Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum has become the first woman to lead the nation since its independence in 200 years. With a combined economic power of $33 trillion, over 1 billion people are impacted by the world’s top 100 most powerful women. Despite declining public confidence in female leadership, many of these women continue to defy trends.
Sheinbaum, who moved up two spots on the Forbes list to No. 4, is the first woman to preside over Mexico since its independence. She emphasized the need for more women in power during her inauguration speech, saying “It is time for women.”
Other women making significant strides include Malina Ngai, who took over as CEO of AS Watson and debuted on the list at No. 75. Melinda French Gates has pledged $1 billion to advance women’s power globally, moving up two spots to No. 8.
The 2024 Power List was determined by four main metrics: money, media, impact, and spheres of influence. The result is a collective economic power that stands as a rebuttal to those questioning a woman’s ability to wield power.
Nobel Peace Laureate Ellen Johnson Sirleaf said, “Women deserve the equity and equal opportunity because they’ve already earned it.” As these powerful women continue to drive change, their leadership is a testament to their abilities.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/maggiemcgrath/2024/12/11/how-the-women-on-the-forbes-power-list-defined-2024