In the ever-evolving landscape of global leadership, 2024 promises is a year of unprecedented change and opportunity. As we stand on the cusp of technological revolutions, environmental challenges, and societal transformations, a new generation of women leaders is rising to the forefront, ready to tackle these complex issues head-on. This list showcases 20 remarkable women who are not just breaking glass ceilings but redefining the very nature of leadership itself. From pioneering scientists and innovative entrepreneurs to fearless activists and visionary policymakers, these women represent the diverse faces of power in the modern world. As we dive into their stories, prepare to be inspired by their resilience, awed by their achievements, and excited for the future they're shaping.
Lethicia Bronstein
Lethicia Bronstein is a renowned fashion designer and entrepreneur who has significantly impacted the Brazilian and global fashion industries. Known for her intricate designs and dedication to showcasing Brazilian talent, Lethicia has dressed celebrities and influential figures, bringing #RedCarpetMadeInBrazil to the world stage. Her signature patchwork of lace and embroidery accentuates the female form with sensuality and modernity.
Her entrepreneurial spirit has led her to win awards for her commitment to employing and empowering women. Prestigious brands like Veuve Clicquot and AB Inbev have noticed her, resulting in high-profile collaborations to increase her brand's reach nationally and internationally.
With a robust digital presence boasting over 500k followers, Lethicia continues to influence through her lifestyle, innovative designs, and empowering messages. Recognized as one of the leading names in bridal and evening gowns in the country, her work has been worn by global personalities like Jennifer Lopez and Paris Hilton. Fox Life even created a reality show called "The Stylist" to showcase her life and impact on Latin American fashion.
Varsha Paul
Varsha Paul is a distinguished pageant title holder with Ms. Asia United States Regency International, with People's Choice Award in the same. She is a Digital Creator, New York Fashion Week model, and wannabe mental health activist. Currently, she excels as a Technical Program Manager at one of the top FAANG companies. Varsha earned her degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Texas at Dallas and now resides in New York, after participating in numerous shows during her time in Seattle, WA. She has also been featured on Times Square billboards. A silver medalist at the National Mathematics Olympiad, she is deeply grateful to her parents for being the wind beneath her wings. She’s a firm believer in the mantra, “give your best and God will do the rest,”. Varsha sees this as just the beginning of fulfilling many more dreams.
Tiffany Chang
Tiffany Chang, this year’s Miss Asia USA and the first Taiwanese to earn this title, studies at Stanford University, majoring in Engineering Management & Human-Centered Design. Active within the Asian American community, Tiffany serves as a spokesperson, emcee, influencer, and model, partnering with organizations like Asia Society and Girl Scouts. She aims to empower and integrate the Asian American community into the mainstream. During her reign, she has thrown the first pitch at MLS games, attended numerous parades, appeared on talk shows, and collaborated with various brands. Academically, she helped launch the Taiwan Program at the Asian Pacific Research Center and worked as an economics research assistant. Currently, she leads investor relations and marketing at Kneron, an AI company. Tiffany's commitment to philanthropy goes beyond the realms of pageantry. She founded Madhatter Knits, a 501(c)3 international nonprofit organization dedicated to supplying knit hats for premature babies in the NICU. Through her platform, Tiffany is dedicated to advocacy and being a source of inspiration and empowerment for others.
Lisa Phillips
Lisa Phillips, a former international model turned Model Scout turned activist, is a shining example of turning trauma into triumph by dedicating her time, resources and efforts to educating and guiding others who seek success in the entertainment Business. After experiencing trauma as a young model herself, Lisa redirected her life’s mission towards healing and empowering others in a purposeful yet safe way.
Launching “From Now On,” in August 2024, Lisa’s powerful video podcast features interviews and deep talks with survivors of notorious sex offenders in the entertainment world. The podcast aims to provide a platform for women to share their stories but to focus on navigating the aftermath of trauma, and receive advice on how to avoid falling prey to predators while pursuing careers in modeling, acting, and beyond.
Through helping others heal, Lisa believes, we find a sense of fulfillment and empowerment. The community Lisa is building is a vital source of strength, reinforcing recovery and healing. It offers the encouragement and validation that survivors often lack, creating a supportive environment where they can thrive.
Lisa Phillips is a name to watch, as her journey is marked by courage, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. Her story proves that from the depths of adversity, extraordinary strength and success can emerge, inspiring countless others to transform their lives and pursue their dreams with renewed hope.
Natalie Perkins, PhD
Natalie Perkins, known affectionately as "You Got This," is a creative and purpose-driven CEO who embodies passion and dedication. A self-proclaimed data nerd and a connoisseur of product design, Natalie has a knack for merging sophisticated simplicity with true effectiveness. Her commitment to women's empowerment and health fuels her mission: ensuring no aging woman is left behind in redefining menopause as a time to take control of their health.
Natalie's belief in the importance of listening to and investing in one's brain and body, forms the foundation of her philosophy for professional success. She advocates for a holistic approach to health in order to achieve one's full potential.
As a mother of four and a partner to an incredible man who values teamwork and support, Natalie believes ‘balance’ is a four-letter word rather we make choices on what we prioritize our time but quality over quantity and communication are key.
She is determined to turn PAUZ Health into a brand every woman over the age of 35 accesses to empower them to grab life by the ovaries, driving forward a vision where health and success are accessible to all.
Carol Zatt
Carol Zatt is a creative marketing strategist and international entrepreneur who empowers women to feel confident in front of the camera, in the boardroom, or while running their businesses from home.
Unfulfilled in her previous job, Carol pursued her passion for photography. Eventually, she landed a role as Google's leading content creator and worked with brands like YouTube, Lego, and Sonos. Since then, Carol has embarked on a mission to teach others to craft impactful social media content and authentically stand out from the crowd.
She hosts the “Marketing FLOW” podcast, where she interviews leaders and visionaries like Joe Foster, founder of Reebok, and other successful entrepreneurs to provide short and valuable insights about marketing and business that people can apply to their businesses.
She runs a disruptive marketing agency, that provides accessible and personalised marketing services for small business owners and co-runs a community called SisterShip, where she passionately advocates for women's issues, diversity, inclusion, and equality.
She shares her inspirational story of leaving a simple life in the south of Brazil to travel the world and work with luxury brands. She is now dedicated to transforming the digital landscape and empowering women to turn their visions into impactful realities, proving that everything is possible when you have a “Marketing FLOW”.
Trayce Madre
Trayce Madre is a dynamic leader in the luxury beauty industry with over two decades of experience. Featured in Forbes, Essence, ABC, NBC, BET, and on shows like Steve Harvey and The Biggest Loser, her podcast "The Trayce Madre Show" is set to become a TV show on Amazon, Roku, and JD3TV in August 2024.
Trayce has worked with celebrities such as Angela Simmons, Michelle Williams, Phylicia Rashad, and Beverly Johnson. As founder of Restore RX Beauty, a luxury vegan hair care line, and Pure Raw Extensions, she's achieved global expansion on Amazon and partnered with Walmart.com, with 90% of products shipping from their warehouses. Her healthy hair vitamins will soon be available at Walgreens.
Trayce is also the creator of the $500k chair educational system and #GETMadred, providing hair extension services to celebrities, executives, and high-achieving women. Her mission is to inspire one billion women to live luxurious, fulfilling lives through her products, education, and services. With an impressive track record and infectious energy, Trayce Madre is a force to be reckoned with, serving as an inspiration to women everywhere.
Susanna Rantanen
Susanna Rantanen is the world's leading modern employer branding expert and influencer. As the innovator, CEO, and face of a boutique employer branding agency in Helsinki, Finland, she and her husband have revolutionized the field with the Magnetic Employer Branding Method™️. This methodology, noted as a game-changer globally, combines business storytelling and the science of persuasion to align talent with company missions, positioning employer branding as a continuous communication and content marketing process.
Her agency, recognized as one of the Top 10 Employer Branding Agencies in Europe in 2020, caters exceptionally well to fast-growing tech startups and scaleups, companies navigating mergers and acquisitions, and businesses undergoing significant transformations. Rantanen's approach seamlessly connects business strategies with company cultures and employee experiences, forming the backbone of compelling business narratives.
With a degree in Marketing & PR from a British university and nearly a decade in HR, Rantanen's expertise spans talent attraction, acquisition, and cultivating enriching workplace cultures. Her pioneering work in recruitment marketing on social media dates back to 2011, establishing her as a trailblazer in Finland's HR landscape.
Rantanen, also named a Top 50 Global Thought Leader on Personal Branding by Thinkers360 in 2024, is currently penning a book on her innovative method. Her globally acclaimed podcast, "Building a Modern Employer Brand," continues to inspire HR, talent acquisition, and marketing professionals worldwide.
Tokunbo Fasoro
Tokunbo Fasoro, an award-winning entrepreneur, author, coach, and the visionary behind Lioness by TF, has swiftly carved out a niche in the global fashion arena. Inspired by her mother and some iconic brands Tokunbo’s journey into fashion began at 17, driven by dreams of creating a global brand that marries quality with sustainability.
Growing up Tokunbo overcame numerous challenges and rejections, but she was determined to be limitless. Through resilience and determination, Tokunbo balanced running a fashion business in Nigeria with a successful HR career. In 2023, her move to the United Kingdom marked the launch of Lioness by TF, a brand dedicated to crafting exquisite, durable fashion while empowering women.
Lioness by TF prides itself on using high-quality fabrics and local artisans, with production based in the UK to minimize environmental impact. Rapidly gaining traction, the brand partnered with global retailers within its first month online and in stores. Tokunbo’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation will be showcased at the Pure London exhibition in July, highlighting her creative prowess and dedication to helping women achieve greatness through fashion.
Yuliia Bryan
Yuliia Bryan is a fashion designer, CEO ,founder of brand YLYNX ,entrepreneur , wife and mom, who while ago immigrated to Canada from Ukraine.She has always been passionate about fashion and aesthetic beauty; everything what’s makes a woman look and feel special and beautiful.
Yuliia created her fashion brand with a mission to inspire women to recognize their inner and outer grace, beauty, and exclusivity. Belief in yourself treat yourself as a Queen! YLYNX’s slogan - “Produce your fairytale - you are the Queen!”
In May of this year, she were invited to attend the 77th Cannes Film Festival in France as a fashion designer, model and brand owner.It was a successful debut on the “red carpet”; photos in fashion magazines and many social media posts featuring the models and dresses.
It has been a wonderful start for a new brand. Yuliia is very excited and inspired to make the best garment for each client - because every woman deserves to fell like a Queen - regardless of her background, size or shape. Yuliia will ensure every client can find her perfect gown, and reign over her own fairytale. YLYNX provides a luxury couture garment, and also gives a sense of specialty and nobility to the person who wears it.
Ihsane Haouach
Ihsane Haouach is a societal entrepreneur and author dedicated to promoting equitable and sustainable transitions. As a mother of three, her life's mission is to bridge the social, public, and private sectors. Driven by the belief that our society's future lies in integrating energy solutions with social challenges, she has always maintained a dual focus. Haouach has spearheaded numerous international projects targeting efficient and effective organizations and founded several non-profit initiatives aimed at promoting equity. Her efforts particularly emphasize educating women and young people, and she co-initiated "L'Epicerie," a center in Brussels. She also serves on the board of the Brussels regulatory energy and water agency. Recognized as one of “Belgium's 40 under 40” leaders, Haouach has received multiple awards for her contributions. Her first book, "Open Up Your Organisation," presents an innovative and inclusive leadership model, while her second, “C’est pas personnel,” blends reality and fiction to enhance societal dialogue with humanity and humor.
Anca Gherle
Anca Gherle, the youngest woman in Romania to lead an international public affairs agency, excels in supporting US companies in their investments and collaborations with the Romanian administration. With over 14 years of experience in legislative and policy-making within the Romanian and EU Parliaments, as well as the private sector, Anca is committed to fostering transparent and strong partnerships for a sustainable global economy.
Beginning her career at 19 as a political communication strategist, Anca holds a degree in Journalism and an MA in Public Administration. She has significantly impacted the Romanian transport market by regulating and opening it to companies like Uber, Lyft, Bolt, and FREE NOW. Anca's academic credentials include certifications from Harvard Business School Online, the London School of Economics, and Oxford Royale Academy, along with being a certified AI expert.
Currently, Anca leads Aretera Public Affairs in Romania, effectively bridging political and private sectors. Her ambition and self-made success have led her to advocate for and implement significant national and EU legislation as well as advocating for developing the country’s economy through foreign or local investments. Anca believes in mutual understanding and collaboration for a sustainable future. She recently was admitted to the prestigious European University Institute in Florence for the Global Executive Master program, aligning with her global vision.
Anele Nzimande-Maphanga
Anele Nzimande-Maphanga is a PR Maven with a gift for story-telling and building relationships. An avid read and writer, she’s a co-authored two books and has several articles under her belt across various publications in South Africa which include Sunday Times, Bizcommunity, Daily Maverick. After graduating with an LLB from the University of the Witwatersrand, she decided to pivot into communications, which was a long-life dream! She completed vacation work at one of the leading law firms – ENSAfrica and later secured a coveted spot to do her articles with the firm. Her leadership skills have always set her apart – from serving as the Vice Chairperson of the Law Students council to being selected from thousands of young hopefuls as a contestant on a television show called One Day Leader.
Anele is truly a leader for every season who brings a fresh analytical and strategic approach to Public Relations, now boasting close to a decade of communications and marketing experience. Her work experience includes working for leading agencies and at FMCG giants such as Procter & Gamble and Unilever which has seen her lead award-winning campaigns recognized at the EFFIES and has been recently featured on the Global Citizen stage in New York for her #BloodSisters leading the Always sanitary pad brand. This work caught the attention of former U.S First Lady Michelle, Melinda Gates and Amal Clooney, who partnered with the Always brand to support young girls in Malawi and drive advocacy against Child Marriage. She is currently the PR Lead for Beauty, Wellbeing and Personal Care for Unilever South Africa managing top brands such as Vaseline, Dove, Shield, Lifebuoy, Axe and many more leading brand communications and ground-breaking PR campaigns.
Karen Rudolf
Karen Rudolf, aka Super Stress Reliever, is the creator of Tranquil SOULutions, LLC, and a dedicated Women's Empowerment Coach. A Catalyst for Change, she is a 5x international best-selling collaborative author and a seasoned facilitator in the realm of "W"Holistic well-being. Recently featured in the July, 24 edition of Business Innovators Magazine, Karen's mission is to support women in transforming their lives by addressing mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health.
Through innovative communication strategies, self-leadership techniques, and a compassionate approach, she guides clients to overcome challenges, build resilience, and unlock their true potential. Her unique 7 Pillars of Health framework fosters personal and professional growth, emphasizing a holistic perspective. Karen's work empowers women to embrace authenticity, live harmonized lives, and achieve lasting positive change. With a deep commitment to empathy and genuine support, she is a trusted partner in their journey toward self-discovery, empowerment, and personal freedom.
Simla Sooboodoo
Simla Sooboodoo is the founder of Hands on Journeys, a travel company that combines tourism with sustainable empowerment initiatives. Born in Mauritius, Simla overcame early family struggles and moved to Australia, where she pursued her education and began a career in the travel industry. After surviving a life-threatening brain hemorrhage and aneurysm, Simla gained a renewed appreciation for life and a desire to make a difference.
During her personal travels, Simla dedicated time to volunteer work in developing countries, which inspired her to create Hands on Journeys in 2015. The company offers small group tours that allow travelers to contribute meaningfully to local communities while exploring new destinations.
Drawing from her own experiences of receiving support and opportunities, Simla aims to create positive change through sustainable tourism. Her approach focuses on job creation and teaching essential life skills in the communities she works with. Simla's vision is to build a community of travelers who seek authentic experiences while making a lasting impact on the lives of others.
Caroline Podgurski
Caroline Podgurski is a multifaceted Belgian woman with deep roots in the film and television industry, particularly in fiction. However, her talents and passions extend far beyond this realm. A true artist at heart, Caroline harbors a profound love for various forms of artistic expression, including musical theater, music, and traditional theater.
Feeling undervalued in her home country's industry, Caroline aspires to transition into the broader arts sector, where she believes her true calling lies. She dreams of creating music and working in theater as a performer, hoping to find the recognition and opportunities that align with her abilities.
Caroline describes herself as a sensitive, romantic, and unique individual. She firmly believes in perfect timing, the power of dreamers, and the importance of mutual support among like-minded individuals. In her leisure time, Caroline enjoys practicing yoga, engaging in aerobics and party aerobics, and finding tranquility through meditation.
Rosemary Sales
Rosemary Sales is a passionate community leader and outdoor enthusiast dedicated to fostering intergenerational connections through nature. In 2018, she founded the Wye Knot community to bridge generational gaps. With a background in activities direction and a management diploma, Rosemary has pioneered numerous initiatives, including Herefordshire's first intergenerational playgroup and the pandemic-era WyldWood newspaper. As a Paddle Boarding and Forest School leader, she combines her love for the outdoors with her mission to enrich lives. Rosemary currently runs a forest schooling project for boys with special needs and leads women's wilderness adventures along the River Wye. Her work extends internationally, with ongoing projects in Sweden and West Virginia, USA. Through her diverse endeavors, Rosemary continues to make a positive impact, inspiring appreciation for nature and fostering community well-being across generations.
Ann Schreiber
Ann Schreiber is a seasoned marketing and sales professional with extensive experience in leadership roles across various financial institutions, including FICO and Experian. In 2019, she began blogging and copywriting as a side hustle, discovering her passion for creating compelling content that helps businesses grow their brand awareness, trust, and authority.
In early 2023, she launched her own business, Copywriting For You, committed to delivering content that not only captivates current and prospective customers but also boosts search engine rankings. Ann’s writing covers industries such as health and wellness, family and relationships, personal finance, business and marketing, communications, technology, and more.
In June 2024, Ann published her first book, "Perseverance. Reinvention.," which chronicles her journey after a challenging divorce, rebuilding her life, starting her business, and becoming a better version of herself. Ann’s dedication to her craft ensures that her clients achieve their marketing goals through engaging and effective content.
Katrina Kubicina
Katrina Kubicina is a certified life coach trained by MindValley, dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve their healthiest and happiest lives. Through her transformative program "102 Days of You," she guides clients on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Katrina's passion lies in unlocking her clients' full potential, combining expert coaching with compassionate support. Her holistic approach addresses various aspects of well-being, helping people overcome obstacles, set and achieve goals, and cultivate a positive mindset. With personalized guidance and unwavering commitment, Katrina assists her clients in creating lives they truly love. Her mission is clear: to help individuals thrive and embrace their best selves through targeted coaching and support.
Tiffany Varchetto
Tiffany is the CEO of The One Matchmakers. She was a prior Physician Assistant/Associate PA-C and Nurse, RN for more than 25 years in the medical field. A Philanthropist and Advocate for Breast Cancer, St. Jude Children’s Hospital, Christian Churches and values, and Anti-Harassment and Bullying.
She is passionate about matchmaking and finding love for men and women. She believes a relationship is a blend of mind, body, and soul. Having coached medical professionals, Tiffany now employs her natural coaching talents to foster lasting, happy relationships. Armed with certificates in Matchmaking and Relationship Coaching, Tiffany approaches her role with a focused and fun attitude, embracing the holistic coaching that nurtures emotional, spiritual, and physical aspects.
The One Matchmakers is a boutique upscale matchmaking service. It’s an “Old School” yet new approach to dating. No online. No swiping. Private and professional. Tiffany has a warm and straightforward nature that puts you at ease. While her goal- oriented mindset imparts inspirational advice. Her matchmaking is a National Matchmaking business, with emphasis in California and Florida. Now residing in Orange County, California, Tiffany is happily married to her husband, James. Loves the ocean and beach. Boating and relaxing with her family and friends.
Final Thoughts
As we look ahead to the rest of 2024 and beyond, the women featured in this list stand as beacons of hope and catalysts for change. Their journeys remind us that leadership is not about titles or traditional power structures, but about the ability to inspire, innovate, and create lasting impact. These 20 women, each unique in their approach and field of expertise, collectively paint a picture of a future where diversity drives progress and empathy is as valued as efficiency. They challenge us to think bigger, act bolder, and never underestimate the power of a determined woman with a vision. As we celebrate their accomplishments, let's also recognize that they are just the tip of the iceberg – representing countless other women who are driving change in their communities and industries every day. The future of leadership is here, and it's unmistakably female.