Across the world, women leaders are stepping into roles of immense responsibility, breaking stereotypes, and charting new paths in politics and policymaking. From driving conversations on climate action to leading nations through challenging times, these trailblazers are reshaping the narrative around leadership.
Did you know there are twenty-nine countries with female leaders? Women are stepping up.
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In this article, we spotlight remarkable women who are not just leading but transforming the political landscape. Their stories of courage, innovation, and perseverance remind us that leadership knows no gender—and that when women rise, entire communities thrive.
We spotlight four women leaders from different continents across the world who have transformed their nations or communities, tackling global issues like climate change, education, and health, and utilizing unique leadership styles that prioritize empathy, collaboration, and innovation, while creating inspirational lessons for young girls aspiring to leadership.
Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, Mexico’s First Female President
Last week, we were introduced to Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, Mexico’s first female president, who made headlines after a public disagreement with President Trump over conflicting accounts of a recent phone conversation. (Add link to article here)
But who exactly is Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo? Until recently, she may not have been on your radar—but she’s far from new to the spotlight. Pardo is the 66th president of Mexico and the first woman to hold this office, a role she assumed in October 2024. Her ascent marks a transformative moment in Mexican and global politics.
According to Wikipedia, Sheinbaum, 62, is a scientist by training—like her parents—earning a Doctor of Philosophy in energy engineering from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). She has authored over 100 academic articles and two books on energy, the environment, and sustainable development. As a contributor to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, her work was integral to the body’s Nobel Peace Prize win. In 2018, BBC named her one of its 100 Women.
Yes, a scientist and a climate advocate!
Born in Mexico City, Pardo comes from a lineage that reflects resilience and diversity. Her paternal grandparents immigrated from Lithuania, while her maternal grandparents fled Bulgaria during the Holocaust. As Mexico’s first Jewish president and its first female leader, she carries a legacy of many “firsts.”
She served as secretary of the environment ofMexico City from 2000 to 2006 and mayor of Tlalpan from 2015 to 2017. She also served as mayor of Mexico City from 2018 to 2023.
Pardo’s impact on Mexico City during her time as mayor was substantial. She spearheaded efforts to combat organized crime, improve education, address gender violence, and prioritize environmental sustainability. Notably, her scientific expertise informed her effective handling of the city’s pandemic response.
Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo is not just breaking glass ceilings—she’s charting a course for inclusive, science-driven governance in Mexico and setting an example for leaders worldwide.
Mia Mottley: The Climate Warrior from the Caribbean
Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley has emerged as a fierce advocate for climate justice on the global stage. With her powerful speeches at international forums, including the United Nations and COP conferences, she has put the needs of small island nations front and center.
Mottley has consistently called out the inequities of climate change, arguing that countries contributing the least to global warming bear its greatest burdens. Her leadership extends beyond rhetoric; under her tenure, Barbados has implemented ambitious renewable energy goals, aiming to become fossil fuel-free by 2030.
Her pragmatic yet passionate approach has inspired leaders across the globe, proving that small nations can have a mighty voice in global policymaking.
Mottley has served as the eighth prime minister of Barbados since 2018, winning more than 70 per cent of the popular vote and all 30 seats in the legislature, and as Leader of the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) since 2008. She is the first woman to hold either position, and Barbados’ first prime minister under its republican system (since 2001), following constitutional changes she introduced that abolished the country’s constitutional monarchy with Britain.
Mottley entered politics in 1991, and from 1994 to 2008, she held a succession of ministerial portfolios including the post of Attorney-General of Barbados, the first woman to be appointed as such.
Jacinda Ardern: Leading with Empathy in Crisis
New Zealand’s former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern was the third woman prime minister of New Zealand, the second youngest in the country’s history, who demonstrated the power of empathy in leadership during her tenure. She captured the world’s attention in 2019 after the Christchurch mosque shootings, responding with compassion and decisive action by implementing stricter gun control laws.
In a new era and with a distinctly modern approach, Ardern has become a key architect of New Zealand’s evolving national identity. She expanded upon the country’s well-established reputation as a principled and ethical soft power, infusing it with her personal vision. Today, it is hard to think of New Zealand without reflecting on the core values that defined Ardern’s leadership: kindness, empathy, and solidarity.
Ardern also led her nation through the COVID-19 pandemic, prioritizing public health with transparent communication and science-driven policies. Her ability to connect with citizens while maintaining strong leadership earned her global praise and made her a role model for empathetic governance.
Despite stepping down from her role in early 2023 due to a desire to spend more time with her partner and daughter. Ardern’s legacy continues to inspire a generation of leaders who prioritize humanity and inclusivity in governance.
Samia Suluhu Hassan: Breaking Ground in East Africa
As Tanzania’s first female president, Samia Suluhu Hassan has not only shattered glass ceilings but has also set a new tone for leadership in the East African nation. Since assuming office in 2021, she has focused on rebuilding Tanzania’s global relationships, encouraging foreign investment, and promoting economic reforms.
Known widely as Mama Samia, Hassan met the two leading figures of the opposition party Chadema, Tundu Lissu (who was living in exile) and Freeman Mbowe(who was incarcerated) under former President. Terrorism charges against Mbowe were dropped and he has since been released. Hassan put the brakes on a fast descent into total authoritarianism, while returning the country to the pre-2015 era, suggesting she wants to make changes.
Her leadership style, which emphasizes dialogue and collaboration, has been pivotal in shifting Tanzania’s political climate toward openness and inclusivity. In addition to championing development, she has prioritized health initiatives, including efforts to improve maternal and child health across the country.
What Can We Learn from These Women?
These leaders exemplify a new paradigm of governance that values inclusion, resilience, and bold action. Their ability to navigate crises, connect with citizens, and champion global issues highlights the importance of diverse perspectives in leadership.
As more women ascend to positions of power worldwide, they bring with them a fresh approach to problem-solving—one that acknowledges the complexities of modern challenges while centering humanity and sustainability.
By celebrating and learning from their journeys, we not only recognize their achievements but also inspire the next generation of female leaders to rise, innovate, and break barriers in their own ways.
