When you think about it, there’s no reason why women can’t be just as successful as men in terms of career and life goals. Women have made incredible contributions to our world in science, art, politics, and more.

However, as they strive to take their rightful place on the world stage and make their mark, women face obstacles that men don’t have to deal with. In many cases, their contributions are only acknowledged after their death or published anonymously with male authors listed first.

While women still face many challenges preventing them from reaching their full potential, some incredible women make tremendous strides for change and difference daily. Read on to learn more about some of the most influential women leading the way toward an even brighter future.

Angela Merkel

As Chancellor of Germany from 2005 to 2021, Angela Merkel was known for her fiscal conservatism and support for European integration.

She led Europe’s open-door policy toward refugees fleeing conflict zones such as Syria. The move earned her criticism at home and abroad, but some believe that it could make history if it helps resolve Europe’s refugee crisis.

These moves put her at the summit of global politics and have made her one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people.

Malala Yousafzai

Malala Yousafzai was born on July 12, 1997, in Mingora, Pakistan. She advocates for education in her home country. Despite assassination attempts, she was awarded both the Sakharov Prize and the Nobel Peace Prize at 17 for fighting for girls’ education.

Receiving such accolades at such a young age has only strengthened her resolve to continue advocating for women’s rights and education throughout Asia. Even more impressive is that despite receiving death threats from terrorists, she continues to stand up for what she believes in.

In addition to all these accomplishments, Yousafzai wrote a memoir called I Am Malala: The Story of the Girl Who Stood Up for Education and was Shot by the Taliban. 

This book was released in 2013 and quickly became a New York Times bestseller. Her story continues to inspire people around the world today.

Hillary Clinton

Hillary Clinton served as Secretary of State from 2009 to 2013. Before becoming a US senator, she was the first lady during Bill Clinton’s eight years in office and played an integral role in his administration.

While her husband focused on policies that helped bring prosperity to millions of Americans, she worked on women’s issues, such as healthcare reform and children’s welfare. In 2016, she became the first female candidate nominated for president by a major party, an incredible feat in itself.

She would go on to win the national tally votes, only to lose the election due to Electoral College votes. These accomplishments only go to show how far we have come as a society regarding gender equality and women’s leadership.

Michelle Obama

The former first lady of the United States has made headlines for her advocacy for healthy eating and exercise and her support of education. She is also a powerful voice supporting women’s rights and equality.

Michelle Obama’s ‘Let’s Move’ campaign has worked hard over the years to make changes that will help America live up to its potential. In addition to working with children, she worked with military families, veterans’ affairs and poverty issues.

She launched ‘Joining Forces’, which helps service members to transition back into civilian life by connecting them with community support services. Being the first African American first lady had a very significant impact across all sectors of society, and she used her platform to promote change.

Reasons why it’s important to have more women in leadership

Women are seriously underrepresented in leadership roles in the world of business. While this isn’t exactly fair, it may prove to be a better business decision if more organizations take measures to put more women in leadership roles. Here’s why it’s crucial to have more women in leadership.

Women leaders can provide better mentorship

Mentorship is critical to a successful career because it offers guidance on navigating challenges and provides access to networks that can help you advance your career.

Mentors can also help you build your confidence and teach you how to handle difficult situations professionally, which will be especially helpful as you move up in your career.

For instance, aspiring nurses who enroll in Texas Woman’s University online nursing programs have access to mentors from faculty members, practicing nurses, and even other students.

This one-on-one support has improved students’ grades, retention rates and overall academic experience. The university offers these courses 100% online, so you don’t need to relocate or leave your current job.

New outlooks and perspectives

One of the most important reasons for bringing more women into leadership is that it would help change how companies operate and look at potential new markets.

Businesses with diverse perspectives among their leaders are much better able to adapt and react to shifts in their marketplace than those that don’t.

You’re likely to generate tremendous growth and success when you bring in a wide range of experiences, ideas and approaches.

Gender diversity drives innovation and creativity

Gender-diverse groups might lead to more innovation and creativity. These teams are faster and can come up with more ideas than homogeneous groups.

This is because diverse groups tend to be more inclusive, generating a broader range of perspectives, ultimately leading to better solutions. In other words, diversity drives greater engagement, and leaders need to get buy-in from their team members on big decisions.

Final thoughts

Women are greatly underrepresented at all levels of leadership, and this lack of diversity significantly impacts business culture and profitability. While it may be uncomfortable to confront gender inequality in your workplace, addressing it is essential if you want your company to thrive.

Fortunately, there are many ways that leaders can increase female participation and advance women within an organization. Implementing even just a few of these strategies will help ensure your company’s success for years.