How We Chose the 2025 Women of the Year

Every year, Time magazine releases its highly anticipated list of the 100 most influential people in the world. This year, however, the magazine has taken a different approach by featuring 13 leaders who are working towards creating a more equal world. These individuals have dedicated their lives to fighting for social justice, advocating for marginalized communities, and challenging the status quo. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed, and Time has rightfully recognized them as some of the most influential leaders of our time.

The annual list, which was first published in 1999, has always been a reflection of the current state of the world. In the past, it has featured influential figures from various fields such as politics, entertainment, and business. However, this year’s list has a special focus on leaders who are driving change and promoting equality in their respective fields.

One of the leaders featured on the list is Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani activist for female education and the youngest Nobel Prize laureate. Despite facing numerous challenges and threats, Malala has continued to be a vocal advocate for girls’ education and has inspired millions of people around the world. Her inclusion on the list is a testament to her unwavering determination and her impact on the fight for gender equality.

Another notable leader on the list is Tarana Burke, the founder of the #MeToo movement. What started as a hashtag on social media has now become a global movement against sexual harassment and assault. Burke’s work has given a voice to survivors and has sparked a much-needed conversation about the prevalence of sexual violence in our society. Her inclusion on the list is a recognition of her tireless efforts to create a world where everyone feels safe and respected.

The list also features leaders from the world of politics, including New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. Ardern has gained international praise for her compassionate and inclusive leadership style, particularly in her response to the Christchurch mosque shootings. She has also been a strong advocate for women’s rights and has implemented policies to promote gender equality in her country. Her presence on the list is a reminder that leaders can be both strong and empathetic, and that true leadership involves standing up for what is right.

In the business world, the list features the CEO of Microsoft, Satya Nadella. Under his leadership, the company has made significant strides in promoting diversity and inclusion, both within the company and in the tech industry as a whole. Nadella’s commitment to creating a more equal workplace has set an example for other companies to follow, and his inclusion on the list is a recognition of his efforts to drive change in the corporate world.

The list also includes leaders from the world of sports, such as Megan Rapinoe, the captain of the US women’s national soccer team. Rapinoe has used her platform as a professional athlete to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality. She has also been a vocal critic of the gender pay gap in sports and has been a driving force in the fight for equal pay for female athletes. Her inclusion on the list is a reminder that athletes can be more than just sports stars – they can also be powerful advocates for social change.

These are just a few of the remarkable leaders featured on this year’s Time 100 list. Each of them has made significant contributions towards creating a more equal world, and their work has inspired countless others to join the fight for social justice. Their inclusion on the list is a recognition of their impact and a call to action for others to follow in their footsteps.

As we continue to face challenges such as systemic racism, gender inequality, and discrimination, it is crucial to have leaders who are dedicated to creating a more just and equal world. The individuals featured on this year’s Time 100 list are shining examples of what can be achieved when we use our voices and platforms for the greater good. They serve as a reminder that change is possible, and that each of us has the power to make a difference.

In a world where there is still so much work to be done, it is heartening to see leaders who are actively working towards creating a more equal society. Their efforts give us hope for a better future, and their inclusion on the Time 100 list serves as a reminder that we must continue to push for progress and stand up for what is right. Let us celebrate these 13 leaders and their inspiring work, and let their stories motivate us to be agents of change in our own communities.

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