The Most Influential Women of 2019
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Vote up the women who had the biggest impact in 2019.
- 1Writer, LawyerMichelle Obama, born Michelle LaVaughn Robinson on January 17, 1964, in Chicago, Illinois, set a precedent as the first African-American First Lady of the United States. Raised in a close-knit family on the South Side of Chicago, she excelled academically, going on to earn her undergraduate degree at Princeton University and later, a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School. Her professional journey began with a position at Sidley Austin, a high-profile law firm in Chicago, where she met future President Barack Obama. Michelle's commitment to public service is evident through her career trajectory. After a brief stint at the law firm, she transitioned into roles that allowed her to focus on community outreach and advocacy. She served as an assistant commissioner of planning and development for the City of Chicago, after which she became the founding executive director of the Chicago chapter of Public Allies, a non-profit leadership training program. Later, she held executive positions at the University of Chicago and the University of Chicago Hospitals. As First Lady, from 2009 to 2017, Michelle Obama left a significant impact on various social issues. She launched several initiatives aimed at improving health and education among children, including the "Let's Move!" campaign to combat childhood obesity, and the "Reach Higher" initiative to inspire students to pursue higher education. She also co-founded the "Joining Forces" program with Dr. Jill Biden, providing support to service members, veterans, and their families. In addition to her public service endeavors, Michelle Obama has authored two books: her memoir, Becoming, and a journal, Becoming: A Guided Journal for Discovering Your Voice, both of which have been widely acclaimed.
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Christina Koch
AstronautChristina Hammock Koch (born January 29, 1979) is an American engineer and NASA astronaut of the class of 2013. She received Bachelor of Science degrees in Electrical Engineering and Physics, and a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from North Carolina State University. She also did advanced study while working for the Goddard Space Flight Center. Just before becoming an astronaut, she served with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, as Station Chief for American Samoa. On March 14, 2019, she launched to the International Space Station as a Flight Engineer on Expedition 59, 60 and 61. On October 18, 2019, Koch and Jessica Meir were the first women to participate in an all-female spacewalk.
- 3Researcher, AstronautJessica Ulrika Meir is Assistant Professor of Anesthesia at Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, following postdoctoral research in comparative physiology at the University of British Columbia. She has studied the diving physiology and behavior of emperor penguins in Antarctica, and the physiology of bar-headed geese, which are able to migrate over the Himalayas. In 2000, Meir graduated with a Master of Space Studies from the International Space University in Strasbourg, France. In September 2002, Meir served as an aquanaut on the NASA Extreme Environment Mission Operations 4 crew. In June 2013 she was named an astronaut candidate by NASA, becoming one of the eight members of NASA Astronaut Group 21. She is from Caribou, Maine.
- 4QueenElizabeth II, born on April 21, 1926, in London as Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor, ascended to the throne in 1952 and has since become one of the most recognized monarchs in British history. She was the first child of the Duke and Duchess of York, later known as King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (the Queen Mother). At her birth, no one expected Elizabeth would become queen, yet fate intervened when her uncle, King Edward VIII, abdicated the throne in 1936, thrusting her father into the role and subsequently positioning Elizabeth as the heir presumptive. A significant chapter in Elizabeth's life began during World War II, when she joined the Auxiliary Territorial Service at the age of 18, training as a driver and mechanic. This experience not only honed her resilience but also brought her closer to the people she would one day rule. In 1947, she married Philip Mountbatten, Duke of Edinburgh, in a union that would last over seven decades until his death in 2021. Their marriage saw the birth of four children: Charles, Anne, Andrew, and Edward. Elizabeth's reign, which began on February 6, 1952, following the death of her father, has been marked by significant changes both within Britain and globally. She has navigated the decolonization of Africa and the Caribbean, the acceleration of devolution in the United Kingdom, and numerous changes in public sentiments towards the monarchy. Her astute handling of these shifts underscores her commitment to her role and her adaptability as a leader. In 2015, she became the longest-reigning British monarch and the world's oldest reigning monarch. Despite the demands and pressures of her position, Elizabeth II has remained a symbol of continuity and tradition, demonstrating an unwavering dedication to her country and her role as queen. She passed away at the age of 96 on September 8, 2022, with Charles III as her successor.
- 5Television presenter, Comedian, Television producerBorn in Metairie, Louisiana in 1958, Ellen DeGeneres began her career as a stand-up comedian in the early 1980s, performing at small clubs and coffeehouses before eventually breaking into the mainstream. Her unique brand of humor, characterized by observational comedy and self-deprecating wit, quickly gained traction and led to her first big break in 1986 when she was invited to perform on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. This appearance catapulted DeGeneres into the national spotlight, marking the start of a long and successful career in comedy. In 1994, DeGeneres took her talent to television with the launch of her sitcom, Ellen. The show was a critical and commercial success, earning numerous accolades and becoming one of the highest-rated programs on ABC. However, it was in 1997 that DeGeneres made history: in a groundbreaking episode of the show, her character came out as gay, making Ellen the first prime-time sitcom to feature an openly gay leading character. This event mirrored DeGeneres' own life, as she publicly came out as gay around the same time. DeGeneres' influence extends beyond comedy. In 2003, she ventured into daytime television with The Ellen DeGeneres Show, which quickly became one of the most popular talk shows in America. Over its run, the show has won multiple Daytime Emmy Awards and has been lauded for its positive depiction of LGBTQ+ individuals. Additionally, DeGeneres has used her platform to advocate for various charitable causes, including animal rights and disaster relief.
- 6Businessperson, Journalist, Television producerOprah Winfrey, a name synonymous with inspiration and success, was born on January 29, 1954, in Kosciusko, Mississippi. Raised in impoverished conditions by her teen mother, she faced numerous hardships during her early years. Nevertheless, she turned the adversities into stepping stones for success. As a child, Winfrey found solace in the power of words and developed a deep passion for public speaking. This love for communication led her to secure a full scholarship to Tennessee State University, where she studied communications. Winfrey's career took off when she began working at a local radio station while still in high school. Her natural talent for connecting with people soon caught the attention of television producers. She joined a Chicago-based morning show, AM Chicago, in 1984. Displaying her unique ability to blend empathy with entertainment, she transformed the low-rated show into the highest-rated talk show in Chicago within months. This paved the way for what would later become The Oprah Winfrey Show. The show, which ran from 1986 to 2011, broke records and set new standards in the world of television talk shows. Beyond her television career, Winfrey is known for her philanthropic efforts and her role as a powerful influencer. She has donated millions to various causes, including education and disaster relief. In 2007, she opened the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa, embodying her belief in education as a tool for change. Moreover, her endorsement power, often termed "The Oprah Effect", has boosted the success of numerous products and books, underlining her significant influence in popular culture. Oprah Winfrey's life journey, from her humble beginnings to becoming a global icon, serves as a testament to her resilience, ambition, and enormous heart.
- 7Model, ActorEmma Watson, known for her exemplary talent and commitment to social activism, is one of the most influential figures in contemporary cinema. Watson was born on April 15, 1990, in Paris, France but raised in England from the age of five onward after her parents' divorce. Her early interest in acting led her to train at the Oxford branch of Stagecoach Theatre Arts where she honed her skills. Watson's breakthrough came at a young age when she was cast as Hermione Granger in J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter film series. This role catapulted her into international fame and earned her several accolades for a performance that spanned all eight films from 2001 until 2011. Outside of Harry Potter, Watson has demonstrated versatility taking on roles across genres including period dramas like Little Women, thrillers such as The Bling Ring, and fairy-tale fantasies exemplified by Disney's live-action adaptation of Beauty and The Beast. Apart from acting, Emma Watson has been equally passionate about social issues particularly gender equality which led to an appointment as UN Women Goodwill Ambassador in July 2014. She launched the HeForShe campaign advocating for men's involvement towards achieving gender equality worldwide later that year - an initiative that gained global attention and praise.
- 8Judge, Jurist, LawyerRuth Bader Ginsburg (March 15, 1933-September 18, 2020) was an American lawyer and jurist who was an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Ginsburg was appointed by President Bill Clinton and took the oath of office on August 10, 1993. She was the second female justice (after Sandra Day O'Connor) of four to be confirmed to the court (along with Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan, who are still serving). Ginsburg spent a considerable part of her legal career as an advocate for the advancement of gender equality and women's rights, winning multiple victories arguing before the Supreme Court. She advocated as a volunteer lawyer for the American Civil Liberties Union and was a member of its board of directors and one of its general counsels in the 1970s. Ginsburg has received attention in American popular culture for her fiery liberal dissents and refusal to step down; she has been dubbed "The Notorious R.B.G." in reference to the late rapper known as "The Notorious B.I.G.".
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Greta Thunberg
Environmentalist, Activist - Kate Middleton holds the title of Princess of Wales, a position she assumed after her marriage to Prince William, Duke of Cambridge. Born on January 9, 1982, in Reading, Berkshire, England, she hails from a family with ties to British aristocracy. Her parents, Michael and Carole Middleton, own Party Pieces, a successful party supply company. Catherine's early life was fairly normal, with her education beginning at St. Andrew's School in Pangbourne and later continuing at Marlborough College in Wiltshire. Catherine first crossed paths with Prince William in 2001 while attending the University of St Andrews in Scotland. Their friendship blossomed into romance, making headlines across the globe due to William's royal lineage. After a brief split in 2007, the couple reconciled and announced their engagement in November 2010. The world watched as they exchanged vows in a grand ceremony at Westminster Abbey in April 2011, following which Catherine officially became the Duchess of Cambridge. As the Duchess of Cambridge, Catherine quickly became a public figure admired for her grace, style, and commitment to charitable causes. She works closely with organizations addressing mental health issues, addiction, and child development, demonstrating a deep dedication to improving lives. As a mother of three - Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis - she balances her public duties with a private life, reflecting an image of modern royalty. Despite the pressures and scrutiny that come with her role, Catherine continues to navigate her path with poise and dignity, contributing to her enduring appeal.
- 11Activist, PoliticianAlexandria Ocasio-Cortez (born October 13, 1989) is an American activist, community organizer, and democratic-socialist politician. On June 26, 2018, Ocasio-Cortez won the Democratic primary in New York's 14th congressional district, defeating the incumbent, Democratic Caucus Chair Joseph Crowley, in what has been described as the biggest upset victory in the 2018 midterm election season. Ocasio-Cortez is a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, and has been endorsed by a variety of politically progressive organizations and individuals.
- 12Record producer, Businessperson, SongwriterBeyoncĆ© Knowles-Carter, known universally as BeyoncĆ©, is a multi-talented artist who has made significant contributions to the music and entertainment industry. Born in Houston, Texas on September 4th, 1981, she first made herself known to the world as part of Destiny's Child in the late 1990s. The group quickly gained fame for their powerful vocals and harmonies. However, it was after her departure from the group that BeyoncĆ© truly began to shine as an individual artist. With her debut solo album Dangerously in Love released in 2003, BeyoncĆ© established herself as a powerhouse vocalist with a distinctive style blending R&B with pop sensibilities. This album won five Grammy Awards and featured two number-one singles: "Crazy In Love" and "Baby Boy". Her subsequent albums continued this trend of success; they were critically acclaimed and commercially successful globally. Notably among these are 'Lemonade', which showcased her artistic prowess by tackling themes of love, betrayal, and empowerment while also exploring various genres like country, blues, and reggae. Beyond music alone though lies another little discussed nook of BeyoncĆ©'s career - acting. She has appeared in several films including 'Austin Powers: Goldmember' (2002), 'The Pink Panther' (2006), 'Dreamgirls' (2006) where she earned two Golden Globe nominations for Best Actress ā Motion Picture Comedy or Musical and Best Original Song. Moreover, Beyonce's philanthropic efforts have seen her involved with causes such as disaster relief following Hurricane Katrina as well as initiatives aimed at providing clean water access to those without it worldwide. Overall, BeyoncĆ© represents more than just an entertainer; she is an icon who has proven to use her platform not only for artistic expression but also social activism.
- 13Fashion designer, Record producer, BusinesspersonBorn as Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, Lady Gaga is an internationally recognized pop star, songwriter and actress who has left indelible imprints in the world of music with her distinctive vocal prowess and audacious visual style. Her journey to stardom began in New York City where she honed her musical skills at the Convent of the Sacred Heart School before studying briefly at New York University's Tisch School for the Arts. Known for her flamboyant costumes, provocative lyrics and strong vocal talents, Gaga emerged on the music scene in 2008 with debut album The Fame, which included chart-topping singles like "Poker Face" and "Just Dance". Lady Gaga's music career skyrocketed further when she released subsequent albums that were equally successful. Her second full-length album Born This Way explored themes of empowerment while showcasing a darker musical tone. The title track became a massive hit worldwide, reinforcing her place among pop royalty. In addition to her music career, Gaga has also made significant strides in acting; most notably receiving critical acclaim for her role in Bradley Cooper's film adaptation of A Star is Born, which earned her an Academy Award nomination. Beyond entertainment, Lady Gaga is known for using her platform to advocate for mental health awareness and LGBTQ+ rights - reflecting these values both through public activism as well as within much of her songwriting. She launched the Born This Way Foundation alongside her mother Cynthia Germanotta intended to support youth wellness and empower young people to create a kinder world by fostering kindness over cruelty and bravery over bullying. As such Lady Gaga's influence extends far beyond just entertainment: she remains a powerful voice advocating change across numerous social issues.
- 14Politician, Physicist, ScientistAngela Dorothea Merkel (, German: [aÅĖÉ”eĖla ĖmÉÉĢÆklĢ©]; nĆ©e Kasner; born 17 July 1954) is a German politician serving as Chancellor of Germany since 2005. She served as the leader of the centre-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU) from 2000 to 2018. Merkel has been widely described as the de facto leader of the European Union, the most powerful woman in the world, and, following the election of Donald Trump as U.S. President, by many commentators as the new leader of the Free World.Merkel was born in Hamburg in then-West Germany and moved to East Germany as an infant when her father, a Lutheran clergyman, received a pastorate in Perleberg. She obtained a doctorate in quantum chemistry in 1986 and worked as a research scientist until 1989. Merkel entered politics in the wake of the Revolutions of 1989, and briefly served as a deputy spokesperson for the first democratically elected East German Government headed by Lothar de MaiziĆØre in 1990. Following German reunification in 1990, Merkel was elected to the Bundestag for the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, and has been reelected ever since. As the protĆ©gĆ©e of Chancellor Helmut Kohl, Merkel was appointed as the Federal Minister for Women and Youth in Kohl's government in 1991, and became the Federal Minister for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety in 1994. After her party lost the federal election in 1998, Merkel was elected Secretary-General of the CDU before becoming the party's first female leader two years later in the aftermath of a donations scandal that toppled Wolfgang SchƤuble. Following the 2005 federal election, Merkel was appointed Germany's first female chancellor at the head of a grand coalition consisting of the CDU, its Bavarian sister party the Christian Social Union (CSU), and the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD). In the 2009 federal election the CDU obtained the largest share of the vote, and Merkel was able to form a coalition government with the Free Democratic Party (FDP). At the 2013 federal election, Merkel's CDU won a landslide victory with 41.5% of the vote and formed a second grand coalition with the SPD, after the FDP lost all of its representation in the Bundestag. After the 2017 federal election the CDU was again the largest party, and she was reelected to her fourth term on 14 March 2018.In 2007, Merkel was President of the European Council and played a central role in the negotiation of the Treaty of Lisbon and the Berlin Declaration. One of Merkel's consistent priorities has been to strengthen transatlantic economic relations. Merkel played a crucial role in managing the financial crisis at the European and international level, and she has been referred to as "the decider". In domestic policy, health care reform, problems concerning future energy development and more recently her government's approach to the ongoing migrant crisis have been major issues during her Chancellorship. In 2009 she succeeded George W. Bush as the senior G7 leader and in 2014 she became the longest-serving incumbent head of government in the European Union. In October 2018, Merkel announced that she would not seek reelection as leader of the CDU at the party convention in December 2018 and as Chancellor in 2021.
- 15Fashion designer, Songwriter, ActorBorn in Saint Michael, Barbados, Rihanna is a global icon known for her significant contributions to the music industry. Her full name Robyn Rihanna Fenty conveys her Caribbean heritage and she has often incorporated elements of this into her work. She was discovered by Evan Rogers, an American record producer who happened to be vacationing on the island and quickly recognized her talent. Rihanna's debut album Music of the Sun was released under Def Jam Recordings after she moved to New York City. The album showcased a blend of reggae, R&B and pop influences that were indicative of Rihanna's diverse musical taste. It peaked at number ten on the Billboard 200 chart, paving the way for further success with albums like A Girl Like Me and Good Girl Gone Bad, which included Grammy-winning single "Umbrella". Over time, she became renowned for continually reinventing her style and sound. In addition to music, Rihanna has been involved in various business ventures including fashion and cosmetics industries. She launched Fenty Beauty line which received widespread acclaim for its inclusivity promoting a broad array of shades suitable for different skin tones. Furthermore, she debuted her Savage X Fenty lingerie line, aimed at promoting body positivity among consumers. Her entrepreneurial efforts have been lauded as much as her artistic prowess, making Rihanna not just a successful singer but also an accomplished businesswoman.
- 16Model, Actor, Voice actingScarlett Johansson, an American actress and singer, is one of the most talented personalities in Hollywood. Born on November 22nd, 1984 in New York City to a Danish father and a Jewish mother, she was drawn towards arts from her early childhood. Her passion for acting led her to enroll at the Lee Strasberg Theatre Institute where she honed her skills before making it big on screen. Johansson's career began at a young age with roles in films such as North and Just Cause. However, it was her role as Grace MacLean in The Horse Whisperer that truly brought her into the limelight. She continued to impress critics and audiences alike with performances in films like Ghost World, but it was Sofia Coppola's Lost in Translation that solidified Johansson's position as an esteemed actress earning herself a BAFTA award for Best Actress. Apart from acting, Scarlett has also made significant strides as a singer releasing two albums: Anywhere I Lay My Head which consists of Tom Waits covers and Break Up, both receiving positive reviews. Furthermore, Johansson is known not only for her talent but also for being politically active participating actively during elections supporting different candidates over time. A versatile performer with an impressive range of roles under her belt, Scarlett Johansson remains one of Hollywood's most respected figures.
- 17Arranger, Musician, Singer-songwriterAdele, full name Adele Laurie Blue Adkins, is a globally renowned singer and songwriter hailing from Tottenham, London. Born on May 5th, 1988, she made her way into the music industry with an impressive debut album titled 19, released in 2008. The album was named after her age at its creation and was met with massive acclaim for its mature sound and resonating lyrics about heartbreak. It featured hit singles such as Chasing Pavements and Hometown Glory. Her prowess didn't stop there; she took home two Grammy Awards in 2009 for Best New Artist and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. In 2011, Adele released her second studio album 21, again reflecting her age during composition. This time around, the commercial success outdid even that of her first release - it topped charts worldwide and broke numerous sales records. Hit singles like Rolling in the Deep, Someone Like You, and Set Fire to the Rain propelled Adele to international fame while also earning six Grammy Awards including Album of the Year. Adele released her fourth studio album titled 30 in November of 2021. The album 30 is inspired Adele's divorce, motherhood, fame, heartache, and hope. Beyond these achievements are further milestones that solidify Adele's place among musical greats: In addition to winning an Academy Award for Best Original Song with Skyfall (the theme song for a James Bond film), she returned triumphantly onto the scene after a hiatus with another chart-topping album ā25' featuring hits like Hello. Despite personal challenges along this journey ā vocal cord surgery in late-2011 being one ā Adele has consistently demonstrated resilience alongside unmatched vocal talent.
- 18BusinesspersonMelinda Ann Gates DBE (nƩe French; August 15, 1964) is an American philanthropist and a former general manager at Microsoft. In 2000, she co-founded the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation with her husband Bill Gates, the world's largest private charitable organization. Gates has consistently been ranked as one of the world's most powerful women by Forbes.
- 19PoliticianJacinda Kate Laurell Ardern (; born 26 July 1980) is a New Zealand politician serving since 26 October 2017 as the 40th Prime Minister of New Zealand. She has also served as the Leader of the Labour Party since 1 August 2017. Ardern has been the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Mount Albert electorate since 8 March 2017; she was first elected to the House of Representatives as a list MP at the 2008 general election.After graduating from the University of Waikato in 2001, Ardern began her career working as a researcher in the office of Prime Minister Helen Clark. She later worked in the United Kingdom as a policy advisor to British Prime Minister Tony Blair. In 2008, she was elected President of the International Union of Socialist Youth.Ardern became a list MP in 2008, a position she held for almost ten years until her election to the Mount Albert electorate in the 2017 by-election, held on 25 February. She was unanimously elected as Deputy Leader of the Labour Party on 1 March 2017, following the resignation of Annette King. Ardern became Leader of the Labour Party on 1 August 2017, after Andrew Little resigned from the position following a historically low poll result for the party. She is credited with increasing her party's rating in opinion polls. In the general election of 23 September 2017, the Labour Party won 46 seats (a net gain of 14), putting it behind the National Party, which won 56 seats. After negotiations with National and Labour, the New Zealand First party chose to enter into a minority coalition government with Labour, supported by the Greens, with Ardern as Prime Minister. Ardern's government has focused particularly on the New Zealand housing crisis, child poverty, and social inequality. In March 2019, she led the country through the aftermath of the Christchurch mosque shootings, and her government introduced strict gun laws in response. Ardern describes herself as a social democrat and a progressive. She is the world's youngest female head of government, having taken office at age 37. Ardern became the world's second elected head of government to give birth while in office when her daughter was born on 21 June 2018. For her global outreach, leadership skills, and the fact that New Zealand's global ratings of approval and importance are significantly improving under her premiership, Ardern has been widely described the most powerful woman in the Southern Hemisphere and one of the most powerful women in the world.
- 20
Sonia Sotomayor
Editor, Judge, JuristSonia Maria Sotomayor (Spanish: [Ėsonja sotomaĖŹoɾ]; born June 25, 1954) is an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, appointed by President Barack Obama in May 2009 and confirmed that August. She has the distinction of being its first Hispanic and Latina Justice.Sotomayor was born in The Bronx, New York City, to Puerto Rican-born parents. Her father died when she was nine, and she was subsequently raised by her mother. Sotomayor graduated summa cum laude from Princeton University in 1976 and received her J.D. from Yale Law School in 1979, where she was an editor at the Yale Law Journal. She worked as an assistant district attorney in New York for four-and-a-half years before entering private practice in 1984. She played an active role on the boards of directors for the Puerto Rican Legal Defense and Education Fund, the State of New York Mortgage Agency, and the New York City Campaign Finance Board. Sotomayor was nominated to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York by President George H. W. Bush in 1991; confirmation followed in 1992. In 1997, she was nominated by President Bill Clinton to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. Her nomination was slowed by the Republican majority in the United States Senate, but she was eventually confirmed in 1998. On the Second Circuit, Sotomayor heard appeals in more than 3,000 cases and wrote about 380 opinions. Sotomayor has taught at the New York University School of Law and Columbia Law School. In May 2009, President Barack Obama nominated Sotomayor to the Supreme Court following the retirement of Justice David Souter. Her nomination was confirmed by the Senate in August 2009 by a vote of 68ā31. While on the court, Sotomayor has supported the informal liberal bloc of justices when they divide along the commonly perceived ideological lines. During her tenure on the Supreme Court, Sotomayor has been identified with concern for the rights of defendants, calls for reform of the criminal justice system, and making impassioned dissents on issues of race, gender and ethnic identity, including Schuette v. BAMN, Utah v. Strieff, and Trump v. Hawaii. - 21Model, ActorMeghan, Duchess of Sussex, born as Rachel Meghan Markle on August 4, 1981, is an American-born member of the British royal family, a philanthropist, and a former actress. Her journey to global prominence began in Los Angeles, California, where she was born and raised. She graduated from Northwestern University in 2003, earning her degree in Theatre and International Studies. Meghan's acting career spanned over a decade, with her most prominent role being Rachel Zane in the legal drama series Suits, which ran from 2011 until 2017. In 2018, Meghan's life took a significant turn when she married Prince Harry, becoming the Duchess of Sussex. Her union with Prince Harry was historic, making her one of the few American citizens to marry into a royal family. The couple's wedding was a globally televised event, attended by numerous high-profile guests and watched by millions around the world. In addition to her royal duties, Meghan also continued to make strides in philanthropy, focusing on issues like gender equality and education. However, Meghan's time as a senior royal was short-lived. In 2020, she and Prince Harry stepped back from their royal duties, seeking to carve out a more progressive role within the institution and to establish financial independence. They relocated to California, USA, where they continue to engage in various charitable endeavors through their non-profit organization, Archewell Foundation. Despite the challenges and scrutiny faced, Meghan remains a figure of intrigue and admiration for many, symbolizing a modern approach to royalty, philanthropy, and public life.
- 22Singer, Rapper, SongwriterMelissa Jefferson (born April 27, 1988), better known by her stage name Lizzo, is an American alternative hip hop artist based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She is a founding member of indie hip hop groups The Chalice, Grrrl Prty, The Clerb, Ellypseas, and Absynthe. Her debut album, Lizzobangers, was released in 2013. Two years later, Lizzobangers was followed by Big Grrrl Small World in 2015, which, only one year later, was followed with the 2016 major-label EP Coconut Oil.
- 23ActivistEmma GonzƔlez is an American activist and advocate for gun control. As a high school senior she survived the February 2018 Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, Florida, and in response co-founded the gun-control advocacy group Never Again MSD. GonzƔlez first drew national attention after a speech she gave at a rally against gun violence went viral, famously proclaiming "We call B.S." on the lack of action by politicians funded by the NRA. Subsequently, GonzƔlez continued to be an outspoken activist on gun control, making high profile media appearances and helping organize the March for Our Lives, which became the largest student protest in American history. Speaking at the demonstration, GonzƔlez led a moment of silence for the victims of the massacre, standing on stage for six minutes, which she observed was the length of the shooting spree.
- 24Film Producer, Model, ScreenwriterAngelina Jolie, an American actress, filmmaker, and humanitarian of global repute, has been a prominent figure in Hollywood for her remarkable acting prowess and dedication to philanthropic endeavors. Born on June 4th, 1975 in Los Angeles, California to actors Jon Voight and Marcheline Bertrand, she was destined for the limelight from an early age. Her breakthrough came with the biographical television film George Wallace (1997), which won her a Golden Globe Award. However, it was her portrayal of video game heroine Lara Croft in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider that launched Jolie into international stardom. Jolie's career is marked by diverse roles across genres that showcase her versatility as an actor. She bagged an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Girl Interrupted (1999). In addition to mainstream cinema success with films like Mr & Mrs Smith, Wanted, and Maleficent, she ventured into directing and screenwriting with projects such as In the Land of Blood and Honey(2011) - a war drama set during the Bosnian War. Apart from being one of Hollywood's highest-paid actresses over time, Angelina Jolie has made significant contributions towards humanitarian causes. She became involved with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) after filming Lara Croft: Tomb Raider in Cambodia ā eventually becoming their Goodwill Ambassador and later Special Envoy. Her work focuses on areas like refugee rights, conservationist efforts including wildlife protection initiatives globally along with education programs especially designed for children affected by conflict.
- 25Musician, Singer-songwriter, ActorDemi Lovato, born on August 20, 1992, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress whose influence has transcended the entertainment industry. With a career that began at a young age, Lovato's path to stardom was paved by a role on the children's television series Barney & Friends. This early start led to more prominent roles, including the lead in Disney Channel's musical film Camp Rock, which catapulted the young star into the limelight. Lovato's musical prowess cannot be underestimated. After gaining fame from acting, they transitioned into the music scene with their debut album, Don't Forget, released in 2008. The album was a commercial success, garnering critical acclaim and peaking at number two on the Billboard 200. Lovato's unique blend of pop, pop rock, and R&B genres resonated with audiences worldwide, leading to numerous successful albums, including Here We Go Again, Unbroken, Confident, and Tell Me You Love Me. Their vocal range and emotive songwriting have earned them multiple awards and nominations, including a Grammy nomination. Beyond their entertainment career, Lovato is known for their advocacy work. They have been open about personal struggles with mental health and substance abuse, using their platform to raise awareness and reduce stigma around these issues. Lovato's commitment to various social and environmental causes, including LGBTQ+ rights, mental health, and climate change, has earned them respect and admiration globally. Their courage in sharing personal experiences through documentaries like Demi Lovato: Simply Complicated and Demi Lovato: Dancing with the Devil has helped many fans and followers navigate their own challenges, further solidifying Lovato's impact beyond the confines of music and acting.
- 26Songwriter, Actor, SingerAriana Grande, born Ariana Grande-Butera on June 26, 1993 in Boca Raton, Florida, is a celebrated American singer and actress. Her career started when she was cast as Cat Valentine on the Nickelodeon television series Victorious which ran from 2010 to 2013. This role provided her with an opportunity to showcase her talents and led to a spin-off show called Sam & Cat. However, it wasn't until she ventured into music that her fame skyrocketed. Grande's debut album Yours Truly, released in 2013 under Republic Records, went straight to number one on the US Billboard charts. The lead single from this album The Way became a top ten hit and set the tone for what would become an immensely successful career in pop music. She followed up with equally successful albums like My Everything (2014), Dangerous Woman (2016), Sweetener (2018) and Thank U Next (2019). Each of these albums solidified her status as one of pop's leading ladies due to their commercial success and critical acclaim. Despite being primarily known for her music career today, Grande has never abandoned acting entirely. Throughout the years she has made guest appearances on various TV shows including Scream Queens and had supporting roles in movies such as Zoolander 2. She has also been recognized with numerous awards including Grammy Awards, Brit Awards, and Billboard Music Awards making Ariana Grande an influential figure within both the music industry and pop culture as a whole.
- 27Comedian, Television producer, MusicianTina Fey, born as Elizabeth Stamatina Fey on May 18, 1970, in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, is an acclaimed American actress, comedian, writer, and producer. She attended the University of Virginia where she studied playwriting and acting and graduated in 1992. Fey's early professional journey began at The Second City, a renowned improvisational theater troupe based in Chicago, where she honed her comedic skills. Later, she joined the writing team of Saturday Night Live (SNL) in 1997 and became the first female head writer in 1999. Fey's tenure at SNL was instrumental in shaping her career. It was during this period that she created the character of Sarah Palin during the 2008 Presidential Election which garnered national attention. In 2004, Fey expanded her portfolio by writing and co-starring in the comedy film Mean Girls. The film was a box office success and has since become a pop-culture phenomenon. In 2006, Fey left SNL to develop the television series 30 Rock for NBC, a satirical sitcom based on her experiences at SNL. Serving as the show's creator, writer, and lead actress, Fey received critical acclaim and numerous awards, including multiple Emmys, Golden Globes, and Screen Actors Guild Awards. Fey also co-created the Netflix comedy series Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, further solidifying her position as a prominent figure in the television industry.
- 28Guitarist, Musician, Singer-songwriterTaylor Swift, an American singer-songwriter, has emerged as one of the most recognized figures in contemporary pop culture. She was born on December 13, 1989 in Reading, Pennsylvania. With her musical journey starting at a young age, she moved to Nashville at the age of fourteen to pursue a career in country music and quickly gained attention for her talent. Swift's debut album Taylor Swift was released under Big Machine Records in 2006 when she was just sixteen years old. The album stirred up the music industry with its hit single "Our Song", making Swift the youngest person ever to write and perform a number-one song on Hot Country Songs chart. Her subsequent albums such as Fearless, Speak Now, and Red further cemented her status as a powerful voice within both country and pop genres. Particularly notable is her transition from country to mainstream pop with the release of 1989 which won three Grammy Awards including Album of the Year. Beyond music, Taylor Swift has also made significant contributions through philanthropic work focusing on disaster relief funds, education initiatives and support for arts education. In addition to this work off-stage, she is known for fostering close relationships with fans through social media platforms and surprise Secret Sessions prior to album releases. All these elements combined have shaped Taylor Swift into not just an artist but also an influential figure whose impact extends beyond music alone.
- 29Television director, Comedian, Television producerMindy Kaling, born Vera Mindy Chokalingam on June 24, 1979, is an American actress, comedian, writer, and producer of Indian descent. Raised in Cambridge, Massachusetts, she developed a passion for comedy at a young age. She attended Dartmouth College, where she joined the improvisational comedy troupe "The Dog Day Players" and the a cappella group "The Rockapellas", evidencing her proclivity for performance and entertainment early on. After graduation, she moved to Brooklyn, New York, and started as a stand-up comedian, while concurrently making her first strides into television writing. Kaling's breakthrough came when she co-wrote and co-starred in the off-Broadway play Matt & Ben, satirizing Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, which was named one of Time Magazine's "Top Ten Theatrical Events of The Year" in 2002. This success led to her being hired as a writer and actor on the hit NBC show The Office, where she portrayed the character Kelly Kapoor, earning multiple nominations for Primetime Emmy Awards. During her time on The Office, Kaling also ventured into directing and producing. After The Office, Kaling created and starred in The Mindy Project, a romantic comedy series on Fox and later Hulu, further cementing her place in the comedic world. She has written two New York Times best-selling memoirs, Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns) and Why Not Me?, showcasing her witty and relatable writing style. In film, Kaling has taken roles in successful movies such as Inside Out, A Wrinkle in Time, and Ocean's 8.
- 30PoliticianNancy Pelosi, born on March 26, 1940 in Baltimore, Maryland, has widely been recognized as a trailblazer in American politics. Raised in a politically active family, she embarked on her political career by volunteering for the Democratic Party and was first elected to Congress in 1987. Pelosi made history when she became the first woman to hold the position of House Speaker, one of the highest-ranking roles in the U.S. government, in 2007. Pelosi's leadership in Congress has been marked by significant policy triumphs. Among the legislative milestones she spearheaded was the passage of the Affordable Care Act in 2010, which was noted as a landmark reform that expanded healthcare access for millions of Americans. Furthermore, Pelosi's tenure has been characterized by her unyielding advocacy for women's rights, environmental conservation, and economic justice, leaving an indelible mark on American public policy. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout her career, Pelosi has proven her resilience and commitment to the values she holds dear. Her ability to navigate complex political landscapes while maintaining her focus on serving the American people has earned her respect among her peers and constituents alike. As an unwavering advocate for progressive values, Pelosi's impact on American politics serves as a testament to her enduring influence and leadership.
