G-Woman Power List: Top 50 Women to Watch in 2025
A Global Celebration of Gutsy, Gifted, Genius, and Game-Changing Women
In 2025, women aren’t just adapting—they’re leading the way. The G-Woman Power List: Top 50 Women to Watch in 2025 celebrates the trailblazers, disruptors, and visionaries who are shaping the future of industries, breaking barriers, and redefining what’s possible.
From politics and business to sports, science, art, technology, and activism, these women embody courage, intelligence, and impact. They are gutsy in their actions, gifted in their fields, genius in their strategies, and game-changing in their influence.
This list highlights the diversity of thought, talent, and leadership these women bring to the world. Each profile includes a powerful quote from them, reinforcing the messages of strength, resilience, and progress.
Why This List Matters
The G-Woman Power List is more than just recognition—it’s a statement of true feminine power. These 50 women are not waiting for permission to lead, innovate, or create change—they are taking charge and making it happen.
Their achievements remind us that:
- Women belong in every room where decisions are made.
- Strength comes in many forms—intellectual, creative, and physical.
- The future is female-led, diverse, and limitless.
Our list is an invitation to celebrate, support, and be inspired by these incredible women.
1. Greta Thunberg – The Climate Crusader
Role: Environmental Activist
Greta Thunberg sparked a global youth climate movement, pressuring world leaders to act on climate change with her unwavering advocacy and scientific rigor.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her bold activism and fearless accountability have transformed climate discourse.
“You are never too small to make a difference.”
2. Malala Yousafzai – The Education Warrior
Role: Activist, Nobel Laureate
Malala Yousafzai survived an assassination attempt and went on to become a global advocate for girls’ education, co-founding the Malala Fund to ensure every girl has access to school.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her resilience and commitment to gender equality in education inspire millions.
“One child, one teacher, one book, and one pen can change the world.”
3. Cynthia Erivo – The Multidimensional Storyteller
Role: Actress, Singer, Producer
Cynthia Erivo’s performances—whether on Broadway, in film, or music—are powerful, emotional, and transformative, making her a force in the performing arts.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her talent and commitment to diverse storytelling challenge Hollywood norms.
“Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire.”
4. Serena Williams – The Champion of Champions
Role: Tennis Legend, Entrepreneur
With 23 Grand Slam titles, Serena Williams is a sports icon who has also used her platform to advocate for racial equality, maternal health, and business investment.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her tenacity, trailblazing achievements, and activism redefine greatness.
“The success of every woman should be the inspiration to another.”
5. Indra Nooyi – The Corporate Visionary
Role: Former CEO, PepsiCo
Indra Nooyi reshaped PepsiCo, introducing sustainable and healthier products while mentoring the next generation of women executives.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her pioneering leadership and business innovation continue to inspire global leaders.
“Leadership is hard to define, and good leadership even harder.”
6. Sara Blakely – The Billionaire Disruptor in Fashion
Role: Founder, SPANX
Sara Blakely turned $5,000 and an idea into a billion-dollar shapewear empire, revolutionizing women’s fashion.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her entrepreneurial grit and support for female founders empower women worldwide.
“Embrace what you don’t know, especially in the beginning, because what you don’t know can become your greatest asset.”
7. Hana Al Rostamani – The Banking Trailblazer
Role: CEO, First Abu Dhabi Bank
As the first female CEO of the UAE’s largest bank, Hana Al Rostamani is leading financial innovation and digital banking transformation in the Middle East.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her leadership in financial services is paving the way for more women in executive banking roles.
“Innovation in banking is about creating opportunities, not just profits.”
8. Arianna Huffington – The Media Mogul & Wellness Pioneer
Role: Founder, Huffington Post & Thrive Global
Arianna Huffington built one of the most influential media platforms, then pivoted to revolutionize workplace wellness and burnout prevention.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her ability to evolve industries—from media to health—makes her an unstoppable force.
“Success is not about money or power, it’s about living with purpose.”
9. Claudia Sheinbaum – The Political Changemaker
Role: Politician, President of Mexico
Claudia Sheinbaum is Mexico’s first female president, bringing a scientific and sustainability-focused approach to governance.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her data-driven leadership and commitment to climate action are shaping the future of governance.
“Sustainability is not an option, it is the future.”
10. Nisa Leung – The Healthcare Investor & Innovator
Role: Managing Partner, Qiming Venture Partners
Nisa Leung has invested billions into healthcare startups, backing life-saving technologies, biotech breakthroughs, and digital health solutions.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her strategic investment in medical innovation is transforming global healthcare.
“Investing in healthcare is investing in humanity’s future.”
11. Aubrey Bergauer – The Performing Arts Visionary
Role: Executive, Performing Arts Consultant
Aubrey Bergauer is reinventing arts management, making classical music and theater more accessible, diverse, and financially sustainable.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her visionary leadership in the arts is creating sustainable change for cultural institutions.
“Art must be relevant to the people we serve.”
12. Nima Elbagir – The Investigative Journalist Exposing the Truth
Role: CNN Senior Correspondent
Nima Elbagir is one of the bravest journalists of our time, uncovering human rights abuses and corruption worldwide.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her relentless pursuit of the truth holds the powerful accountable.
“Journalism should shine a light where others want darkness.”
13. Summer McIntosh – The Swimming Prodigy
Role: Olympic Swimmer
At just 18, Summer McIntosh is smashing world records and is set to become the next dominant force in swimming.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her fearless approach to competition and relentless training ethic are redefining excellence in sports.
“Chase your own limits.”
14. Beyoncé – The Music & Business Icon
Role: Artist, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist
Beyoncé is more than a music legend—she’s a business mogul, activist, and cultural force. From launching Ivy Park to creating groundbreaking projects like Black Is King, she continues to redefine music, fashion, and empowerment.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her cultural impact and dedication to amplifying Black voices make her a permanent force in global influence.
“Your self-worth is determined by you. You don’t have to depend on someone telling you who you are.”
15. Taylor Swift – The Music Industry Powerhouse
Role: Singer-Songwriter, Businesswoman
Taylor Swift continues to redefine music ownership and artist empowerment, breaking records with her Eras Tour while standing up for artists’ rights in the industry.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her ability to merge storytelling, business acumen, and advocacy for artists makes her a force in entertainment.
“Be the person who can do both—write your own story and own it.”
16. Michaela Coel – The Storytelling Genius
Role: Actress, Writer, Producer
Michaela Coel is reshaping television and film with her bold storytelling. From I May Destroy You to Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, she brings authentic, thought-provoking narratives to the screen.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her fearless approach to storytelling and advocacy for Black creatives are changing the industry.
“Create the thing you wish existed.”
17. Rupi Kaur – The Poetry Revolutionary
Role: Poet, Best-selling Author
Rupi Kaur redefined poetry for a digital age, becoming a global literary phenomenon with her raw, emotional work exploring identity, feminism, and healing.
What makes her a G-Woman?
She’s making poetry accessible and powerful for a new generation of readers.
“The kindest words my father said to me: Women like you drown oceans.”
18. Chloe Zhao – The Visionary Filmmaker
Role: Academy Award-winning Director
Chloe Zhao made history as the first woman of color to win the Best Director Oscar for Nomadland. She’s bringing a new era of representation to Hollywood with her unique, human-centered storytelling.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her cinematic brilliance and ability to push boundaries make her a trailblazer in filmmaking.
“Find the stories that need to be told, and tell them with all your heart.”
19. Tarana Burke – The #MeToo Movement Founder
Role: Activist, Author
Tarana Burke ignited the #MeToo movement, amplifying survivors’ voices and exposing sexual misconduct across industries. She continues to fight for policy reforms and workplace protections for women.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her unwavering commitment to justice and empowering survivors has reshaped global conversations on sexual violence.
“You don’t have to be powerful to make a difference. You just have to be brave.”
20. Amanda Gorman – The Poetry Activist
Role: Poet, Author, Speaker
Amanda Gorman’s poetry has become a catalyst for social change, bringing themes of racial justice, feminism, and hope to a global audience.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her words inspire activism, proving that poetry can ignite movements and challenge injustice.
“For there is always light if only we’re brave enough to see it. If only we’re brave enough to be it.”
21. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala – The Economic Strategist
Role: Director-General, World Trade Organization (WTO)
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is a financial powerhouse, making history as the first African and first woman to lead the WTO. A former finance minister of Nigeria, she is at the forefront of shaping global trade policies, pushing for economic growth, sustainability, and equity in developing nations.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Ngozi’s economic foresight, bold policymaking, and advocacy for fair trade have positioned her as a leader in global finance and governance.
“If you empower a woman, you empower a community.”
22. Lina Khan – The Antitrust Trailblazer
Role: Chair, U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Lina Khan is reshaping the tech industry through her antitrust enforcement against Big Tech monopolies. As one of the youngest-ever chairs of the FTC, she is leading the charge to hold corporations accountable for fair competition and consumer rights.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Lina’s legal acumen and bold leadership are transforming digital markets, ensuring that innovation benefits society—not just corporate giants.
“The question is not whether we need antitrust enforcement, but how bold we are willing to be.”
23. Leena Nair – The Corporate Innovator
Role: Global CEO, Chanel
As the first Indian-born woman to lead luxury fashion house Chanel, Leena Nair brings a human-centered leadership approach to business. A former Unilever executive, she is reshaping luxury by integrating sustainability, inclusivity, and digital innovation into the brand’s future.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Leena’s disruptive thinking and people-first leadership are redefining how heritage brands evolve in a modern world.
“Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and ensuring that impact lasts in your absence.”
24. Reshma Saujani – The Tech & Equity Advocate
Role: Founder, Girls Who Code & Moms First
Reshma Saujani has dedicated her career to closing the gender gap in tech. Through Girls Who Code, she has helped millions of young women break into STEM. Her latest initiative, Moms First, fights for workplace policies that support mothers, challenging outdated norms around work-life balance.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Reshma’s commitment to gender equality in both technology and the workplace is a game-changing force for women’s economic empowerment.
“Teach girls bravery, not perfection.”
25. Maria Ressa – The Nobel-Winning Truth Teller
Role: Journalist, CEO of Rappler
Maria Ressa is a Nobel Peace Prize-winning journalist known for her fearless reporting on disinformation, corruption, and press freedom in the Philippines and beyond.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Maria’s relentless pursuit of the truth in the face of political persecution has made her one of the most influential journalists of our time.
“Without facts, you can’t have truth. Without truth, you can’t have trust. Without trust, democracy as we know it is dead.”
26. Mélanie Joly – The Diplomatic Powerhouse
Role: Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs
Mélanie Joly is shaping global diplomacy by advocating for democratic values, gender equality, and international security. She has been instrumental in Canada’s foreign policy stance on human rights, climate action, and global economic cooperation.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Mélanie’s strategic diplomacy and commitment to progressive global leadership make her a rising political force.
“Women belong in all places where decisions are being made.”
27. Zendaya – The Entertainment Trailblazer
Role: Actress, Producer, Fashion Icon
Zendaya is more than a Hollywood star—she is a cultural phenomenon. As an Emmy-winning actress, producer, and fashion trendsetter, she uses her platform to advocate for racial justice, mental health awareness, and representation in media.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Zendaya’s ability to break barriers while staying authentic makes her a role model for a new generation of creatives.
“There is no definition of beauty, but being yourself is the closest thing to perfection.”
28. Coco Gauff – The Tennis Superstar
Role: Grand Slam Champion, Athlete
At just 20 years old, Coco Gauff has already become a tennis icon, winning the U.S. Open and advocating for racial justice and equal pay in sports.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Coco’s champion mentality, advocacy for social change, and electrifying presence on the court make her a future legend.
“Dream big and don’t be afraid to speak up.”
29. Melanie Perkins – The Canva Queen
Role: Co-founder & CEO, Canva
Melanie Perkins revolutionized graphic design by making it accessible to everyone through Canva, a billion-dollar startup empowering creatives worldwide.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Melanie’s tech innovation and commitment to democratizing creativity have made Canva a household name in digital design.
“We’re on a mission to empower the world to design.”
30. Anne Wojcicki – The Genomics Pioneer
Role: CEO & Co-founder, 23andMe
Anne Wojcicki has revolutionized healthcare by bringing DNA testing to the masses with 23andMe, making genetic insights more accessible and advancing personalized medicine.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Anne’s pioneering work in biotechnology and genetic research is shaping the future of healthcare and longevity science.
“The more we understand our DNA, the more we can take control of our health.”
31. Niloofar Hamedi – The Journalist Fighting for Women’s Rights in Iran
Role: Investigative Journalist
Niloofar Hamedi exposed the case of Mahsa Amini, helping spark Iran’s Women, Life, Freedom movement. Her fearless reporting has led to her arrest and international recognition.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her courage in reporting under authoritarian regimes makes her a hero in journalism and human rights.
“Telling the truth is not a crime.”
32. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez – The Progressive Lawmaker
Role: U.S. Congresswoman
AOC is a trailblazer in American politics, championing climate action, economic justice, and youth empowerment while shaking up Washington’s establishment.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her bold leadership and ability to mobilize young voters make her a defining figure in progressive politics.
“Courage is contagious.”
33. Jacinda Ardern – The Resilient Leader
Role: Former Prime Minister of New Zealand, Global Advocate
Jacinda Ardern made history as one of the most compassionate and decisive world leaders, navigating COVID-19, terrorism, and climate policy with empathy and action.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her focus on inclusive governance and leadership with kindness sets a new standard in politics.
“It takes courage and strength to be empathetic.”
34. Mia Mottley – The Climate-Focused Prime Minister
Role: Prime Minister of Barbados
Mia Mottley is an outspoken leader in climate action, fighting for small island nations’ rights in global environmental policy.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her passion for sustainable policies and international diplomacy is shaping the future of climate governance.
“We are on the front lines of climate change. The time to act is now.”
35. Joy Buolamwini – The AI Bias Detective
Role: Founder, Algorithmic Justice League
Joy Buolamwini is exposing racial and gender bias in AI systems, pushing for ethical and fair technology development.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her research is forcing tech companies to be accountable in building inclusive and fair AI.
“If you have a voice, you have a responsibility to use it.”
36. Safra Catz – The Tech CEO Leading Oracle
Role: CEO, Oracle
As the CEO of Oracle, Safra Catz leads one of the world’s largest technology firms, shaping the future of cloud computing and enterprise software.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her visionary leadership in tech and business strategy keeps her at the forefront of innovation.
“Strong leadership means staying ahead of the curve.”
37. Dr. Timnit Gebru – The Ethical AI Advocate
Role: Researcher, Founder of DAIR
Dr. Timnit Gebru is a leading AI ethicist, known for her work exposing bias and accountability issues in artificial intelligence.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her courage to challenge Big Tech on AI ethics is reshaping how AI impacts society.
“Technology should serve humanity, not exploit it.”
38. Rihanna – The Beauty & Fashion Mogul
Role: Musician, CEO of Fenty Beauty & Savage X Fenty
Rihanna transformed from a global pop star to a billionaire entrepreneur, revolutionizing beauty and fashion with inclusivity.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her bold business moves and emphasis on diversity are changing the industry forever.
“There are no rules when it comes to beauty.”
39. Deepica Mutyala – The South Asian Beauty Innovator
Role: Founder, Live Tinted
Deepica Mutyala is redefining beauty standards by building Live Tinted, a brand dedicated to inclusive makeup for all skin tones.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her commitment to challenging Eurocentric beauty norms is empowering underrepresented communities.
“Representation is not a trend—it’s a necessity.”
40. Shonda Rhimes – The Storytelling Architect
Role: TV Producer, Screenwriter
From Grey’s Anatomy to Bridgerton, Shonda Rhimes has revolutionized television, bringing diverse and powerful female characters to the screen.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her trailblazing influence in media and commitment to diverse storytelling is reshaping Hollywood.
“If you want something, you have to work for it. Nothing is magic.”
41. Vanessa Nakate – The African Climate Advocate
Role: Founder, Rise Up Climate Movement
Vanessa Nakate is a leading voice in African climate activism, amplifying the impact of climate change on marginalized communities. She has addressed the United Nations, collaborated with global leaders, and founded initiatives to support renewable energy in Africa.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Vanessa’s relentless activism and grassroots efforts make her a key figure in the global environmental movement.
“We are on the front lines of the climate crisis, but we are not on the front pages.”
42. Xiye Bastida – The Indigenous Climate Warrior
Role: Co-founder, Re-Earth Initiative
Xiye Bastida, a Mexican-Chilean climate activist of Indigenous Otomi descent, is leading the charge for climate justice and Indigenous rights. She mobilizes youth activism, advocating for policies that prioritize equity and sustainability.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Xiye’s fusion of Indigenous wisdom and modern climate activism makes her a vital force for sustainable solutions.
“Climate justice is social justice.”
43. Dr. Özlem Türeci – The Vaccine Innovator
Role: Co-founder, BioNTech
Dr. Özlem Türeci played a pivotal role in developing the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, changing the course of the pandemic. She continues to lead cutting-edge research in cancer immunotherapy.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her revolutionary breakthroughs in biotechnology are saving millions of lives.
“Science succeeds when we work together.”
44. Priyanka Chopra Jonas – The Global Mental Health Advocate
Role: Actress, Activist, UNICEF Ambassador
Beyond Hollywood and Bollywood, Priyanka Chopra Jonas is a leading voice in mental health advocacy, education, and gender equality. She has partnered with UNICEF and launched initiatives supporting women’s mental wellness globally.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Priyanka’s dedication to breaking mental health stigma elevates her influence beyond entertainment.
“Women should be valued for their minds, not just their beauty.”
45. Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett – The Scientific Trailblazer
Role: Immunologist, Developer of Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine
Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett is a renowned virologist who played a key role in the development of the Moderna vaccine. She continues to research infectious diseases and pandemic preparedness.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her scientific contributions to public health are shaping the future of biomedicine and pandemic response.
“Science should be accessible to all.”
46. Athing Mu – The Track & Field Phenomenon
Role: Olympic Gold Medalist, 800m Champion
Athing Mu is a dominant force in track and field, setting records in the 800m and 400m races while advocating for increased representation of Black female athletes in sports.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her grace under pressure and record-breaking performances have made her an icon for the next generation of track stars.
“Confidence is everything. Believe in yourself, and the rest will follow.”
47. Iga Świątek – The Tennis Dominator
Role: World No. 1 Tennis Player
At just 23, Iga Świątek has taken the tennis world by storm, winning multiple Grand Slam titles and dominating the WTA rankings. She is also a strong advocate for mental health in sports.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her discipline, advocacy for mental resilience, and sheer dominance on the court make her a generational athlete.
“Tennis is a game, but mental strength is everything.”
48. Fei-Fei Li – The AI Ethicist & Pioneer
Role: Co-Director, Stanford Human-Centered AI
Fei-Fei Li is a leading voice in artificial intelligence ethics, advocating for responsible AI development that serves humanity.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her work ensures that AI remains a tool for empowerment, not exploitation.
“AI must be built with human values at its core.”
49. Whitney Wolfe Herd – The Digital Dating Disruptor
Role: Founder & CEO, Bumble
Whitney Wolfe Herd redefined online dating with Bumble, the first major dating app that gives women control over conversations. Her company has since expanded into networking and business connections.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her vision for women-centric digital spaces is transforming tech and social interactions.
“Women should make the first move—in business, in relationships, in life.”
50. Anne Boden – The Fintech Revolutionary
Role: Founder, Starling Bank
Anne Boden built Starling Bank, a leading digital-first financial institution, from the ground up, proving that fintech can be ethical, innovative, and female-led.
What makes her a G-Woman?
Her mission to make banking accessible, transparent, and customer-focused is reshaping finance.
“Technology should serve people, not the other way around.”
Final Thought
The G-Woman Power List: Top 50 Women to Watch in 2025 is a celebration of excellence, innovation, and courage. These women don’t just participate in the world—they transform it.
Whether they are building businesses, leading nations, shattering records, or breaking stereotypes, they represent the future of leadership, creativity, and impact.
And as the world watches them, they remind us all:
The future is female. The future is fearless.
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