Ranking of the Most Influential Women Globally in 2025
Top 10 Most Influential Women Shaping the World in 2025
These awe-inspiring women have become iconic figures, reshaping the socio-political and economic landscape on a global scale. Their relentless determination, innovative thinking, and unwavering vision have left an indelible mark on the current world. They've demolished barriers, challenged the status quo, and paved the way for future generations. Here's a look at the top 10 game-changers making waves in 2025:
1. Abigail Johnson
Abigail Johnson is a highly influential American businesswoman, known for her leadership in the financial sector. As the Chairman and CEO of one of the world's largest and most trusted investment management and financial services firms, Fidelity Investments, her strategic leadership has expanded the company's reach across the globe and solidified its position as a market leader.
2. Mary Barra
Mary Barra, the Chair and CEO of General Motors, has redefined the automotive industry with her innovative approach to sustainable transportation andDigital Transformation in Automobiles. Under her guidance, GM has transformed into a leader in the global auto industry, with a strong emphasis on technology, innovation, and the future of transportation.
3. Christine Lagarde
Christine Lagarde, a French economist and lawyer, has become a beacon in global finance. As the President of the European Central Bank, she plays a critical role in formulating economic policies for the Eurozone. Lagarde's extensive experience and influential stance within the international finance community have secured her a place among the most powerful women in the world.
4. Safra Catz
Safra Catz, CEO of Oracle Corporation, demonstrates exceptional strategic thinking and technical acumen. During her tenure at Oracle, Catz has been instrumental in driving the company's expansion, particularly in the field of cloud computing and Artificial Intelligence. Her leadership and experience have solidified her status as a significant player in the technology industry.
5. Susan Wojcicki
Susan Wojcicki, ex-CEO of YouTube, has cemented her place as a trailblazer in the tech sector. Known for her work at Google – as Senior Vice President of Advertising & Commerce, where she played a crucial role in the creation of AdSense and the acquisition of YouTube – Wojcicki championed diversity, innovation, and the use of technology to empower people worldwide.
6. Angela Merkel
Angela Merkel, the former German Chancellor, made history as the first female leader in Germany. During her reign, Merkel was widely regarded as one of the most influential leaders in the world, recognized for her dedication to the European Union, stability, and pragmatic policy-making. Her leadership played a pivotal role in navigating several crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the migrant crisis.
7. Ginni Rometty
As the ex-CEO of IBM, Ginni Rometty transformed the technology giant into a leader in cloud computing, AI, and data analytics. Her forward-thinking strategies and focus on innovation helped IBM make strategic acquisitions like Red Hat, and transition from traditional IT services to cutting-edge technology. Rometty championed diversity and was a beloved figure in the tech community.
8. Indra Nooyi
Indra Nooyi, ex-CEO of PepsiCo, demonstrated exceptional leadership skills while steering the company through a period of rapid change. Her innovative approach to catering to evolving customer tastes and focusing on healthier food and drinks transformed PepsiCo's product offerings and propelled the company's growth in developing markets.
9. Jane Fraser
Jane Fraser, CEO of Citigroup, made history as the first woman to run a major Wall Street bank. During her tenure, Fraser was instrumental in modernizing Citigroup's operations, streamlining its processes, and advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion. She is admired for her expertise in banking and risk management, making her a well-respected leader within the industry.
10. Melinda Gates
Melinda Gates, co-founder of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, has dedicated her life to improving the lives of people around the world. Through her philanthropic ventures, Gates focuses on global health, education, and gender equity initiatives, particularly for marginalized communities. She is a leading voice for social justice, women's empowerment, and gender equality.
These outstanding leaders continue to inspire and challenge the status quo, making a lasting impact on the world for generations to come.
- Abigail Johnson's prowess in the financial sector and her strategic leadership at Fidelity Investments have driven the company's advancements in data analytics, aiding in the expansion of the business on a global scale.
- As the President of the European Central Bank, Christine Lagarde employs her extensive knowledge of finance and economics to formulate policies that leverage digital transformation, enabling the Eurozone to stay competitive in an increasingly interconnected world.