Global Women Leaders of the Year - 2024

Women leaders around the world in 2024 continued to surge to positions of power and influence, marking significant strides in diverse sectors such as politics, business, social advocacy, and technology. Their leadership has been instrumental in shaping global narratives, particularly in dealing with urgent issues such as climate change, economic inequality, healthcare, and human rights. As the world struggles through complex challenges, women have found themselves at the forefront of that struggle, balancing pragmatic decision-making with a deep commitment to social justice and inclusivity.

Politically, women leaders dominated the arena by showing strength and visionary skills in handling both domestic affairs and international relations. Many of the women who headed countries and regions in 2024 presented a leadership style characterized by empathy, collaboration, and a forward-thinking approach to policy. They focused on issues like climate action, gender equality, education, and poverty alleviation, working towards a more sustainable and equitable future. Their leadership was particularly impactful in addressing the global economic recovery, where they helped design inclusive policies to mitigate the long-term effects of the pandemic.

Women also played a crucial role in the business world, where they were in key leadership positions within the top corporations and innovative startups. They dominated sectors that were previously male-dominated, such as finance, technology, and energy. As CEOs, executives, and entrepreneurs, women continued to drive innovation and reshape business practices with an emphasis on diversity, sustainability, and social responsibility. They increasingly championed the importance of ethical leadership, recognizing that there is a need for firms to contribute positively to the society while pursuing profitability.

Women continued to lead transformative movements globally, from climate activism to human rights advocacy. Their work at the grassroots level was vital in holding governments accountable and pushing for change in areas like racial justice, gender-based violence, and the protection of marginalized communities. Through their tireless efforts, women activists and leaders of NGOs and social organizations were centered in making sure the voice of the unheard was louder, especially in conflict zones and developing nations.

The past year, therefore, demonstrated that women's leadership is not only about individual achievements but about collective progress and social transformation. As we move forward, the example set by women in leadership roles in 2024 offers hope and inspiration for a more inclusive, fair, and progressive global community.

In this issue, The Global Women Leader magazine brings a spotlights ‘Global Women Leaders of the Year – 2024’, featuring leaders who are domineers of change in the corporate realm of the country. This list of ten leading and inspiring women is crafted by a team of CEOs, VCs, and the editorial board, delivering inspiring stories of their journey and the contributions & roles played by them in the creation and empowerment of an economically powerful nation.