations to thrive in traditionally male-dominated spaces.
Final Thoughts: Reflecting on Women as Change Makers
As we reflect on the women who have shaped industries and communities, it’s clear that women have not only broken barriers but have been key players in transforming the global landscape. Figures like Kamala Harris, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, and Giorgia Meloni are powerful reminders that women are no longer just present—they are driving change, shaping policies, and leading nations. These leaders are proof that we are not merely taking a seat at the table; we are contributing, influencing, and building the future.
The women we’ve highlighted here have shown us that leadership isn’t defined by gender but by vision, courage, and the relentless pursuit of progress. They are trailblazers who have reshaped their fields and inspired future generations to do the same. Their contributions are not only celebrated but continue to encourage women to rise and make an impact, no matter the industry or the obstacles they face.
The journey towards gender equality is far from complete, but as we look ahead, we can draw strength from these women’s stories. They remind us that, together, we can continue to create a world where every woman has the opportunity to lead, innovate, and inspire change.