by The RWI Team
As the curtains fall on 2024, we are thrilled to present Raising Women Initiative’s 100 Women who shaped this
defining year. These are the trailblazers rewriting records in sports, amplifying long-overlooked stories in the arts,
revolutionising entire industries through technology, and demanding justice and equality in every corner of the globe. From Olympic gold medallists to pioneering doctors and cutting-edge entrepreneurs, each woman in our cover story holds a piece of the collective puzzle driving us toward a more inclusive world.
Whether they have spearheaded new laws, launched groundbreaking ventures, or sparked conversations that
provoke us to think bigger, their contributions unify one idea: women everywhere have the power to reshape history and inspire future generations.
This list is no mere celebration of titles or accolades; it is an ode to courage, creativity, and a willingness to transcend boundaries. We invite you to immerse yourself in these stories, discover the impact each woman has made, and join us in applauding the many paths they have illuminated for us all.
1.
Name: Masai Russell OLY
Country: United State
Field of Impact: Athletics
Profile: Masai Russell is an American field sprinter and hurdler, Russell ran her first sub-13s 100 m hurdles in placing second in her heat at the SEC Championships. She is the U.S. NCAA Record holder in the 100 m hurdles.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024 ,She won the gold medal at the 2024 Summer Olympics in the 100 m hurdles event and also signed up for the inaugural season of the Michael Johnson founded Grand Slam Track.
Why They Stand Out: Russell is a trailblazer in athletics, particularly in hurdling, where she is setting new standards for excellence, making her one of the best athletes globally.
2.
Name: Temilade Openiyi
Country: Nigeria
Field of Impact: Music
Profile: Tems is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer who has gained international recognition for her unique blend of Afrobeat and R&B. Her voice and music resonate with listeners worldwide, blending soulful melodies with powerful lyrics.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Tems became the first African singer to win a billboard women in music award. Her influence in the music industry and her ability to represent African talent on the global stage remained significant.
Why They Stand Out: Tems’ ability to merge Afrobeat with global sounds has earned her accolades, making her one of the most influential artists of her generation, representing the global reach of African music.
3.
Name: Zheng Qinwen
Country: China
Field of Impact: Athlete
Profile:Zheng Qinwen is a Chinese professional tennis player.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Zheng won the women’s singles gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, becoming the first Asian tennis player to win an Olympic singles gold medal.
Why They Stand Out: Zheng has said that she wants to inspire a new generation of tennis players to “dream big” and “enjoy the process”
4.
Name: Nila Ibrahimi
Country: Afghanistan
Field of Impact: Advocate for girl child Education
Profile: Nile is the Co- founder of Her Story Initiative
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, She won the International children’s peace Prize
Why They Stand Out: Since Nile was 14 and now 17 she has fighting for the education rights of all Afghan girls and women who are losing out on valuable schooling due to the discriminatory ban on their education.
5.
Name: Leah Sava Jeffries
Country: USA
Field of Impact: Acting and Youth Empowerment
Profile: An American actress known for empowering young women through screen visibility and mentorship.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Leah won an award for Outstanding Performance for her role as Annabeth in the series ‘PERCY JACKSON & THE OLYMPIANS’ at the 2024 NAACP Image Awards.
Why They Stand Out: Leah’s commitment to representation ensures that young girls see themselves as capable of success in entertainment
6.
Name: Tyla Laura Seethal
Country: South African
Field of Impact: Music Artist
Profile: Tyla, is a South African singer. Her musical style is characterised by a fusion of the pop and amapiano genres,she nicked named a “Queen of Popiano”.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Tyla was named the youngest African soloist to win a Grammy Award.she was honored by Billboard, and has also received BET and MTV Video Music .
Why They Stand Out:for her one-of-a-kind music, her journey to success, and how she represents a new era of talented South African artists of color.
7.
Name: Emily Jean “Emma” Stone
Country: America
Field of Impact: Actress
Profile: Emma Stone is an american actress and producer, she was once the World’s high paid actress named by Times Magazine.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Emma won the academy award for best actress in a Leading Role titled “POOR THINGS”
Why They Stand Out: Emma is known for her lively energy and talent for turning her unique personality into great performances.
8.
Name: Yaroslava Mahuchikh
Country: Ukrainian
Field of Impact: Athletics
Profile:Yaroslava Oleksiivna Mahuchikh is a Ukrainian high jumper and women’s high jump world record holder.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, She won the gold medal at the 2024 Summer Olympics.
Why They Stand Out: Mahuchikh is a symbol of national pride for Ukraine, promoting her country and its strength worldwide. She uses her platform to help her country by talking to the media and donating to help people.
9.
Name: Mrs. Nkechi Harry Ngonadi
Country: Nigerian
Field of Impact: Public speaker and Fashion
Profile: Mrs. Nkechi Harry Ngonadi is an entrepreneur, a certified public speaker, a certified marriage counsellor, a Kingdom influencer and CEO of the fashion brand NHN Couture.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Mrs. Nkem Successfully organized the NHN Women Network Annual Retreat, Conference, Gala, and Award in Doha, with the theme: “From Pain to Purpose”.
Why They Stand Out: Mrs. Nkechi uses her ever-evolving platform to educate, enrich and empower other women.
10.
Name: Zendaya
Country: USA
Field of Impact: Entertainment and Social Justice
Profile: Zendaya is an American actress, singer, and producer, celebrated for her versatility in both television and film. She is also known for her advocacy for racial equality and inclusion in the entertainment industry.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Zendaya received the Spotlight Tribute award at the 2024 Gotham Awards for her performance as Tashi Duncan in the tennis-themed movie titled: Challengers
Why They Stand Out: Zendaya uses her platform to not only excel in entertainment but also to raise her voice for underrepresented communities, becoming a powerful advocate for social change.
11.
Name: Dr. Özlem Türeci
Country: Germany
Field of Impact: Science and Medicine
Profile: Dr. Özlem Türeci is a German scientist and one of the key figures behind the development of the mRNA COVID-19 vaccine as co-founder of BioNTech. Her work has been instrumental in revolutionizing the field of immunology and vaccine development.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Dr. Türeci continued to make breakthroughs in mRNA technology, working on expanding the use of mRNA for treatments beyond COVID-19, including for cancer and other diseases.
Why They Stand Out: Dr. Türeci’s groundbreaking work in vaccine development has saved millions of lives and continues to shape the future of medicine.
12.
Name: Malala Yousafzai
Country: Pakistan
Field of Impact: Education and Advocacy
Profile: Malala Yousafzai is a Pakistani education advocate and the youngest-ever Nobel Prize laureate. Her advocacy for girls’ education in regions where women and girls face significant barriers has made her a global symbol of resilience and empowerment.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Malala continue to promote girls’ education, with several initiatives like Malala funds aimed at providing scholarships and educational opportunities for girls in conflict zones.
Why They Stand Out: Malala’s tireless fight for girls’ education in areas of conflict and her continued advocacy in 2024 inspire millions to support equal educational opportunities for all girls.
13.
Name: María Zamora
Country: Spain
Field of Impact: Film Producer
Profile: María Zamora is a Spanish film producer and founding partner of Avalon PC
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, María won the National Cinematography Award at the 72nd San Sebastian Festival for her support of emerging and female filmmakers over the course of her career.
Why They Stand Out: María Zamora is a film producer and production manager known for her work on films that give a voice to emerging female directors.
14.
Name: Oluwaseun Ayodeji Osowobi
Country: Nigeria
Field of Impact: Social Impact and Advocate
Profile: Oluwaseun is the Founder of Stand to End Rape ( STER) and an advocates for survivors of sexual violence.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Oluwaseun’s Stand to End Rape Initiative launched a groundbreaking policy report on sexual violence prevention in Africa.
Why They Stand Out:Her advocacy influenced new protective legislation in Nigeria, marking milestone in her fight for gender justice.
15.
Name: Dr. solange swiri tumasang
Country: Cameroon
Field of Impact: Education and Social Entrepreneur
Profile:Founder and General Co-ordinator of NEWOLEC
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Dr. Solange coordinated 50 women leaders who mentored young girls in the community on career choices, leadership, personal and professional development, entrepreneurship and community engagement
Why They Stand Out: Through her network Solange has impacted over 500 young girls with empowerment initiatives and mentorship programmes.
16.
Name: Haben Girma
Country: USA/Eritrea
Field of Impact: Disability Rights Advocacy
Profile: A human right lawyer and advocate for disability justice.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Haben was appointed to world health organization commission on social connection to develop solutions to address social isolation and loneliness.
Why They Stand Out: Haben’s advocacy ensures technology becomes more inclusive for all.
17.
Name: Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
Country: Nigeria
Field of Impact: International Development, Economics
Profile: Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala was reappointed as Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and received an honorary degree from the University of Oxford.
Why They Stand Out: Ngozi’s leadership at the WTO has reshaped global trade policies for the betterment of developing nations. Ngozi was re-elected to office unopposed.
18.
Name: Lupita Nyong’o
Country: Kenya
Field of Impact: Acting, Advocacy
Profile: Actress and advocate for women and girls’ rights.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Lupita Nyong’o received the CinemaCon Star of the Year Award and was the first African jury president at the Berlin Film Festival.
Why They Stand Out: Lupita leverages her international platform to advocate for gender equality and mental health awareness.
19.
Name: Dr. Jumoke Oduwole
Country: Nigeria
Field of Impact: Trade and Investment, International Law, Economic Development
Profile: Dr. Jumoke Oduwole is a distinguished Nigerian leader with expertise in international law, economic development, and governance. She has served in influential roles, such as Vice President on the executive board of the Africa Association of International Law (AAIL) and as a trustee of the Mandela Institute for Development Studies. Dr. Oduwole has also held leadership positions at Ecobank Nigeria Plc and Positive Action for Treatment Access (PATA).
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Dr. Oduwole was appointed as Nigeria’s Minister of Trade and Investment, this is as a result of the reflection of her leadership skills and expertise in policy development and business.
Why They Stand Out: Dr. Oduwole stands out for her exceptional leadership in economic development, international law, and her ability to bridge the gap between governance and the private sector, positioning her to make a significant impact on Nigeria’s trade and investment landscape.
20.
Name: Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
Country: Liberia
Field of Impact: Politics, Advocacy
Profile: Former President of Liberia and global advocate for women in leadership.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Ellen focused on empowering women leaders through Amujae Initiative which aims at transformative leadership development experiences, EJS fuel their ambition, sharpen their skills, and connect them with a network that spans generations.
Why They Stand Out: Ellen’s continued advocacy for women’s leadership and development across Africa is transforming political landscapes.
21.
Name: Rihanna
Country: Barbados
Field of Impact: Music, Fashion, Entrepreneurship
Profile: Singer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist.
Achievements in 2024: Expanded her Fenty empire and launched global initiatives for women’s empowerment.
Why They Stand Out: Rihanna continues to redefine beauty standards and advocate for women’s independence.
22.
Name: Stella Okoli
Country: Nigeria
Field of Impact: Healthcare, Entrepreneurship
Profile: Founder and CEO of Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
Achievements in 2024:In 2024, Dr. Stella was awarded the Extraordinary Women Advancing health-care (EWAH) award to recognise her life time work.
Why They Stand Out: Stella’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to healthcare have positively impacted African communities.
23.
Name: Serena Williams
Country: USA
Field of Impact: Tennis, Entrepreneurship
Profile: One of the greatest athletes in history, now a venture capitalist.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Serena was named Glamour’s Global Woman of the year, despite her retirement from Tennis her gaze is still set on new kind of imternational Domination.
Why They Stand Out: Serena’s business ventures and mentorship programs are empowering the next generation of women leaders.
24.
Name: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Country: Nigeria
Field of Impact: Literature, Feminism
Profile: Renowned author and feminist advocate.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, she published a new book titled Feminist Manifesto addressing women’s rights and global inequalities.
Why They Stand Out: Chimamanda continues to inspire global conversations on gender equality and African identity.
25.
Name: Stacey Abrams
Country: USA
Field of Impact: Politics, Voting Rights
Profile: Advocate for voting rights and political engagement in the U.S.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Stacey kicked of a series of fireside chats where she leverage her political experience,connections and Opinions to engage college students in the 2024 U.S presidential election which played a pivotal role in increasing voter turnout among underrepresented communities.
Why They Stand Out: Stacey’s work ensures marginalized communities are given a voice in political processes.
26.
Name: Autumn Peltier
Country: Canada (Anishinaabe Nation)
Field of Impact: Environmental Activism
Profile: A youth water activist.
Achievements in 2024: Advocated for Indigenous water rights and the protection of natural resources.
Why They Stand Out: Autumn’s leadership ensures Indigenous voices are central to climate action.
27.
Name: Amina J. Mohammed
Country: Nigeria
Field of Impact: Sustainable Development, Politics
Profile: Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations and chair of the United Nations Sustainable Development.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Amina called for a transformation in education where she addressed the high level of education event organised by EU and declared it a turning point for education.
Why They Stand Out: Amina’s leadership within the UN has shaped global policies focused on achieving the SDGs.
28.
Name: Winona LaDuke
Country: USA (Ojibwe)
Field of Impact: Environmental and Indigenous Rights Advocacy
Profile: A Native American environmental activist and author.
Achievements in 2024: Focused on renewable energy projects to benefit Native American communities.
Why They Stand Out: Winona is a fierce advocate for sustainable development in Indigenous communities.
29.
Name: Connie Ferguson
Country: South African
Field of Impact: Health and Wellness
Profile: An Actress,Producer and a Fitness Role Model
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Connie Brands launched a new era of confidence at the 2024 Professional Beauty show and SASMA Awards.
Why They Stand Out: Connie uses her Brands to dismantle healthcare challenges affecting South African Women due to climate.
30.
Name: Oladiwura Oladepo
Country: Nigeria
Field of Impact: Technology and Social Impact
Profile: Founder of Tech4Dev, driving tech initiatives that address social challenges and bridge digital gaps.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Oladiwura Implemented programs that train women and youth in digital literacy and tech skills.
Why They Stand Out: Oladiwura empowers women with technology, ensuring inclusion and access for communities that need it most.
31.
Name: Alice Wong
Country: USA
Field of Impact: Disability Advocacy, Media
Profile: A disability rights activist and founder of the Disability Visibility Project.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Alice received MacArthur fellowship award for work of increasing the visibility and understanding of people with disabilities .
Why They Stand Out: Alice’s voice is amplifying disability rights and creating a space for disabled people in mainstream media.
32.
Name: Priya Lakhani
Country: UK
Field of Impact: Artificial Intelligence, Technology
Profile: Founder of a leading AI company using technology for social good.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Priya developed an AI tools that is transforming the education sector and global healthcare.
Why They Stand Out: Priya’s innovation bridges technology and social impact to uplift underserved communities.
33.
Name: Dr. May Ikeora
Country: Nigeria
Field of Impact: Social Impact & Advocacy
Profile: A Lawyer, CEO of L’Avyanna and Executive Director of Raising Women Initiative.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Dr. May Organized a summit titled: The Raising Girls Summit 3rd Edition.
Why They Stand Out: Dr. May is Successfully empowering girls and Women into Future Leaders and to Build Strong Foundations.
34.
Name: Dr. Sylvia Earle
Country: USA
Field of Impact: Marine Biology, Environmental Advocacy
Profile: A pioneer marine biologist and oceanographer.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Dr. Sylvia Earle received the Ken Burns American Heritage Prize and was honored with the NMHS Distinguished Service Award.
Why They Stand Out: Dr. Earle’s lifetime of ocean exploration and advocacy is vital to protecting our planet’s marine ecosystems.
35.
Name: Bridget Mangwandi
Country: South Africa
Field of Impact: Culinary Arts
Profile: Renowned South African chef who elevates African cuisine on the global stage while celebrating cultural roots.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, BridgetWon international culinary awards and opened community kitchens to support underprivileged youth.
Why They Stand Out: Bridget celebrates African heritage through food, creating a platform for cultural and social empowerment.
36.
Name: Olamide Olowe
Country: Nigeria
Field of Impact: Entrepreneurship, Beauty Industry
Profile: Founder of Topicals, a skincare brand focused on mental health awareness.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Olamide became the first youngest black woman to raise $2 Million funding in venture at 26.
Why They Stand Out: Olamide’s unique combination of skincare and mental health advocacy makes her a standout in the beauty industry.
37.
Name: Samia Suluhu Hassan
Country: Tanzania
Field of Impact: Politics
Profile: President of Tanzania, the first woman to hold this office.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Samia strides in empowering women in Tanzania by creating policies to increase women’s participation in leadership roles.
Why They Stand Out: Samia has become a trailblazer in Tanzanian politics, breaking gender barriers and working towards a more inclusive political environment.
38.
Name: Yvonne Chaka Chaka
Country: South Africa
Field of Impact: Music, Humanitarian Work
Profile: South African singer and humanitarian.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Yvonne was the main honoree at the 2024 Legends and Legacy Ball Africa Music Awards, which took place in Sandton, Johannesburg. She was recognized for her promotion of African music and received a 24-carat gold gong, a pure-cut gold brooch, and a traditional garment from Ghana.
Why They Stand Out: Yvonne is renowned for her music and for using her fame to drive major humanitarian efforts, especially in child health.
39.
Name: Nneka Ogwumike
Country: Nigeria (US-based)
Field of Impact: Sports, Advocacy
Profile: WNBA star and activist.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Nneka took over leadership of the non-profit voting rights organization, She focused on women’s reproductive rights and encouraged people to vote.
Why They Stand Out: Nneka’s impact goes beyond the basketball court, where she uses her platform for social good, focusing on education for girls.
40.
Name: Graça Machel
Country: Mozambique
Field of Impact: Human Rights, Education
Profile: Former First Lady of Mozambique and South Africa, global advocate for children’s rights and education.
Achievements in 2024: In 2024, Graca received a Forbes Woman Africa Lifetime Achievement Award in Johannesburg for her work promoting equitable rights and improving lives.
Why They Stand Out: Graça’s lifelong commitment to children’s rights and women’s empowerment continues to shape policies across Africa.
41.
Name: Eniola Shokunb
Field of Impact: STEM
Profile: Eniola is a young innovator who transformed a fifth-grade assignment at Commodore MacDonough STEM Academy into a groundbreaking public health solution.
Achievement in 2024: In 2024, Eniola received $11.5M Funding after Inventing a Virus killing air fliter for classrooms.
