Normally, like Donald Trump can't help but bring up Rosie O'Donell, I can't help but write a politically geared article. Especially after the recent events that have transpired I was so tempted, but I decided it was time to focus on more positive things and what's more positive than a bunch of women changing the world? There are so many women to choose from, but I decided on this group of influential ladies.
1. Hillary Clinton
The possible next female president of the United States, Hillary has an incredible amount of influence. She has been an influential figure in politics for years. While many may have mixed feelings or even negative feelings towards Clinton, one cannot deny the influence she holds. She is an outspoken woman and has reached an enormous amount of success. Whether people like it or not, she is one of the most influential women in the United States right now.
2. Sheryl Sandberg
As the COO of Facebook, this self-made billionaire has made Forbes "The World's 100 Most Powerful Women" issue ranking in seventh place. As the author of the wildly popular book "Lean In", she started a nonprofit under the same name which aims to support women in the workplace and women’s empowerment groups. In 2015, she donated $31 million in Facebook stocks. She has incredible influence and she uses it to empower other women. She is a great example of what one can achieve with hard work and determination.
3. Jaha Dukureh
Many may not recognize this name, but Jaha is a Gambian activist and leader in the fight to end female genital mutilation. According to the World Health Organization, there is an estimated 200 million girls and women today that have been subjected to this practice. Even worse, 3 million girls are currently at risk to undergo this practice as well. As a victim herself, she is a leader in the movement to end this barbaric practice. She focuses on creating awareness in the United States. She was even noticed by the Obama Administration after her petition reached over 200,000 signatures. Which in turn prompted them to announce that they would commission a report into studying this problem. Through her bravery, she has undoubtedly helped a countless number of women.
4. Melinda Gates
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is well-known for their generosity and commitment to furthering global development. As the largest private foundation in the world, Melinda’s work has had an enormous impact. Not only has she aided in helping others through this organization, but her work has also prompted other donors and leaders in the philanthropic world to join her. The money that she and her husband have given to their cause is impressive, but what makes her influential is her drive and passion for helping others.
5. Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Elena Kagan, Sonia Sotomayor
These women make up one-third of the justices on the supreme court. Ginsburg was the second woman to join the high court followed by Sotomayor and Kagan. What these women have accomplished is not only admirable but awe-inspiring. They all had to fight against gender disparities, especially Ginsburg who was denied a clerk position because of her gender. These women are influential because not only do they help decide and rule on the laws of the land, but they have also proved that no matter your gender you can accomplish great things.
