From science and literature to activism, architecture and philanthropy, these 10 women reshaped societies through courage, discovery and compassion, leaving legacies that still influence how we learn, heal and lead.
Sudha Murty
Sudha Murty is an inspiring woman who has changed the world through her dedication to education, social service and empowering the underprivileged. As an author and philanthropist, she has worked with the Infosys Foundation to promote literacy and compassion.
Dorothea Dix
Dorothea Dix was a pioneering advocate whose efforts transformed mental health care. Her dedication led to the creation of many mental hospitals and increased awareness of mental health issues. Dix challenged stigma and inspired future generations to fight for humane treatment and social reform.
Safeya Kanoo
Safeya Kanoo was a pioneering Bahraini woman in art and philanthropy. She began her creative career at 17 and became known for blending traditional and modern styles. Safeya also supported many charitable projects, including wards at Muharraq Hospital, the Salman Bin Khalil Kanoo Ward for the elderly, and the Abdulla Khalil Kanoo Paediatric Oncology Ward at Salmaniya Medical Complex. She helped establish the Safeya Ali Kanoo Mosque in Tubli and the Arts and Handcrafts Centre in Bu Ghazal.
Jane Goodall
Jane Goodall was a pioneering researcher whose work with wild chimpanzees in Tanzania transformed our understanding of primates. Beyond science, she is a passionate advocate for conservation and animal welfare, inspiring many to protect the environment.
Marie Curie
Marie Curie was a pioneering scientist who transformed the world with her work on radioactivity. As the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the only person to win in two scientific fields, her research advanced atomic science and led to medical breakthroughs in cancer treatment. Her dedication broke barriers in a male-dominated field and inspired many women to pursue science. Her legacy remains a symbol of perseverance and impact.
Helen B. Taussig
Helen B. Taussig, a pioneer in paediatric cardiology, changed the world through her work on congenital heart defects. Her dedication led to surgical breakthroughs that saved many lives. As the founder of modern paediatric cardiology, her innovations advanced medicine and brought hope to children and families.
Miriam Makeba
Miriam Makeba, affectionately known as “Mama Africa,” changed the world with her powerful voice and commitment to justice. As a singer and activist, she highlighted South Africa’s apartheid struggles, which inspired global awareness. Despite exile and hardships, her courage made her an icon of resilience and hope.
Katsuko Saruhashi
Katsuko Saruhashi, a pioneering scientist, transformed environmental science with her work on nuclear test effects. She invented the Saruhashi thermometer, which improved measurement of seawater carbon dioxide and advanced climate change research. Saruhashi also challenged gender barriers in a male-dominated field, becoming a source of inspiration for women in science.
Zaha Hadid
Zaha Hadid was a pioneering architect whose innovative, futuristic designs reshaped modern architecture. As the first woman to win the Pritzker Prize, her bold structures challenged norms and inspired many women to enter the field. She combined art and science to create iconic buildings that transformed city skylines worldwide.
Maya Angelou
Maya Angelou’s impact reflects her courage, resilience and dedication to justice. As a poet, author and activist, she challenged injustice and inspired change and made her a symbol of hope worldwide. Her autobiography “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” revealed her struggles and triumphs. Her civil rights work with figures like Dr Martin Luther King Jr helped advance equality.
