This article highlights ten inspiring women whose contributions have changed the course of history. Pakistani activist Malala Yousafzai fought for girls’ education and became the youngest-ever Nobel Prize laureate. Ruth Bader Ginsburg fought for gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights as a Supreme Court Justice. Aung San Suu Kyi fought for democracy and human rights in Myanmar and became the State Counsellor. Ada Lovelace is considered the first computer programmer, and Jane Goodall revolutionized understanding of animal behavior. Ellen DeGeneres used her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, and Greta Thunberg became a global icon for her passionate climate activism. Wangari Maathai founded the Green Belt Movement and fought for democracy and human rights in Kenya. Frida Kahlo’s self-portraits challenge societal norms and inspire generations of artists. These women’s legacies continue to inspire us to work towards a better world, one where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.
10 Inspiring Women of the World
Throughout history, we have seen countless women who have made significant contributions to society, paving the way for millions of people around the world. These women have broken down barriers, challenged injustices, and fought for equality, and because of them, we are able to enjoy an unprecedented level of freedom and opportunity. Here are ten inspiring women whose contributions have changed the course of history.
1. Malala Yousafzai
Malala Yousafzai is a Pakistani activist who became an international icon for her courage in standing up for girls’ education. At just 16 years old, Malala was shot by the Taliban for her outspoken advocacy, but she refused to be silenced. She went on to become the youngest-ever Nobel Prize laureate and continues to fight for equal access to education for all children worldwide.
2. Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a trailblazing American jurist and feminist icon who served as a Supreme Court Justice for 27 years until her death in 2020. She fought tirelessly for gender equality, women’s rights, and LGBTQ+ rights throughout a career spanning decades, earning the nickname “The Notorious RBG”. Her legacy will forever inspire generations of people to fight for equality and justice.
3. Aung San Suu Kyi
Aung San Suu Kyi is a Burmese politician and activist who spent 15 years under house arrest for her role in fighting for democracy and human rights in Myanmar. She eventually went on to become the State Counsellor, the de facto leader of Myanmar’s government, and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991. Although her reputation has been tarnished in recent years due to her government’s treatment of Rohingya Muslims, her courageous activism will always be remembered.
4. Ada Lovelace
Ada Lovelace was a English mathematician and writer who is widely considered as the first computer programmer. In the 19th century, she developed an algorithm for Charles Babbage’s proposed Analytical Engine, a precursor to the modern computer. Her contributions were largely overlooked during her lifetime but have since gained recognition as foundational to the computing industry.
5. Jane Goodall
Jane Goodall is a British primatologist and anthropologist who spent over 55 years studying chimpanzees in the wild. Her revolutionary research changed our understanding of animal behavior and challenged long-held beliefs about the superiority of humans. She is also an outspoken advocate for animal rights and conservation, inspiring countless people to take action to protect our planet.
6. Malala Maiwand
Malala Maiwand was an Afghan journalist who was assassinated in 2020 for her work advocating for women’s rights and democracy. Despite the immense danger she faced, she refused to be silenced, and her legacy has inspired many others to fight for justice and equality in Afghanistan.
7. Ellen DeGeneres
Ellen DeGeneres is an American comedian, television host, and actress who is known for her groundbreaking work as an openly gay woman in Hollywood. Her talk show, “The Ellen DeGeneres Show”, has become a cultural phenomenon, and she has used her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and kindness towards others. Her generosity and compassion have inspired millions around the world.
8. Greta Thunberg
Greta Thunberg is a Swedish environmental activist who has become a global icon for her passionate advocacy for climate action. She started a school strike for climate in 2018, sparking a worldwide movement of young people who are demanding action from world leaders. Her message is simple but powerful: we must act immediately to protect our planet and ensure a future for generations to come.
9. Wangari Maathai
Wangari Maathai was a Kenyan environmental and political activist who founded the Green Belt Movement, which encouraged rural women to plant trees in order to combat deforestation and desertification. She also fought for democracy and human rights in Kenya and became the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004. Her legacy lives on through the millions of trees that have been planted throughout Africa in her honor.
10. Frida Kahlo
Frida Kahlo was a Mexican painter who is known for her vibrant and striking self-portraits, which explore themes of identity, ethnicity, and the female experience. Her work has had a profound impact on the art world, inspiring generations of artists to use their voices to challenge societal norms and express their own unique perspectives.
These ten women are just a few of the countless inspiring female trailblazers who have changed the course of history. Their legacies and contributions continue to inspire us to work towards a better world, one where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential, regardless of gender, race, or any other identifier.