a force to be reckoned with. As the founder of the Black Girl Festival, she has created a space for black women and girls to celebrate their identity, share their stories, and uplift each other. The festival has grown exponentially over the years, drawing thousands of attendees and featuring a diverse range of speakers, performers, and vendors. Adejoké’s vision and leadership have been instrumental in shaping the festival into a powerful platform for empowerment and representation.
Maria Balshaw is the director of Tate galleries and a champion of diversity and inclusion in the arts.
Margrethe Vestager© Soazig de la Moissonnière/Reutersby Lina KhanMargrethe Vestager has been a fierce advocate for fair competition in the digital sphere, leading the charge against tech giants who have wielded their power to stifle innovation and harm consumers. Her landmark rulings against companies like Google and Apple have set a precedent for holding big tech accountable and ensuring a level playing field for all players in the market. As Europe’s competition commissioner, Vestager has shown that regulatory action can make a real difference in shaping the future of technology and protecting the interests of consumers.
Lina Khan is a legal scholar and associate professor at Columbia Law School, known for her work on antitrust and competition policy.
Rachel Reeves© Chris McAndrewby Mariana MazzucatoRachel Reeves has been a driving force behind the UK’s efforts to build a more inclusive and sustainable economy. As the shadow chancellor of the exchequer, she has championed policies to address inequality, promote innovation, and tackle climate change. Reeves’s vision for a fairer and more prosperous society has resonated with voters across the political spectrum, making her a key figure in shaping the future of the UK’s economic policy.
Mariana Mazzucato is an economist and professor at University College London, known for her work on the role of the state in fostering innovation and growth.
Lisa Su© Patrick T. Fallon/Bloombergby Tsai Ing-wenLisa Su has been a trailblazer in the male-dominated field of semiconductor technology, leading AMD to unprecedented success and positioning the company as a major player in the industry. Under her leadership, AMD has developed cutting-edge products that have revolutionized the way we think about computing and gaming. Su’s commitment to innovation and her strategic vision have earned her widespread recognition as a top executive in the tech world.
Tsai Ing-wen is the president of Taiwan and a strong advocate for women’s rights and equality.
Ursula von der Leyen© Kenzo Tribouillard/AFP/Getty Imagesby Kristalina GeorgievaUrsula von der Leyen has been a transformative figure in European politics, leading the European Commission with a clear vision for a more united and sustainable continent. Her bold initiatives on climate change, digital transformation, and social justice have set the EU on a path towards a greener, more inclusive future. Von der Leyen’s leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic has also been commendable, as she has worked tirelessly to coordinate a pan-European response to the crisis and ensure the health and well-being of all EU citizens.
Kristalina Georgieva is the managing director of the International Monetary Fund and a global leader in economic policy and development.
Kamala Harris© Kent Nishimura/Los Angeles Times/Getty Imagesby Rana ForooharKamala Harris has shattered glass ceilings and inspired millions of people around the world with her historic election as the first female vice president of the United States. As a champion for racial and gender equality, Harris has used her platform to advocate for justice, equity, and opportunity for all Americans. Her leadership on issues like healthcare, immigration, and criminal justice reform has made a real impact on people’s lives and set a positive example for future generations of leaders.
Rana Foroohar is a business columnist and associate editor at the Financial Times, known for her insightful commentary on the global economy.
Cristina Junqueira© Marlene Bergamo/Folhapressby Luiza TrajanoCristina Junqueira is a visionary entrepreneur who has revolutionized the financial industry in Brazil with her innovative approach to banking and financial services. As the co-founder of Nubank, she has built a digital bank that has disrupted the traditional banking sector and empowered millions of Brazilians to take control of their finances. Junqueira’s commitment to financial inclusion and her dedication to customer service have earned her widespread praise and recognition as a leader in the fintech industry.
Luiza Trajano is the chairwoman of Magazine Luiza, one of Brazil’s largest retail chains, and a prominent advocate for women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship.
Fei-Fei Li© Ethan Miller/Getty Imagesby Melinda French GatesFei-Fei Li is a trailblazer in the field of artificial intelligence, known for her groundbreaking research on computer vision and machine learning. As the co-director of the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence, she has been a leading voice in shaping the ethical and social implications of AI technology. Li’s work has had a profound impact on the development of AI applications in healthcare, education, and other critical areas, and her advocacy for diversity and inclusion in the tech industry has inspired a new generation of AI researchers and innovators.
Melinda French Gates is the co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment and global health.
Claudia Sheinbaum© Joe Raedle/Getty Imagesby Gillian TettClaudia Sheinbaum has been a trailblazing figure in Mexican politics, serving as the first female mayor of Mexico City and leading the city through a period of significant social and economic change. Sheinbaum’s progressive policies on urban development, environmental sustainability, and social justice have earned her widespread praise and recognition as a transformative leader in the region. Her commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance has set a positive example for other cities around the world.
Gillian Tett is the chair of the editorial board and editor-at-large, US, at the Financial Times, known for her insightful commentary on global economics and finance.
Christine Lagarde© Angela Weiss/AFP/Getty Imagesby Minouche ShafikChristine Lagarde has been a pioneering figure in the world of finance, serving as the first female president of the European Central Bank and leading the institution through a period of unprecedented economic challenges. Lagarde’s bold initiatives on monetary policy, financial stability, and sustainability have been instrumental in supporting the eurozone economy and promoting economic growth across the region. Her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic has been commendable, as she has worked tirelessly to ensure the stability of the financial system and support the recovery of the European economy.
Minouche Shafik is the director of the London School of Economics and Political Science and a leading expert on global economic policy and development.
Julia Hoggett© Financial Timesby Sharon WhiteJulia Hoggett has been a driving force behind the UK’s efforts to build a more resilient and sustainable financial system, leading the Financial Conduct Authority with a clear vision for consumer protection and market integrity. Hoggett’s strategic initiatives on regulatory reform, technological innovation, and diversity and inclusion have set a positive example for other financial regulators around the world. Her commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct has earned her widespread praise and recognition as a top regulator in the industry.
Sharon White is the chair of the John Lewis Partnership and a prominent advocate for responsible business practices and corporate governance.
Ruth Porat© Simon Dawson/Bloombergby Jane FraserRuth Porat has been a transformative figure in the world of finance, serving as the chief financial officer of Alphabet Inc. and leading the company through a period of significant growth and innovation. Porat’s strategic vision and financial acumen have been instrumental in driving Alphabet’s success and positioning the company as a leader in the tech industry. Her commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership has earned her widespread recognition as a top executive in the corporate world.
Jane Fraser is the CEO of Citigroup and the first woman to lead a major Wall Street bank, known for her strategic leadership and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Arundhati Roy© Anindito Mukherjee/Reutersby Naomi KleinArundhati Roy is a fearless voice for justice and equality, using her platform as a writer and activist to speak out against social and environmental injustices around the world. Roy’s groundbreaking work on issues like caste oppression, environmental destruction, and economic inequality has inspired a new generation of activists and changemakers to fight for a more just and sustainable future. Her commitment to truth, justice, and solidarity has earned her widespread praise and recognition as a leading voice for social change.
Naomi Klein is a journalist, author, and activist known for her work on climate change, economic justice, and corporate power.
Bisan Owda© Sara Aldebeby Heba SalehBisan Owda is a courageous journalist and activist who has risked her life to report on the conflict in Syria and advocate for human rights and justice. As a correspondent for the Financial Times, she has covered the war in Syria with integrity and compassion, shedding light on the human cost of the conflict and giving a voice to the voiceless. Owda’s dedication to truth, justice, and freedom of speech has earned her widespread praise and recognition as a fearless advocate for democracy and human rights.
Heba Saleh is the Middle East and North Africa editor at the Financial Times, known for her insightful reporting on the region’s political and social issues.
Gisèle Pelicot© Audrey Cerdanby Leïla SlimaniGisèle Pelicot is a visionary fashion designer who has redefined the concept of beauty and style, creating garments that celebrate diversity, individuality, and self-expression. As the founder of her eponymous fashion label, she has challenged traditional norms and stereotypes in the industry, promoting inclusivity, sustainability, and creativity in her designs. Pelicot’s bold and innovative approach to fashion has inspired a new generation of designers and fashion enthusiasts to embrace their unique identities and express themselves through clothing.
Leïla Slimani is a writer and journalist known for her insightful commentary on gender, culture, and society.
Yulia Navalnaya© Sergei Karpukhin/Reutersby Zhanna NemtsovaYulia Navalnaya is a fearless advocate for democracy and human rights in Russia, using her platform as the wife of opposition leader Alexei Navalny to speak out against corruption, injustice, and repression in the country. Despite facing threats, harassment, and intimidation, Navalnaya has remained steadfast in her commitment to freedom, democracy, and the rule of law, inspiring millions of Russians to stand up for their rights and demand accountability from their government. Her courage, resilience, and determination have earned her widespread praise and recognition as a leading voice for change in Russia.
Zhanna Nemtsova is a journalist and activist known for her work on democracy, human rights, and social justice.
Simone Biles© Carmen Mandato/Getty Imagesby Anna WintourSimone Biles is a trailblazing athlete who has redefined the sport of gymnastics with her unparalleled talent, skill, and determination. As a multiple Olympic and world champion, Biles has pushed the boundaries of what is possible in gymnastics, showcasing her incredible athleticism, grace, and strength on the world stage. Her commitment to excellence, perseverance, and mental health awareness has inspired a new generation of athletes and fans to dream big and never give up on their goals. Biles’s impact on the sport of gymnastics and her advocacy for mental health have earned her widespread praise and recognition as a true champion and role model.
Anna Wintour is the editor-in-chief of Vogue and a prominent figure in the fashion industry, known for her influence and style.
Jasmin Paris© Mark Pinder for the Financial Timesby Eilish McColganJasmin Paris is a record-breaking ultrarunner who has shattered stereotypes and barriers in the world of endurance sports with her incredible feats of athleticism, perseverance, and determination. As the first woman to win the grueling Montane Spine Race, Paris has shown that women can compete and excel in the most challenging and demanding athletic events. Her commitment to pushing the limits of her physical and mental capabilities has inspired a new generation of runners and outdoor enthusiasts to embrace the spirit of adventure and exploration. Paris’s achievements in ultrarunning and her advocacy for gender equality in sports have earned her widespread praise and recognition as a true trailblazer and role model.
Eilish McColgan is a professional middle-distance runner and Olympian, known for her achievements in track and field athletics.
Anne Hidalgo© Ludovic Marin/AFP/Getty Imagesby Leila AbboudAnne Hidalgo is a pioneering figure in urban planning and sustainability, serving as the mayor of Paris and leading the city through a period of significant transformation and innovation. Hidalgo’s bold initiatives on climate change, public transportation, and green spaces have earned her widespread praise and recognition as a visionary leader in the field. Her commitment to creating a more livable, equitable, and sustainable city for all residents has set a positive example for other cities around the world to follow.
Leila Abboud is the chief correspondent for France at the Financial Times, known for her insightful reporting on French politics and society.
These women of 2024 represent a diverse range of backgrounds, industries, and accomplishments, but they all share a common commitment to making a positive impact on the world and shaping a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future for all. Their stories inspire us to strive for excellence, embrace diversity, and work together to create a better world for ourselves and future generations.