Every day, women all around the world are using their voices, their business acumen, their gut instincts, and their hearts to express themselves, make tough decisions, often going against the status quo, to create room for change. It took decades of suffragists being vocal before Congress passed the 19th Amendment in 1920, which granted women the right to vote.  

DOWNTOWN reached out to women of diverse ages, ethnicities, and careers, and asked them to answer these questions. 

1. Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
2. What do you believe is the secret to your success?
3. If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
4. In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
5. What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
6. Where do you find your confidence?
7. In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
8. What brings you the most joy?

The following Q&As feature excerpts of their articulate responses, which are inspiring and candid. Several observations that are consistent with our participants:

Trust your gut.

Break out of your comfort zone.

Don’t isolate yourself. Seek mentors, create a village of people who support your vision.

The struggle for women’s rights is ever-present, in terms of wage parity, stripped reproductive rights, LGBTQ marriage rights, and the list goes on. We must remain vigilant in using our voice to speak up and speak out loud and clearly.

Interviews compiled by Grace A. Capobianco, Linda Sheridan, Cade Callen, Sabrina Little, and Grace Bugin.

 

Don’t forget to check out our behind-the-scenes interviews on some of these incredible women and our cover talent, Lisa Silverstein.

 

 

KHADY KAMARA NUNEZ

Executive Director of Perelman Performing Arts Center (PAC)

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
1. My mother is my role model. She tackles all life’s challenges maintaining grace and a level head.
2. Trailblazers such as Michelle Obama and Oprah Winfrey. These strong black women navigated uncharted territories and broke down barriers for future generations.
3. Zelda Fichandler co-founded Arena Stage in Washington, DC in 1950. Arena Stage was one of the first nonprofit theaters in the US and she was a pioneer of the regional theater movement.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
Success is never an individual accomplishment so building a strong team is a high priority for me. I’ve learned this business from entry level up and have applied that knowledge holistically as my career has grown. I also work to keep a good sense of humor and connection to what is important. As arts leaders, we navigate a highly emotional fast-paced industry that changes daily. Keeping a good attitude is key.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Be your authentic self. Do the scary thing.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
As a black woman and an immigrant this question is quite vast and therefore I can only answer in as broad of a manner; my utopia is a place where people grow to accept and celebrate each other’s differences.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
Through the arts, I have been the most proud of creating spaces for artists and audiences to convene, connect, converse and align. I am honored to have been a part of so many groundbreaking productions such as Cats the Jellicle Ball and Dear Evan Hansen that have shone a spotlight on underrepresented voices and started meaningful dialogue.

Where do you find your confidence?
My mother. She has always encouraged me to be my own best advocate. She’s reminded me time and time again that no one else can fill that role better than me.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
People are beautiful by simply being their authentic selves.

What brings you the most joy?
Spending time with my very large Senegalese family.

pacnyc.org

 

 

ELIZABETH VELEZ

President, Velez Organization

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
Tough Question! There are so many powerful and amazing women out there! Family has been one place where I have had many examples – including my grandmother who was a business owner long before the term ‘entrepreneur’ was coined. But there are so many others that just inspire, motivate, and are agents of change. Top three? One is a NYC- born Latina who has reached the absolute pinnacle of success in the field of law; another is an a sought-after voice on issues affecting our great city, and the last is an outspoken advocate for opportunity and wellness – best known for being one half of one of the most powerful couples in the world.

1. The Honorable Sonia Sotomayor: “There are uses to adversity, and they don’t reveal themselves until tested,” says Justice Sonia Sotomayor. “Whether it’s serious illness, financial hardship, or the simple constraint of parents who speak limited English, difficulty can tap unexpected strengths.” Personifying her words, she was raised in a single-parent household in the Bronx, graduated summa cum laude from Princeton, attended Yale Law School, rose to become a U.S. District Court Judge and then was appointed as a Supreme Court Justice. I was incredibly fortunate to share a meal with Justice Sotomayor where we discussed a wide variety of topics including Puerto Rico (our collective birthright!), the Bronx (where I now call home), and the incredible importance of equity and opportunity (some of our shared values). She is a force – unstoppable, focused, and passionate about the world. Her story continues to inspire women of all walks, ethnicities, and backgrounds.

2. Kathryn Wylde: I met Kathy Wylde when I was an undergraduate student, and she has remained for me someone to admire and aspire. In my profession, she is a rock star – an internationally recognized expert in housing, economic development, and policy. I connected with her back in the early nineties when she spearheaded initiatives to develop affordable housing and economic development programs that revitalized blighted urban neighborhoods across the five boroughs of New York City. She has the vision and tenacity to cut through the morass of lethargy and inaction to strengthen and propel our great City. She has the unique ability to speak up and speak out – all the while fostering collaboration including forming a network of business leaders and investors that have fueled the city’s “innovation economy,” which in turn continues to create thousands of jobs and opportunities, and help to get us through some real rough patches – including financial crises, a crippling pandemic, and the political ebb and flow.

3. Michelle Obama: She is awe-inspiring to me – successful attorney, impressive First Lady of theUnited States strong mother, role model to so many around the globe. One of my amazing female project managers invited me to see her on her “Becoming” book tour at Barclays Stadium, and while I was smitten before the event, I became absolutely hooked thereafter. I spent the entire show taking notes on my cellphone – she can – on the one side be entirely relatable and on the other be a wise philosopher. In a self-deprecating and humorous way, she reminds us of the importance of paying attention to how you feel, tapping into your body, heart, and mind.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
My dad had a personal credo which was the core of his drive, “It will come to he who hustles.” He even had that slogan made into a framed sign which still hangs in our office over five decades later. For me, success is the sum of small steps, small moments that invariably create the path to fulfillment and accomplishment. Success is also a powerful blend of elements: being a bit of a sponge that supports continuous learning, resilience in the face of challenges, a cheerful outlook, the ability to pivot, some grit, and a genuine passion for your journey. There is no single magic bullet; rather, it’s about embracing those signature and singular moments that add up to personal and professional growth.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
We live in an age now where we are constantly swallowed up in a world of comparison which is most likely rooted in false pretenses. Social media, AI, marketing methods all mask reality. Given this, my advice is simple: Do not compare yourself to others. Your strengths and weaknesses are uniquely yours, and you are on a journey that only you can navigate. Embrace the ride without focusing on how others are moving forward. Find your voice and boldly share it with the world.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
Being a Latin woman in the overwhelmingly male dominated field of construction has posed unique challenges – and even some opportunities – over the years. It has also inspired me to strongly advocate for equality in my personal and professional life – whether in my Board involvement, my work as a public official, or spearheading meaningful change in the industry that I love. In the fight for equality, the area that demands our most passionate attention is the most basic pursuit of equal access to opportunity. This vision is achievable through education, support, accessible housing, proper nutrition, and the strength of a supportive community. Yet, the harsh reality is that the absence of these vital elements creates barriers to opportunity, perpetuating the inequalities and reinforcing a crippling status quo. While the inherent conflict between opportunity and bias challenges us, it is with leadership and intentionality that we can harmonize these forces and achieve a semblance of equity for all.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
My career has spanned over three decades, and I am tremendously proud of the incredible moments that have shaped my perspective and made my heartbeat. I am most proud of overcoming systemic barriers which in turn allowed me to reach new spaces and places of leadership. My industry chose me to be the first person of color and only second woman to Chair the New York Building Congress in its 100-year history. I have had the incredible opportunity to share meals with two Justices of the Supreme Court – first Chief Justice Antonin Scalia, and then Justice Sotomayor – two brilliant giants of law with such different ideologies. I have been tasked to embrace challenges head-on by tackling tough issues like New York City property tax reform, supporting the largest public transportation system in the world and improving the environment through the first ever congestion pricing system in the United States. I am equally proud to bring a fresh perspective to my amazing City, inspiring change and making a difference.

Where do you find your confidence?
At a young age, my father would remind me that “the construction industry was no place for a woman.” I remember laughing and brushing off his clear attempt to protect me from what he thought was an unforgiving and harsh world. My confidence radiates from the power of simply walking my own unique path. I love the rush of operating outside of my comfort zone, embracing the learning that springs out of being curious and am supremely blessed to have a loving and supportive family.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
I genuinely believe that adage that “true beauty comes from within.” It springs forth when she taps into her amazing inner qualities like confidence, kindness, passion, honesty, empathy, and certainly laughter. When I am feeling good inside – when my heart is pumping from a great song, a touching encounter, or feeling like I just had a “pinch-me, is this really happening?” reality-check moment – that radiates out to all those around you. It is the ultimate beauty boost – all from inside!

What brings you the most joy?
The formidable power that comes from gratitude!

velezorg.com

 

 

GRACE BONILLA

President/CEO of United Way of NYC

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
Many women inspire me. If I had to pick some, I would say my grandmother, nonprofit women leaders of color, Shirley Chisholm and Matilde Hidalgo.

1. My grandmother inspired me because she was a pillar of strength and compassion. She came to the United States without speaking the language, working multiple jobs to support families in three different countries. Yet she always made time for me. She made time to share our food and teach me about our culture and the power of our ancestors and my responsibility to be there for those that come after me. She believed I could do anything. I am so happy that she saw me graduate from law school. I remember when I showed her my diploma. She looked at me and said not bad now what about medical school? She was my biggest cheerleader even when her dreams for me were bigger than I could imagine. Throughout all of the challenges, she laughed and joked and found joy in the smallest things. Her joy, commitment to service and love of family are her legacy and I carry them with pride.
Nonprofit female leaders of color inspire me because when I think of the work I have done throughout my career much of it is executed by women who lead in their respective communities. They do so by inspiring others to show up even if the work is hard. They tirelessly worry about the barriers in their communities and about making payroll. They are asked to meet the most difficult social challenges while sacrificing time with their families, time for themselves and time for their health. If you look in any community where resources are inequitable you will find a woman who loves her community and will leave it all on the line to plant seeds of opportunities for trees they know they might not see in their lifetime. For me that is what leadership and faith look like and its these women that inspire me everyday to make things a little easier for them.

2. Shirley Chisholm is an inspiration to me. She was the first Black woman to be elected to Congress and then the first woman to run to be the Presidential nominee for a major party. I have often wondered what it was like to imagine opportunities that were never possible before she created them. The bravery, boldness and determination that open doors for so many are awe-inspiring.

3. I find Matilde Hidalgo inspiring. She was a trailblazer in Ecuador. In the early 1900’s she became the first woman to finish high school, graduate from medical school and hold office in Ecuador, as well as the first woman to vote in all of Latin America. At every turn she looked for loopholes and opportunities to break barriers, including making the argument that there was nothing in the Ecuadorian constitution to prevent her from voting in 1924.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
I have been fortunate to have positions where I can live out my values. The secret to my success is twofold, I approach the work as a servant leader, and I use my position to address challenges by first understanding the root cause and then remaining agile so that I am able to stay focused on the solution as opposed to being tied to a process. When I understand what is driving something, I can build solutions that are meaningful, long lasting and rooted in equitable results.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
I would tell a young woman to enjoy the journey that comes along with chasing your dreams and that failure is a gift. I am the oldest of four, so I have a lot of experience being the person in my family who did things first. It is important to look around at what you’ve accomplished while you are carving a new path, accomplishing your goals and striving for more. It is just as important to be bold and not to be afraid of mistakes and failures because that is where growth takes place. Take a moment to reflect while you continue climbing.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
As we look for solutions to some of the most complex problems that impede economic mobility, we must keep in mind that each community deserves and needs different interventions so that everyone has the chance to succeed. The four pillars of our work at United Way of New York City come to mind. Our programs focus on education, justice and opportunity, health equity, and food and benefits access. Those are the core components of the human experience and critical factors for people to thrive. But we work at understanding demographics that create conditions of economic instability, they could be age, gender, childcare, housing and transportation access.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
I have been fortunate to follow my passion for public service and have enjoyed my journey. I’ll share a couple of the things that make me proud. When I look back on my time so far at United Way of New York City I’m proud of what we have been able to accomplish. With our partners, we’ve distributed more than 14 million pounds of food to families in need, and provided over 230,000 books and 5,000 stocked backpacks to students in the New York City public school system. We’ve also worked with other organizations to expand preventative healthcare access for over 100,000 community members, and provide more than 50,000 New Yorkers with health education and wellness events. More recently, we’ve partnered with organizations to launch a community violence intervention designed to serve men at the highest risk of engaging in community violence, and 97% of participants who complete the violence intervention program do not have a violent felony rearrest. Each of these services lead to incredible lessons that allow us to advocate for the type of systems change that can impact our city for generations.

Before joining United Way of New York City, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in March of 2020, I was appointed by Mayor Bill de Blasio to serve as the first Executive Director of the Task force on Racial Equity and Inclusion, where I led a cross section of 80 city leaders and made over 100 recommendations, many of which are currently implemented.

As someone who has a passion for service, these are some of my proudest moments.

Where do you find your confidence?
I get my confidence from seeing the impact of my work. I believe that New York City is a city of promise – that’s why my parents moved here from Ecuador. When I see New Yorkers being able to access the promise of our great city, that energizes me to keep going and it fuels me with confidence. Not only confidence in myself, but confidence in our city and its promise.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
Confidence and purpose! I think our true beauty is shown when we are our true selves doing what we love. Beauty is also empowering others along the way. When I think about my true self, I think about operating in a public service capacity. That is where my heart is; that is beautiful to me.

What brings you the most joy?
Hearing stories of families and individuals that have been impacted by the work we do gives me joy. Hearing a mother say that our programs saved her son and helped him turn his life around is incredibly energizing. I often hear from our food bank partners that because we maximize their efforts with support, they have been able to provide people with dignified access to nutritious food, and stories like that make me happy and empower me to keep going.

unitedwaynyc.org

 

 

LAURA LENDRUM

CEO of Printemps America

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
1. Grace and Selflessness: Mother Teresa dedicated her life to serving the poor and disadvantaged.
2. Vision and Courage: Billie Jean King, tennis player and advocate for equality between men and women.
3. Bravery and Conviction: Rosa Parks helped initiate the civil rights movement in the U.S. when she refused to give up her bus seat to a white man.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
Being curious and asking questions. Embracing a growth mindset. I focus on learning from every experience and adapting to new challenges as a key to my success.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Believe in yourself no matter what. Belief, an intangible force, is central to anyone’s success. Belief in oneself drives our actions, shapes our thoughts, and ultimately determines our outcomes.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
This is a tricky question because there are so many areas that need attention with regards to equality. But most relevant for your audience is gender pay gap and continuing to pursue leadership positions for more women. While there’s been a lot of progress, women are still underrepresented. In the US alone, there’s a record of 37 women leading Fortune 500 companies, representing 7.4% of the total. We need women helping women and men helping women to achieve true equality.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
Being a human leader that prioritizes culture creation and building teams to the benefit of everyone on the team. It makes any mission more fruitful and more enjoyable.

Where do you find your confidence?
By being myself.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
A sense of humor.

What brings you the most joy?
The simplest things, a beautiful sunrise, being with friends, a good laugh.

us.printemps.com

 

 

BRIANNE MANZ

Founder of Stroller in the City

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
1. My mom – she is the epitome of class and style. She always taught me if you want nice things, you need to work hard for them. And of course her constant support no matter what my ideas were or are, she is my number one cheerleader!

2. Andrea Scoli – she was my boss 20 years ago when I use to work for Laundry by Shelli Segal. She truly taught me what it means to be a powerful woman and to fight for what you believe in.

3. Rebecca Cohen from Loveshackfancy – I adore the brand that she has built so much, and just think she’s a brilliant businesswoman. Loveshackfancy truly inspires me beyond my love of fashion; it’s become a lifestyle for me.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
I have a crazy work ethic, and hustle each and every day to make things happen. I also won’t go to bed till every email is answered. Unread emails stress me out.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
This is something I tell my daughters frequently – believe in yourself, and anything is possible. I live by the motto where there is a will, there is way. And believe that anything can be achieved if you put your mind to it.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
Women’s rights, need I say more.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
Stroller In The City was born super organically, and that to me amazes me each and every day. I sold a fashion showroom to be a stay at home mom, and started Stroller In The City just to have a creative outlet. It is now way more than a full time job. I’m still shocked by its success daily.

Where do you find your confidence?
This is something I think I struggle with daily. We are always doubting ourselves whether it be in the work area or parenting our children. I think sometimes I need to take a step back and realize all of the things I’ve accomplished. I’ve learned confidence is something that can built and nurtured over time, it’s not something necessarily you are born with.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
I think a beautiful woman is kind, has compassion, is confident, is a girl’s girl, and authentic to herself. Beauty comes from within.

What brings you the most joy?
My children and traveling! Watching my children thrive, grow, and be happy is my number one priority. Traveling with them and seeing how they view the world through their eyes is just priceless to me.

strollerinthecity.com

@stollerinthecity

 

 

MARY WASSNER

Founder of Downtown Chic Mom

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
My mom, Laura, and sister, Katherine, mean everything to me. They have taught me to be strong and kind. They are loving and hard-working, and I will always look up to them. Second is one of my favorite doctors, Dr. Pena at Cornell. She really is such a wonderful person, and I value her and everything she does. Lastly, moms in general inspire me. It’s such a privilege to have a family, but it’s not an easy job.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
Well, thank you for that… success is a funny thing. People value success in different ways. I feel successful because I have found something I’m passionate about and that makes me happy in my life that means the most.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
My best advice would be to listen to yourself and trust in that, and not to worry about making everyone else happy. Also, speak up and be bold. You are worthy.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
We have come so far, yet there’s a long way to go… equal pay and benefits, discrimination. Taking away the rights of women regarding their own bodies. They are all so important

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
Being able to reach people and connect them with valuable information, whether it’s something to do with your family or a product that you need me the most joy is helping people

Where do you find your confidence?
I have learned that the value that I offer and I know I put a lot of passion and heart into everything I do and that gives me confidence knowing I’m doing the best I can.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
The most beautiful women to me are the ones who have a kind heart. I’m on the board of the children’s Museum in the East End and people forget that there’s a whole local community out in the Hamptons that are living below the poverty lines. I love working with this team of women to give back to the local community and the families struggling. These women dedicate their life to helping others and to me that is pure beauty.

What brings you the most joy?
Family, work, and definitely my dance class at Dancebody, I’m obsessed!!

downtownchicmoms.com

@downtownchicmoms

 

 

ASHLEY BOUDER

CEO/Artistic Director at Ashley Bouder Arts, Former Principal Dancer of NYC Ballet

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
1. Ruth Bader Ginsburg – RBG never gave up the fight for equal rights. I really respect that when she started out, she took cases that emphasized male rights to more perfectly show inequality under the law.
2. Hillary Clinton – Hillary was perhaps the most qualified presidential candidate in history. She excels on a truly global scale. And she coined the phrase “Women’s rights are human rights.”
3. Margot Robbie – Not only is she a phenomenal actress, she pushes and fights for what she believes in. She’s shown that women have deep and profound voices in Hollywood too.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
Hard work. I know I was blessed with a good amount of talent in my chosen field, but without putting in the work, it would not have amounted to much. I am surrounded by deeply dedicated artists, all pursuing a similar goal, so the atmosphere can be equally intoxicating and toxic. I find it necessary to keep my head down, my heart consistent, and my physicality persistent.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do it or don’t deserve it. I’ve been told that I’m difficult, that I’m not as good as I think I am, that my opinion simply doesn’t matter. All by men in leadership positions. It’s way too common an occurrence to think that I am special in any of those ways, but it is still emotionally traumatic and damaging each time it happens. My advice is to find strong women to lean on. To ask for help or to simply be able to share your experiences with. Don’t feel isolated or statements like that are true. They are usually more a reflection of who is saying them, not who they are said to.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
Opportunity and leadership positions. There needs to be a better pipeline for women to enter leadership roles. I’ve seen so many women with better credentials be passed over for leadership roles in favor of a male candidate. It is much easier to have a mentor of the same sex. Example: A male dancer wants to lead a company one day. The current director is male. The pair have drinks after work to talk and connect on the dancer’s desires for his future. Imagine if that dancer is a woman. Having drinks with a male boss? How do we mitigate this? I believe that we need more formalized ways to mentor young women within institutions, so the power and opportunity imbalance is changed.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
I am most proud of the impact I have had in promoting women choreographers and composers. And it’s something I will continue to do as long as I’m working in the arts. Until I formed my own company and commissioned new works myself, I had never danced to a piece of music by a woman. I was in my thirties! I still find it shocking. I spent the first half of my dancing career coasting along and not taking the time to really look at who was making the music and dance. I feel like once I started to take a leading role on my own, it hit me all at once, and I just cannot unsee the imbalance. All voices deserve to be heard. We must fix this.

Where do you find your confidence?
Oh, I don’t know about confidence. I think it’s the necessity of performing as a ballet dancer that helps. As a ballerina, I must be a top athlete, but also an artist. I can’t go out on stage and show all the difficulty on my face. I can’t hunch my shoulders like a football player to run fast. It’s all an act. I have to play the part even when there is no actual character to be and no storyline. It is still a mood, a persona that I have to don. I think that confidence comes from doing something even though you’re a little scared.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
Intelligence. A woman can be pretty in all the societally conventional ways. Hair, nice features, makeup, body shape, clothing, etc. But real beauty comes from being yourself, no matter how you present yourself to the world. I wish more women would realize that they are good enough for their dreams. Just the knowing of that, the intelligence of rational thought, makes every woman beautiful.

What brings you the most joy?
My daughter. She really lights up my life. I see her growing up as a strong, capable girl. It gives me a strong sense of duty and joy to guide her. I always openly talk to her and answer her questions, even when they are difficult. I try to keep very few things from her because I want her to understand how the world works and why, so she can help change it.

nycballet.com

@ashleybouder

@theashleybouderproject

 

 

KIRA MINKIS, M.D., Ph.D.

Weill Cornell Medicine

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
My mother is the most selfless, kindhearted, and hardworking person I know. Both of my grandmothers, who survived the Holocaust in Belarus, are also my heroes. As teens, they fled the Nazis, supported their families, and rebuilt their lives through education and perseverance—eventually pursuing careers in STEM. When the Soviet Union collapsed, my family left everything behind with just $200 and two suitcases to start over in America. My mom, a civil engineer, had to begin from scratch. Despite everything, she stayed grounded in gratitude and generosity. She taught me the importance of humility, compassion, and resilience—and that success should never come at the expense of kindness.

What is the secret to your success?
Passion, hard work, and the support of an incredible team. I’ve had phenomenal mentors and now feel privileged to give back by mentoring students, residents, and fellows. My husband has been a constant supporter, and my children inspire me every day. It truly takes a village.

If you were going to pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Pursue your passion and believe in yourself. You don’t have to sacrifice family for career—support systems can help create balance. Women are natural multitaskers, and we’re capable of achieving so much when we lean into both parts of our lives.

In the fight for equality, what area needs the most attention?
While we’ve made great progress—my NYU med school class was the first to be 50% female—there is still a lack of mentorship and leadership support for women in medicine. Burnout is a serious concern, and supporting female leadership is crucial.

What are you most proud of in your career?
Building a thriving clinical practice at Weill Cornell in Mohs surgery, cosmetic dermatology, and mentoring a new generation of physicians. I’m especially proud to have served as president of the Association of Academic Cosmetic Dermatologists, furthering research, education, and mentorship.

Where do you get your confidence?
It’s been a journey. Like many women, I’ve experienced impostor syndrome. But over time, patient outcomes, professional milestones, and seeing my mentees thrive have helped me trust in my abilities and recognize my impact.

What makes a woman beautiful?
True beauty comes from character. Strength, elegance, and kindness shine far brighter than any surface-level ideal. Beauty is found in embracing what makes us unique.

What gives you joy?
My family—my husband Daniel and our four children, Yoni, Adeline, Gabriella, and Daliya. I also love traveling, being outdoors, and finding meaning and joy in a career I deeply love.

weill.cornell.edu

 

 

DINA GAD, M.D.

Weill Cornell Medicine

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
My sister Sarah overcame opioid addiction and a criminal record to become a defense attorney and activist. Rather than hide her past, she uses it to help others with strength and empathy. I admire Martha Stewart for her boldness, from Wall Street to building a media empire and coming back stronger after her legal challenges. And Princess Diana, for her authenticity and emotional resilience—her ability to connect with people, and of course, her timeless style.

What is the secret to your success?
A strong work ethic, belief in myself, and incredible support from my parents and teachers. As a first-generation immigrant, I’ve always valued opportunity and perseverance.

If you were going to pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Be your own best friend. Show yourself the same love and support you give to others. Surround yourself with people who bring out your best and don’t measure your worth against unrealistic standards.

In the fight for equality, what area needs the most attention?
Reproductive rights. It’s shocking that in a country founded on liberty, laws can be passed that force people into life-altering decisions without regard for their personal autonomy.

What are you most proud of in your career?
Helping people through their most difficult times. There’s no greater honor than earning a patient’s trust and making a difference when it matters most.

Where do you get your confidence?
From life experience. Every challenge I’ve faced has helped me build resilience and self-belief. Confidence, for me, has been hard-earned.

What makes a woman beautiful?
There’s no single definition. Beauty is inherent in every woman—it lives in our individuality, in our essence. We’re beautiful by nature.

What gives you joy?
Being with those I love. Being fully present. Life is fleeting, but when you slow down, you realize how harmonious and beautiful the world can be. Also: animals. Nothing compares to the unconditional love of a pet.

weill.cornell.edu

 

 

MARIE-LAURE ROMNEY, M.D., M.B.A.

Senior Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital / Children’s Hospital of New York

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
My mom, Michelle Obama, and Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell. My mother raised my sister and me as a single parent while working two jobs. She taught me the importance of resilience, perseverance, and a work ethic. Michelle Obama inspires me with her authenticity—staying true to herself despite the pressures of public life. And I deeply admire Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman in America to receive a medical degree. She broke norms to pursue her dream and founded the first U.S. hospital staffed entirely by women, which eventually evolved into NewYork-Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital, where I now have the honor of serving as COO.

What is the secret to your success?
A strong support system. I am fortunate to be surrounded by people who uplift me and ensure that no important ball is dropped as I pursue my goals.

If you were going to pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Don’t obsess over the destination. Focus on enjoying the journey.

In the fight for equality, what area needs the most attention?
Education equity. A quality education should never be a privilege. Every child in this country deserves the same opportunity to learn and succeed.

What are you most proud of in your career?
The tireless work my team and I do every day to provide exceptional care to patients from all walks of life.

Where do you get your confidence?
From living by my values. That clarity helps me stay grounded and tune out negativity.

What makes a woman beautiful?
All women are beautiful, but the most beautiful are those who are fully comfortable in their own skin.

What gives you joy?
Spending quality time with my family and loved ones.

nyp.org

 

 

SHERREXCIA “REXY” ROLLE

CEO of Rexy Rolle (Western Air)

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
Shandrice Woodside, My Mom. My Mom has this superpower of making everyone she meets feel seen and cared for. Starting Western Air was her idea, and with her husband she built brick by brick. That layered personality motivates me because as women we are not one diminsional.
Two other women that inspire me are, Oprah Winfrey for utilizing her authentic self in business, in the best way possible. To do that as a black woman has inspired me most of my life. And Sara Blakely, the simplicity in the problem she was solving resonated with so many women. Her passion and relatability is inspiring.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
Consistency and flexibility are the keys. Being able to adapt with the market trends, yet providing a reliable service consistently has been at the root of our success.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
This, too, shall pass. Whatever your current stressors and anxiety inducing worries are, they won’t be the same two years from now. It truly does work out. Celebrate your small wins and chip away at big goals. Don’t allow it’s size to overwhelm you. In time it adds up.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
Cut the check. True equality can not be achieved without economic equality. Women are still making less and being passed on for the next promotion. That culture across various industries needs more attention.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of our flight launch between Grand Bahama and South Florida. It took alot of regulatory tape, but has proven so worth it and our passengers are loving the quick jet over between the locations.

Where do you find your confidence?
I once heard someone say, there’s no other you, enjoy being her. I think I’ve come to a point in my life that I truly believe that.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
Omg, confidence, authenticity, and kindness make for one stunning woman!

What brings you the most joy?
Internal joy comes from my faith in GOD. My friends & family give me joy. But also the simplicity of great takeout and a new TV series is seriously top tier joy.

westernairbahamas.com

@rexyrolle

 

 

RACHAEL LANSING

Co-Founder of Lunge Run Club

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
1. My mom, Debbie — My mom inspires me in her constant positivity and empathetic outlook on life. She strives to make everyone she comes in contact with feel important and heard. She has never made me feel anything less than loved and she reminds me that there is nothing I cannot conquer. She speaks up for what she believes in, advocates for herself and others, and she always sees the good in every situation and person.
2. Michelle Obama — I am inspired by Michelle Obama in her ability to speak confidently and how she encourages others using your voice to effect change, make a positive impact, and uplift others.
3. Tara Westover — Tara’s belief that only you can define your potential and no one can tell you what you’re capable of as well as her emphasis on the importance of education inspires me everyday.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
My secret to success is finding what you love to do and following it. Where there is passion, you will find success and fulfillment!

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Believe in yourself and your ability, and always advocate for yourself. Speak kindly, confidently, and unapologetically, and speak up. Own the space because you have every right to be where you are.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
Currently, I believe the most pressing matter in the fight for equality is supporting a woman’s right to make decisions for herself about her own body. At the root of this matter comes fighting misogynistic rhetoric. Educating the next generation of both men and women is crucial in this matter, especially in such a divided time.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
The community I have been able to create is the aspect of my career I am most proud of. I am proud of finding my passion and following it. This career has allowed me to create an incredible community and facilitate meaningful connections between the community across cities. I have always wanted to make a positive impact in people’s lives, and I am so proud to be able to do that.

Where do you find your confidence?
My confidence has come through my support systems, experience, and time. I speak to myself in the way I would speak about people I love, and that positive self-talk has been monumental in allowing me to truly believe in myself and my abilities in all settings.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
I believe a woman’s beauty comes from her resilience and the kindness she shows herself and others. Confidence, kindness, resilience, empathy, compassion, positivity, and curiosity are just some qualities that I feel define beauty.

What brings you the most joy?
I find joy in running, reading, snowboarding, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. On a larger scale, I find joy in meaningful connections with others and spreading positivity. I am grateful every day to live the life I do.

@lungerunclub

 

 

GILAT BARUCHI

MS, Professional Coach

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
The women who inspire me the most are my mom and two sisters. They are the strongest, most loving, self-made, and self-driven women I’ve ever known. They are always there for each other — supporting, comforting, and offering the best advice. I can always rely on them, whether I need guidance or simply someone to listen.

There are also women I don’t know personally but still look up to—especially the mothers of the hostages from the October 7th attack. One such woman is Rachel Goldberg-Polin, the mother of Hirsh Goldberg-Polin z”l. Despite the horrific loss of her son, who was murdered by Hamas terrorists, Rachel has continued her relentless fight for the release of her son and the other hostages. Even in the face of unimaginable agony, she continues to fight for justice with incredible strength and resilience.

What is the secret to your success?
Success, to me, means living a life that aligns with my core values—motherhood, family, kindness, and meaningful connection. I strive to help others, to be kind to myself, and to create a nurturing home for my four children and husband. These relationships are the foundation of a fulfilling life.

Professionally, I’ve spent over 25 years working with individuals and families in therapeutic, educational, and emergency settings. My goal has always been to promote emotional well-being and help others thrive.

If you were going to pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Prioritize daily movement and exercise—not just for your physical health, but for your emotional and mental well-being. It doesn’t have to be intense—even a short walk can lift your spirits. Build strong, consistent habits early on. It will help you stay energized, positive, and resilient as you grow.

In the fight for equality, what area needs the most attention?
Mental health and well-being for children and adolescents, especially those from lower-income backgrounds. These young people face significant barriers to support and care. We need more accessible, relatable mental health resources—spaces where they can build resilience, emotional skills, and confidence.

What are you most proud of in your career?
The transformations I’ve seen in my clients. From teens overcoming social anxiety to clients building healthier lives through new habits—witnessing their growth and success is my greatest reward. I’m especially proud when families reconnect, when communication replaces conflict, and when joy returns to a home.

Where do you get your confidence?
Confidence is a process—something I still work on. It’s not fixed. On tough days, I remind myself to do the best I can and accept the outcome. Every experience—good or bad—helps me grow. That growth builds real, grounded confidence.

What makes a woman beautiful?
Her energy, authenticity, and kindness. True beauty isn’t about looks—it’s how a woman embraces her uniqueness, connects with others, and radiates confidence by owning who she is.

What gives you joy?
Spending time with my family and friends, especially while being active—running, swimming, hiking, or dancing. I also love music and exploring new places. Whether in nature or wandering a city, I find joy in being fully present. But most of all, I find happiness in sharing these moments with the people I love.

 

 

JESSICA DRUCKER

Tourism Director, Lower Manhattan, Downtown Alliance of New York

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
Frida Kahlo, Hillary Clinton, and Taylor Swift. Frida experienced intense emotional and physical pain, yet remained true to her authentic self through her art. Hillary Clinton exemplifies persistence and grace in the face of setbacks. Taylor Swift has a rare ability to deeply connect with her fans and give back generously. Together, they each represent different facets of what it means to be a modern woman.

What is the secret to your success?
Persistence—never giving up on myself or the value of my ideas. Success often comes down to sticking with something longer than others are willing to. Curiosity is another key: the desire to keep learning, evolving, and growing rather than staying in a comfort zone.

If you were going to pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Find mentors, ask questions, and always trust your gut—especially if someone’s advice doesn’t sit right with you. Our instincts as women are powerful and deeply valuable.

In the fight for equality, what area needs the most attention?
People in positions of power need to recognize inequality and become part of the solution. Real change happens when the burden to fix injustice doesn’t rest solely on those experiencing it.

What are you most proud of in your career?
Launching the Lower Manhattan walking tour incubator, which blends my background in tourism with my passion for entrepreneurship and mentorship.
downtownny.com/incubator

Where do you get your confidence?
From getting back up again. Life is full of rejection, failure, and challenge, but continuing to rise after each fall builds a belief in your own resilience.

What makes a woman beautiful?
I’m not really comfortable answering this question. I don’t think a man would be asked the same thing.

What gives you joy?
An early morning coffee and solo walk in a new city—quietly observing and experiencing how people live and work around the world.

downtownny.com

 

 

JESSICA LAPPIN

President, Downtown Alliance New York

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
1. My mother, Joan Lappin, was a trailblazer on Wall Street in the 1960s and built her own successful firm while raising children as a single mom.
2. Carolyn Maloney, my former Congresswoman, was one of the first women to raise young kids while serving in the City Council and continued to be a fierce advocate throughout her career in Congress.
3. My close friend Rebecca Hobbs has faced endless adversity with incredible positivity and strength—her tenacity is deeply uplifting.

What is the secret to your success?
Setting clear boundaries to make space for both career and family. I love running and try to exercise most mornings, and I prioritize dinner with my kids, even if it’s late. That discipline creates balance.

If you were going to pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Keep perspective. Things often feel urgent in the moment, but few of them will matter in the long run. Breathe, do your best, and don’t try to do everything all at once.

In the fight for equality, what area needs the most attention?
Women’s rights in the U.S. have regressed in recent years. We must continue to fight for reproductive freedom, equal access to affordable childcare, and economic empowerment for women.

What are you most proud of in your career?
Leading environmental initiatives at the Downtown Alliance. From street-level recycling to citywide composting and containerization of waste, we’ve helped reshape habits that have a lasting impact on New York City.

Where do you get your confidence?
I was raised to believe I could achieve anything I worked for. While that’s not always literally true, it instilled a deep-rooted confidence that hard work pays off.

What makes a woman beautiful?
Grace, humor, and kindness.

What gives you joy?
Time with my family—whether we’re hiking, running, skiing, cooking, or traveling together, those moments are everything.

downtownny.com

 

 

NELLA MCOSKER

President/CEO of CCA (Central City Association of Los Angeles)

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
1. My mom is unapologetically herself in any room. I’m inspired by the way she lives out her deeply held beliefs, such as abating homelessness and building community. 

2. My sister has broken gender barriers her whole life. I’m inspired by her strength and courage as a firefighter, paired with the compassion and care she shows people in crisis. 

3. My sister-in-law built her career around environmentalism. I’m inspired by the way she addresses the climate crisis through practical, meaningful projects and client education.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
An unhealthy obsession with efficiency. There is simply never enough time to do all the things I want to do, so I keep honing my ability to complete goals while minimizing time, energy, and resources.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
For everything there is a season. What season are you in your life? How does that tell you where, how, and with whom to spend your time?

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
The answer lies in intersectionality: the women who experience multiple, layered forms of inequality or discrimination. Their experiences need the most attention.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
Several years out of college, I switched careers. I left classroom teaching to explore public policy work. I did a fellowship program, restarted at the bottom of the ladder in terms of pay and title, got every new opportunity from the last one, and built a new network. A decade later, it’s nice to look back at how that move led me here.

Where do you find your confidence?
My family shows love by teasing each other mercilessly. No one can burn me as hard as my immediate kin—and I know they love me—so no one outside that circle can ever really hurt my feelings all that much.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
Confidence. Humor. Grace. The right outfit for the occasion, which doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the most glamorous, but it fits just right and makes her feel like herself.

What brings you the most joy?
Without hesitation, my children. They humble me, crack me up, get on my last nerve, and give me the deepest joy imaginable.

ccala.org

 

 

MAUREEN “MO” HOLOHAN

Founder of Mo’ Motion

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
My father’s mother received a full academic scholarship at 17 years old — this was 80 years ago, so it was atypical, yet all those who knew her said she was brilliant. Her father told her that girls need to be at home and not in school. After teaching herself more than one language, how to play the piano, and scoring perfect grades, she got married to one of her first boyfriends, mostly to escape her father. She had 10 children and spent most of her life poor or just getting by. I think of her often, but not nearly as much as my mother and aunt, who were given a short list of career options — housewife, nurse, teacher, or nun. Many nuns at my mom’s school called her stupid, which breaks my heart when I think of how many people she loved and cared for as a nurse for 31 years before she battled dementia at 54. And my aunt probably could have been a doctor had someone told her she was smart and capable enough. What they both needed was encouragement, access, and exposure to role models to show them what was possible.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
I’ll never forget hearing my boss at one of my first jobs in youth basketball say to me, “You know what your problem is — you are overqualified and you care too much.” Within two years, my one team of seventh-grade boys turned into 24 teams. Manhattan’s parents recognized my academic and athletic pedigree and respected my passion for teaching all of the kids, not just the stronger kids. Our slogan is ‘EARN IT’ because that’s what I had to do for all of my life. The parents of our players know there is no basketball babysitting on my watch. They appreciate my drive and how much I believe in their kids.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Make your finances a priority early and consistently. Invest. Grow your money. Write down your goals and track them all. My mom would have qualified for public housing when she got sick, had it not been for my dad’s alimony. And when I was her caregiver, I started to realize that I was going broke, too. My mother was a nurse and a mother first, and too often she put everyone else, including her four kids, ahead of her own personal health and financial stability. I don’t have kids of my own, but I often see mothers who are in the jam of taking care of children and their parents. Their financial struggles are not spoken of often enough.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
We need more financial fairness and freedom. And it wouldn’t hurt to change “All men are created equal” in the US Constitution to “All people.” I am incredibly discouraged that we’ve gone 250 years without trusting one woman to lead our country, yet there are those who claim we are the greatest country in the free world. We will never be great until we are fair to women and respectful of those who hold up half the sky. It looks like it’s going to be a while.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
I’ve won a few writing awards, published books, and played in a few big games as a high school All-American and All-Big 10 player. The greatest moment of my basketball career was after my college career was over, and I put a summer league team together for a ProAm league that ran on the South Side, which is a mostly Black neighborhood with a storied history when it comes to hoops. We won a thrilling game in double OT with some of the best players in Chicago, who agreed to be on a team I put together. Our center’s boyfriend was the coach, and he did a great job letting us play. Our point guard won the Finals MVP after hitting two clutch shots. After she collected her award at the ceremony afterward, the directors of the league told me to wait a second. I said, “Why?” One said, “The coaches all voted to pick the best player in the league.” And then I heard my name called. There I was in shock, standing next to Tim Hardaway, the winner of the men’s ProAm MVP award. I looked up at a gym full of mostly black people who were kind of scratching their heads as if there was some mistake. The person on the microphone said, “No, really. She won it. Let’s give it up!” Everyone started cheering, and I started laughing. I’ve always considered that moment and achievement my greatest individual basketball accomplishment.

Where do you find your confidence?
I once quit basketball for a day in grade 5 when I was the only girl at basketball camp. The boys on my team were awful to me, yet I had a coach named Sam Perkins who was fresh off of winning a national title with Michael Jordan. Sam set up plays for me and rooted for me as I thrashed around, outworking every boy on my team. But the boys were awful to me at that one camp. I lied to my mom and told her I was sick the next day. By the end of that day, I was thoroughly disgusted with myself. I told myself that if I ever wanted to be like my cousin Pete, who played football at Notre Dame, I would only get there if I didn’t let petty people or their thoughts get in my way. Girls and boys alike saw me as a bit of a freak at the time. Eventually, I found my soul sisters — athletic, driven girls just like me. Once I started running with them, there was no looking back or letting anyone get in my way.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
The one who doesn’t care about what men think about her.

What brings you the most joy?
When any of the players in my program go into pre-medicine or med school. This past week, two best friends from fifth grade who have played for my basketball program for years prior and through the pandemic — now seniors in high school — texted me on the night they found out about college acceptances. One copied the other on the text and wrote, “We wanted to let you know that we just found out that both of us got into Harvard.” One girl lost her mother to cancer during her junior year. She wants to be an oncologist, and the other wants to be an OB-GYN. They referenced my strength and intelligence in their text message to me — as a role model. I cried for hours — tears of joy and maybe a touch of reconciliation. I thought that maybe I channeled my grandmother’s frustration at having been denied access to a career in medicine or law, or I subconsciously always think about how my aunt could have been a doctor, and the nuns who called my mother stupid and said she wouldn’t amount to anything. I can’t go back and change the paths of the females in my family who came before me. All I can do is make sure the ones in my huddle know that I will do everything I can to assure them that no one should ever be allowed to get in their way.

momotion.org

@momotionnyc

 

MARIA TODARO

Executive Director of Florida Grand Opera

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
1. Tina Vidal, our FGO president, she is strength and femininity, power and grace… very impressive woman—the warrior of today (seriously… not flattering).
2. Speaking of warrior, Caterine Sforza, renaissance female warrior would be my second—just again that paradox of force and femininity.
3. Esther in the Bible… for her remarkable intelligence, diplomacy, sensuality, and wisdom.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
I don’t focus on it… But I focus on being instrumental to the solution.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Find what connects you to your essence, your purpose. Surround yourself with people that will help you find your calling and nurture and encourage it in you. Express joy and gratitude, search for beauty everywhere—it’s an exercise that changes you and the people around you. It’s harder to always choose life versus death, to choose joy versus complaints… much braver… dare to be joyful! People misjudge this for naivety sometimes… but it is so much braver!

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
Maybe, as women, to teach and encourage men to be real men… to my experience, confident men are the most supportive and respectful of women.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
How much healing and positive transformation comes from offering proximity to opera and beauty.

Where do you find your confidence?
My faith.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
Her aptitude to be a true exhorter, encourager, and have poise.

What brings you the most joy?
So many things!! The list is too long… but I do enjoy particularly to feel things are moving and time is not wasted. I love bringing the best out of my actors when I stage direct but in general it gives me joy to help anyone find potential in them they did not know they had.

fgo.org

 

 

SURI KASIRER

Lobbyist / Consultant

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
1. Hillary Clinton, for breaking political barriers and showing resilience in public service
2. Ruth Bader Ginsburg, for advancing gender equality and leaving a lasting legal legacy
3. Martha Stewart, for her innovation in business and continued relevance at 83.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
Hard work, determination, and surrounding yourself with smart, inspiring people. Stay curious, adaptable, and open to learning from others.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
Breaking the glass ceiling. Women remain underrepresented in leadership roles and are still paid less than men. Addressing these inequities is essential.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
Hiring talented people and helping them grow. Watching others thrive because of opportunities I’ve been part of providing is incredibly rewarding.

Where do you find your confidence?
From knowing I’m doing the right thing and making a positive impact. Confidence grows through meaningful contributions and learning from challenges.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
Confidence and authenticity.

What brings you the most joy?
Accomplishing goals, making others happy, watching my kids grow into great people, and sharing good food and wine with loved ones.

kasirer.nyc

 

 

ROSALIND “ROZ” BREWER

Interim President of Spelman College

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
1. Marian Wright Edelman — Activist, Founder of the Children’s Defense Fund, and my Spelman Sister.
2. Melinda French — Philanthropist and Business Leader.
3. Katherine Johnson — NASA Mathematician.

Each of these women represents remarkable achievements that have provided a lasting impact through ground-breaking work even through the toughest societal barriers.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
I am a lifelong learner and problem solver. I tend to lean into the hardest problems to solve and enjoy taking people with me on the journey.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Celebrate even the smallest of wins. This is really important as we all tend to take on so much. The small wins grow into huge successes. Don’t miss the pit stops to applaud yourself and deepen your self-confidence.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
I believe that economic equality demands our most significant attention. The wealth gap is widening and work is needed to improve access to opportunities like affordable education and health care, jobs with growth opportunities and access to affordable housing. Prosperity can no longer be limited.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
My ability to raise two strong, very kind children while managing an enormous workload. They are by far my greatest accomplishment.

Where do you find your confidence?
My Mom and Dad showed me the importance of hard work and discipline. Both accomplished so much with very little education. They instilled in me the ability to be courageous and confident through long lectures from my Dad and my Mom, who were examples of grace and grit. She worked long hours and never missed a moment of love and care for my brothers and sisters.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
Her ability to be self-aware and carry her authenticity with pride. I enjoy seeing women press against the norms.

What brings you the most joy?
Being a servant leader. I have learned so much over my life and I just want to leave an impact wherever I am able.

spelman.edu

 

 

DR. IRIS NAVARRO MILLAN

Rheumatologist, Weill Cornell

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
I have to say three women very close to me. There have been many influential women, but the three that are alive and influence me positively are my mother—she showed me that it is important to be honest and say the truth no matter what. My sister’s determination and hard work are stellar and inspiring to me. She is like another mother to me, who deeply loves me and cares for me and her children. She taught me selflessness and the real meaning of love. My mentor, Monika Safford, taught me that it is ok not to be perfect, to focus on my strengths, not to overcome my weaknesses, and to be a better leader every day. It is important and our responsibility as physicians and scientists to lead and serve as role models to others. That is also part of our role.
These women taught me that “success is not achieved by celebrating victories but by overcoming failures.”

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
Agility. Being agile and adapting quickly is crucial. I have a saying, “fail quickly.” This means you shouldn’t be afraid of making the right decision or not—just take action. If you fail, you’ll learn and adapt, becoming more agile in the process. Overthinking wastes precious time. Often, the best way to determine your next step is to try the available options, learn from them, and if you fail, get up quickly and move on. When you move to the next step, you’ll have gained valuable experience from your failures, which will help you succeed.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
You do not need to know everything but to make sure that you learn from everything that you live. As a younger adult, I frequently felt embarrassed for not knowing something that I “should have known” by that time. The point was not that, the point was that I was given an opportunity to learn. This advice would have saved me time and anxiety in my younger years.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
There are so many things that are needed for gender, racial, and ethnic equality, so we could think in a big picture, the things that are needed or the small things that are needed in the short term, so that we can achieve the big picture goal. I have to say that we have neglected children significantly in this country by leaving them at high risk of death in schools, which is supposed to be a safe space, and by letting them become adults in a society where 56% cannot read at a level beyond 6th grade. That is also an inequality, and most of those children are from marginalized groups. Note that I am saying this, and I am the one without children. This should be even more concerning for parents. In the end, I summarize the next 4 steps for equality in the following way:

Research: Develop a research agenda that includes a clear understanding of the social determinants of health of individuals, how segregation kills, poverty, and poverty among older women; allow for research on gun violence, so that we can generate data that can inform policies that create a more equitable and safe society.

Involve: Everyone should get involved by working toward addressing issues of health inequities either in their work, community, or government. If we do not get involved, we are just having another empty conversation without action.

Policy: We need to demand our government equitable policies for our society in the area of education, health care, economy, social services, housing and food security, and equal pay for equal work.

Diversify: Diversifying the workforce of health care providers will be crucial. Their lived experiences will expand the knowledge that we have of the problems of our most vulnerable members of society. Hence, having representation of the most vulnerable members of society in leadership positions with voice and decision-making capacity can be revolutionary, and it is indeed needed. This is the mantra of “people like me with problems like mine.” This cannot be taught, it can only be lived.

I truly believe that participating in these efforts, not forgetting love, will help us reach equity in our society as a whole and have a cultural lasting change.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
The impact that we have on others every day. From getting people with rheumatic diseases to feel better, to inspire the next generation of physicians to be more than just physicians but decent and inspiring human beings. To see their growth and paying forward what they have learned from working with my team and me makes me feel like I am leading an entire revolution of kindness, compassion, competency, and, more importantly, love.

Where do you find your confidence?
From failures. Once I experience a failure and I see that it was not that bad, it gives me confidence. It is like speaking in a non-native language in front of people that are native in that language. You might sound like a 10-year-old, even though you are an adult, but it is that vulnerability that has helped me connect with the audience. Hence, I get confidence. It might not have been perfect, but it was meaningful.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
Everything. I think that is in part because we bring cohesiveness and union instead of superiority, like the alpha male beliefs. We do not get joy from feeling superior, but by rising together. I don’t know where this comes from, if from our motherhood roles or even the patriarchal culture, which led us women to work together so that we can rise. There is power in the numbers. In the end, we do not need to understand why everything makes a woman beautiful. The key is that our selflessness and ability to love and be emotionally available make us an important beacon of society for union and cohesion.

What brings you the most joy?
Many things. I would say that being with my family, my wife, my dogs, travel, reading, and music—both listening to and playing my instruments. I play piano, guitar, and bass guitar, and having an afternoon either reading or jamming at home is so magnificent to me. I also love traveling. Learning new things brings me an enormous amount of joy.

weill.cornell.edu

 

 

CHANDRIKA TANDON

Philanthropist, Grammy-winning singer

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
1. Sister Mary Nessan, a nun of the Franciscan missionaries of Mary and the Irish headmistress at my Holy Angels convent. I spent most of my formative years with her, and she taught me to speak, to not be afraid of any challenges, and what moral lines were never to be crossed. From her, I learned lessons on mentoring, the importance of higher education, ethics and integrity, and what it means to be in a life of service. I will be forever grateful to her for reaching beyond her comfort zone — she left the four walls of the convent to persuade my mother to send me to college, which set the course for my life going forward.
2. Lakshmi, a homemaker who lived in a hut in a small, poor village, who had never crossed the bridge to the next village. I went to visit her as part of my work, building up the craft sector in rural India. Her most prized possession was a silver lamp. She offered it to me and insisted on feeding me her family’s meal of the day. There is something profound about giving your day’s food and your most prized possession to strangers, because you want to express your gratitude.
3. Madame X is a stereotype, [a composite] of a few toxic women I have crossed paths with in my life. I have seen the unintended consequences of their behavior on their own happiness, on their friends and family, and on the generations that follow. It has taken me on a deep journey of introspection to make sure that I minimize toxicity in my interactions with others — hence my motto, “Love, Light, Laughter” as a daily reminder of how I would like to live.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
I don’t define success in terms of fame or fortune, but freedom to be oneself and to pursue what deeply inspires you. Secondly, moving from a framework of “I am a perfectionist” to a framework of “I am perfection,” and knowing that at each moment I’m doing my best and feeling happy about that space. Finally, moving from accidental living to intentional living — to be clear about what positive impact I want to make every day of my life, so time doesn’t pass me by.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
You are perfect at every minute, and don’t ever doubt that — don’t get into a conversation with yourself that you’re not good enough. You don’t need to be elsewhere — you are exactly where you need to be. The trajectory is long, time is fleeting, and the universe is conspiring to make you succeed.

In the fight for equality, what area needs the most attention?
No number of processes and procedures can fix the situation if women, and human beings in general, don’t have utter confidence and strength in themselves. For women, the change must start from within; we need to redefine our versions of ourselves as powerful, as courageous, as perfection. Let us assume that all people love us, that there is light in each and every one of us — salute that light and approach it with carefree joy, look at the world with a vision of “Love, Light, Laughter.” We cannot carry a chip on our shoulder or wear any labels that weaken us. I think it is important that we focus on a purpose higher than ourselves because it takes us away from obsessing about grievances and having a higher, more glorious vision of life. That will redefine how everybody interacts with each other and with us.

What are you most proud of in your career?
Not seeing boundaries at any stage in my life and therefore breaking them in an unseen, unknown way, I never saw a limitation of any kind. This allowed me to go from being a very culturally restricted woman in a small town in India, with no prospects other than marriage, to becoming a global citizen, with a lot of help from the universe, yes, but on my own steam. Looking back now, some of it seems almost foolhardy, but my life was never filled with fear. It was always based on a boundless vision.

Where do you get your confidence?
I went through a spiritual epiphany a couple of decades ago and in that process redefined myself. This crisis of spirit was a pivotal moment that came through introspection and self-inquiry, and led me to several practices like meditation and quieting the mind, and to things that give me joy, like music, service, and a purpose which is far, far bigger than me. The focus on me is gone, and that’s what gives me my strength. I spent a good part of my life accomplishing a lot, but being very stressed out and not really happy when I took a hard look inside. Now I don’t think about what I accomplish, or any end result; I try to enjoy the journey as much as possible. I operate with a clear understanding that my runway is short and focus on making my corner of the world better – what is even 80-90 years on a planet that has been around for billions of years?

What makes a woman beautiful?
Her inner self radiating Love, Light, Laughter.

What gives you joy?
Right now, what gives me joy is my music and meditation. My twin prongs, because I find the exploration of my consciousness through music, sound, resonance, and healing gives me the greatest joy. A few years ago, I would have said work and family but right now, at this stage of my life, it’s exploration of my consciousness and operating at the highest principles of that consciousness.

Now what I think about all the time is the visceral understanding that we are one and that we’re all bound by our humanity and love. Today, I’ve meditated for so many hours in different ways, and I feel joy thinking about it. That’s what allows me to live, to forgive, and to be joyful.

chandrikatandon.com

@chandrikatandon

 

 

GRACE MENG

NYC Congresswoman Representing the 6th District

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
I would really just name one person who has been a huge inspiration to me, and that is my grandma. Now 100 years old, she was the first in my family to come to America, and she helped raise me and my siblings while my parents worked long hours. She never went to high school or college and was never involved in politics. But she is one of the wisest people I have ever known. She learned English by watching soap operas, and the values and lessons I learned from her remain with me to this day.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
Being a good listener is crucial so that people know you understand their needs and concerns. I also believe people should treat others the way that they want to be treated. The quote often attributed to Maya Angelou is absolutely correct, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Know and appreciate the value you bring to a conversation. Just because your story and experience is different than those around you, doesn’t mean your words are any less important.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
Combating hate. So many different communities, especially many ethnic, religious, and minority populations, continue to endure disgusting acts of bigotry and violence. This is unconscionable and unacceptable, and in Congress, I have worked to address this intolerance. But more work remains, and we have to keep up the fight.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
There is certainly a lot to choose from, like passing pieces of legislation into law and securing millions of dollars for my congressional district. But I am extremely proud to be considered a trailblazer by becoming the very first – and only – Asian American Member of Congress from the entire State of New York.

Where do you find your confidence?
When I spend time with people—from my family to my constituents—I learn to understand them better, which gives me confidence.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
Kindness, compassion, and treating everybody with respect.

What brings you the most joy?
Helping constituents receive the assistance they require. Things like a veteran or senior obtaining healthcare thanks to legislation I helped to pass, small businesses succeeding due to money I obtained for local entrepreneurs to grow, or students being able to complete their schoolwork because of a program I created to increase internet access. Helping those I represent is one of the most satisfying parts of my job. I also love good food and spending time with my kids.

meng.house.gov

 

 

DR. LAURA ZENTGRAF

Postdoc at RWTH Aachen University & Owner of Zentgraf Coaching

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
Michelle Obama. She is educated, elegant, and simply classy. I would love to have coffee with her. Then, I also admire Gisele Pelicot. In my opinion, she is the female figure of 2024. She is a role model and an icon who has ensured that shame has switched sides. And finally, Taylor Swift. Whether you like her music or not, as a woman, she stands for something that seems absolutely aspirational for my generation.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
Balance. I love being a mother, and that would always be my first choice if I had to make one. But I am also Laura, who holds three degrees and loves her work and its challenges. And I am Laura, who is running her first marathon this year. Part of the secret is of course also my husband, who supports me in every endeavor. My generation is lucky to have so many hands-on dads.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
If it doesn’t feel right, say no. Prioritize yourself, whether in your career or personal life. It has nothing to do with selfishness or being unkind. It’s simply important to take care of yourself. There’s a reason why they say on airplanes: Put on your own mask first before helping others.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
Equal job opportunities for women. Germany has the highest gender pay gap in Europe, yet people still don’t talk about money. Additionally, childcare in Germany is poorly regulated because the caregivers—mostly women—have to work under difficult conditions. As a well-qualified mother, I sometimes have to turn down work because of this. It’s a vicious cycle.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
That I completed my doctoral dissertation despite having two children and a job. Of course, I was able to rely on my family and friends, but it was a true milestone for me personally. I wanted to prove it to myself.

Where do you find your confidence?
From the women around me. I am blessed with an amazing circle of female friends, all of whom are completely different. We support each other without envy or resentment, wearing pajamas on weekends and blazers with heels during the week. They are always there for me, no matter which version of myself I am at the moment.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
A kind soul, a good heart, no envy, and no resentment. Be a girl’s girl!

What brings you the most joy?
My family. I find immense joy in picking them up from kindergarten, exploring the world with them, laughing at their jokes, and being their go-to person in their little universe. But I also really appreciate time without the kids, just with my husband, enjoying a good meal. For example, having a simple schnitzel at the restaurant where we had our first date.

rwth-aachen.de

 

 

MICHELLE SCHEUMEISTER

CEO of Philanthrobee

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
1. My mom, Peggy. Her resilience and unwavering love in the face of hardship have been a guiding light throughout my life. She’s the embodiment of strength and selflessness, qualities I strive to emulate every day.
2. Leila Centner, my childhood friend. Leila’s rise from humble beginnings to creating a thriving empire dedicated to helping and healing others is nothing short of extraordinary. Her story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible with determination and heart.
3. Harriet Tubman. Reading about Harriet Tubman’s fearless leadership in grade school left a profound impact on me. She could have escaped to safety and never looked back, but instead, she risked everything to save others, knowing that with courage and a solid plan, she could do so much more. Her bravery is a timeless source of inspiration.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
The secret to my success is embracing discomfort. From a young age, I discovered that stepping outside my comfort zone is where true growth happens—it’s how I’ve learned, adapted, and thrived in every challenge life has thrown my way. Choosing the path of most resistance has become my personal brand because I know that struggle leads to strength and resilience. Comfort may feel safe, but it’s not where progress lives. I took a page out of Harriet’s book, and by intentionally seeking challenges, I’ve built a life defined by continuous learning and forward momentum for the greater good of humanity.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Work hard, be patient, and trust the process. At the start of any journey, focus on building your skills and proving your dedication through action, not noise. Resist the urge to seek validation too quickly—success isn’t about showing off at every opportunity, but about preparing yourself for the right moment to shine. The right opportunity will come, and when it does, your hard work and patience will ensure you’re ready to rise to the occasion with confidence, grace, and impact. Remember, a strong foundation sets the stage for a lasting legacy.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
The fight for equality begins with how we nurture the next generation. We must return to truly loving our children, teaching them the values of empathy, resilience, and accountability through both compassion and tough love. These lessons shape them into individuals who not only understand the importance of fairness but are also committed to creating a better, more just world for everyone. Being a good human costs nothing, but the impact it leaves behind is immeasurable. When we invest in raising kind, thoughtful, and courageous individuals, we set the foundation for a brighter, more equal future for all.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
Overcoming challenges (this is hard for me to talk to—lots of pain from the fire that helped blaze my trail).

Where do you find your confidence?
My confidence is rooted in a philosophy I hold close to my heart: Amor Fati—the love of fate. It’s about embracing both the good and the bad as essential parts of your journey, facing challenges with a positive outlook, and recognizing that even the hardest moments shape your personal growth. Confidence, for me, comes from the small victories, the lessons learned from failures, and the humility to understand that even in the worst times, someone may have it harder. I’ve drawn inspiration from my mother’s resilience and her mistakes, using those experiences to fuel my strength and prepare for the next chapter in life’s story. It’s a constant reminder to keep the fire of love and determination burning, no matter what.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
A woman is beautiful when she creates something out of love and passion for the pure joy of knowing that someone on the other end is loving it or enjoying it.

What brings you the most joy?
What brings me the greatest joy is crafting experiences that leave a lasting impact on others. Whether it’s as simple as seeing the pure delight on my nephew’s face during a ride at Disneyland or curating a thoughtful moment that lingers in someone’s memory, it’s all about the details. I pour my heart into creating moments that feel special, intentional, and full of care—experiences that make people smile long after they’ve passed. To me, joy is about connection, about making others feel seen, valued, and happy in a way that they’ll carry with them forever. Creating those unforgettable experiences is my passion and my gift, and I try to bring that same sentiment to everything I do and everything I create.

philanthrobee.com

@philanthrobeeskincare

 

 

SHELLEY SIMPSON

CEO of MUD Australia

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
There are so many incredible women out there. At different stages of your life, people come into focus as benchmarks and beacons for what’s possible and how you might do things.
1. One woman that immediately comes to mind is my mother-in-law Jane Kirton, who had a fulfilling academic career, raised three children on her own, endured a lot of grief and tragedy and still manages to be a delightful, effective, empathetic and generous human.
2. My daughter Violette is emblematic of a lot of younger women I meet, who are smart, largely confident and capable and seem to do it, whatever that may be, with a level of ease and comfort I didn’t have in my youth. This gives me hope.
3. Nigella Lawson, the UK author and cook, who I consider a good friend, is whip smart, funny, generous, and encouraging to a fault, and the best host and cook, not just to me but, I’m pretty sure, to a lot of people. She seems a little infinite with her abilities and largesse for friendship and as a mentor.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
Nothing is achieved or accomplished in isolation. My journey involves a lot of people who have helped and help me daily. A certain resilience, determination and singular belief in what we’re doing as well being prepared to work hard and long has definitely been an ingredient.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
I always emphasise to anyone to do the hardest thing first. Specifically on gender I would say to look forward to the wisdom and grace that age hopefully will bring.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
Access to education for everyone in a way that doesn’t discriminate against opportunities based on wealth, gender or race—is this possible?

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
Being in a position where I’m able to implement and influence my values into workplace practices—environmental, cultural and ethical.

Where do you find your confidence?
Confidence is in practice and repetition, knowing your limitations, and having peers and colleagues who have each other’s best interests at heart.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
Any woman fully engaged in a moment and an activity.

What brings you the most joy?
Things in nice straight lines, family, walking the dog—in no particular order.

mudaustralia.com

 

 

JEN GREGORY

Director, Netherlands Board of Tourism & Conventions (NBTC), North America

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
Three women who inspire me are Oprah Winfrey, Greta Thunberg, and my Aunt June. Oprah’s ability to connect with others and ask thoughtful questions is remarkable, while Greta is driving urgent climate action, and my Aunt June has had the most personal impact—her postcards from around the world sparked my love for travel, and she took me on my first international trip at 13. She’s a lifelong athlete (who still outpaces me on a bike and skis), a finance professional with an eye for the big picture, and has inspired me to create a women’s book club that blends reading and travel, just like she did. Now, as an aunt, I send postcards to my niece and nephews to inspire their sense of adventure, too.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
The secret to my success lies in the support I’ve received from teachers, mentors, sponsors, family, and friends who genuinely care about my growth. Their encouragement has been invaluable. I also credit my adaptability, patience, curiosity, intuition, and a deep trust in myself and the decisions that lead to fulfillment.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Think long-term. The more you consider the lasting impact of your decisions, the better your outcomes will be in your health, career, relationships, investing, and every aspect of life.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
Pay and growth transparency need urgent attention, as many organizations lack clear paths for advancement and transparent salary bands. It’s crucial to take initiative by driving these conversations and seeking guidance from mentors, sponsors, and coaches. University alumni networks, career councils, and professional associations are fantastic resources for building a strong support system.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of learning to set and maintain boundaries, which has been crucial for my personal and professional growth. Before joining NBTC, I took a 14-month sabbatical to recharge and reflect, travel, and reconnect with family and mentors. This time allowed me to realign with my values, ensuring I can show up as my best self.

Where do you find your confidence?
I get confidence from continuing education, a close core group of friends, and the experience of failing and getting back up again. Work and life become more enjoyable when I approach new challenges with a playful mindset. While I can’t control others or the world around me, I always trust myself to find a way forward.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
Coco Chanel said it best: “Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.” There’s something magnetic about a woman who is authentic and stays true to who she is.

What brings you the most joy?
Exploring new cities through local dance communities brings me immense joy. I began studying classical dance at four, danced professionally, and now embrace salsa and bachata. When traveling, I connect with locals through the Latin dance scene, immersing myself in the culture and building friendships worldwide.

nbtc.nl/en

 

 

RACHEL COHEN

Acting VP, Paratransit

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
My grandmother. She just turned 97 years old last week, and she is still studying the world around her, looking for opportunities to make things better. She’s been mobilizing people to vote for decades, and was an environmentalist before most people knew what that was. She’s shown me what it means to be truly engaged with your community and country, and committed to making it a better place, however that looks to you. It’s a legacy my mom has carried on in her own professional and personal life, and one I hope to carry as well.

I am also lucky to have had 2 strong, inspiring women as my first two bosses, at 2 non-profits I worked for in Washington, DC, at the start of my career. Both were strong female leaders who led organizations and also mentored young professionals like me. They showed me, through their own work, how to engage people at all levels of an organization, how to be a leader without necessarily being the loudest person in the room, and how to work month after month and year after year toward important goals without getting burned out. Barb, Michelle – thank you!

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
Staying focused at work, so that I can deliver and do it sustainably. I work hard, but I also work smart – I try to make really clear what goals and priorities I am committed to delivering, and then demonstrate that I can engage the right team to deliver those specific things. I try not to “keep score” of who spent the most hours in the office or got the most face time with the boss or credit in the press, I let my work do the talking. If you work hard and deliver, the recognition will come. By the same token, when I’m not at work, I try – though it’s a work in progress! – to put down my phone and focus on my family and friends. There will always be more work to do tomorrow, and it’s important as a leader to be available whenever needed, but also realize that it’s critical to give attention to your relationships and your life outside of work. As someone with a partner also in a very demanding job and two young kids at home, that’s one of the ways I try to find balance and sustainability.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Ask the people around you how you can improve. It’s not a sign of weakness to take constructive feedback, it’s a sign of strength, and it’s not the same as asking for help or feedback on any given project. Whether from your bosses, your peers, or even people that you manage, you can always take away ideas of ways you can strengthen your relationships with the people you work with and be a stronger contributor. It’s great to know your strengths, but I think it’s equally critical to be open to understanding your weaknesses and thinking about how you can work on them or balance them.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
Accessibility for people with disabilities is clearly one of the defining civil rights issues of our time, and I’m proud to be working professionally in this area. When it comes to equality for women and women in the workforce, though, I’d say family-supporting policies. FMLA is an important safeguard, but it has to be seen as the floor and not the ceiling. If we want New Yorkers to be able to stay and raise families in the City, and for moms and parents to be full participants in the workforce, we need leave policies that allow women – and parents and caregivers in general – to be able to temporarily step away from their career without putting their financial stability in peril, and to make smart choices that work for them and their families as they go back to work. It’s encouraging to see more people talking seriously about this issue here in New York City – the issue is complicated, and I don’t think there are easy answers – but we can’t ignore it.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
In the 6 years I’ve been at the MTA, I have seen the conversation about accessibility move forward by leaps and bounds. Yes, we have a legal settlement for subway station accessibility, but it’s much more than that. We’re at a moment of real culture change when it comes to both organizational leadership on this issue and a movement across the whole agency of understanding and embracing the opportunity inherent in building, or rebuilding, a system to be truly accessible. That means accessibility for those with mobility disabilities, but also to people with hearing or visual disabilities, families with kids in strollers, or visitors or workers simply moving luggage or carts around the system. As a member of the New York City Transit Systemwide Accessibility group at its founding, I’m proud to have played a role in this larger change – building on the work of many before us of course – pushing every day to ensure accessibility really is a priority for the agency, not just in rhetoric but in investments, policy decisions, and even our own hiring and employee training.

Where do you find your confidence?
I have been very lucky to have a tremendous amount of support in my career, from my partner, family, friends, bosses, and mentors. I’ve had people see potential in me that I didn’t yet see in myself, but over time, I’ve come to realize that I have the opportunity to contribute to some really important progress here in New York City, especially when it comes to making our transportation system more accessible. Working with strong teams and strong partners who have enabled my success has given me the confidence to speak up when I have ideas, make recommendations when I see opportunities to do things differently or better, and drive forward change.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
Having the confidence to speak up and work for change, and the grace to know it never happens quickly!

What brings you the most joy?
My family, and being active with them. When I’m not at work (which does bring me some real joy!), I’m running around at the playground with my kids, seeing live music with my husband, or going for a run through Prospect Park or Brooklyn Bridge Park. I love New York City, and having the opportunity to have a job and career that serves the City and raise a family here is incredible. New York City is this unique social experiment,t and it certainly is far from perfect, but as I move around the city every day and get to show my kids what it means to be part of this place, I feel joy and gratitude for these opportunities, and that motivates me as well.

mta.info

 

 

ERIN MULLIGAN HELGREN

CEO of Office Space Software, Director of Skyline Champion Corporation, Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc.

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
1. My mom. I was inspired by my mom’s resilience in life, but what was exceptional about her was her empathy and compassion for others, and how she used her voice to advocate for what she thought was right in the world, even when it was unpopular or hard. She taught me how important it is to know what you believe in and to fight for others when your voice can be louder than theirs.
2. Simone Biles. Not only has she worked relentlessly since she was a child to become the greatest of all time in the sport of gymnastics, but she was also brave enough to walk away when she knew she needed to focus on her mental health. She was so maligned by so many “fans” and spectators – many said she was too weak, that she was a failure, that she was immature and selfish. But she came back roaring and better than ever. She’s an incredible model for shutting out the noise and doing what you know in your heart is right for you.
3. Ann Richards was a trailblazing politician who served as the 45th Governor of Texas (my home state), becoming a powerful symbol of progressive leadership in a male-dominated field in a historically conservative state. She was an early champion of diversity, appointing incredible women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals to government positions, ensuring broader representation. She was a fierce advocate for public education, prison reform, and healthcare, which she knew could lift marginalized communities. She was incredibly authentic, openly sharing her challenges with alcoholism and embracing recovery, inspiring countless people. She was a true model for leading with empathy and authenticity.

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
I have a never-ending need to prove my worth. I’ve always reached for hard things, and there has always been this voice in my head that said “you don’t belong here, you’re not good enough” – starting with my very first role out of college. While imposter syndrome can be destabilizing, if you let it be, I’ve found that thinking I need to prove myself has helped me build resilience, have empathy for others, encourage creative thinking, and drive for improvement. Last, it keeps me grounded, which I think all good leaders must be.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Don’t be afraid to use your voice, take up space, and advocate for yourself. Confidence grows through action. Even when you feel unsure, take that step because it’s how you’ll build courage to keep going

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
The fight for economic equality needs the most attention, particularly in addressing the gender pay gap and access to leadership opportunities. While progress has been made, women—especially women of color—still earn significantly less than men for the same work, face barriers to funding for businesses, and are underrepresented in executive and boardroom positions.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
I’ve benefited from leaders who focused on developing me from very early in my career, and I’ve paid that forward and made it a priority to spend my own energy developing others. I’m proud to look at the career successes of many people who have worked for me – some in very early stages of their careers – and to see them now in meaningful C-level and board roles across the world – and to know I played some role in helping them achieve their ambitions.

Where do you find your confidence?
For me, confidence comes from doing – achieving successes (even if they’re small) and building on them. It also comes from failing. I’ve learned that I can handle challenges (even big ones) and that I’ll learn, I’ll be resilient, and I’ll come back stronger. Last, confidence comes from authenticity. I’m not trying to be someone I’m not, and that’s really freeing. I recognize and lean into what makes me unique.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
Confidence and grace

What brings you the most joy?
My family. I have an incredible husband who is the love of my life. I found him later in life and this is our second marriage, but he was so worth the wait! And I have two amazing sons, who are 21 and 24 years old. They’ve grown into confident, caring humans that bring joy to everyone around them. I’m delighted seeing them envision and accomplish their dreams in life.

officespacesoftware.com

rymanhp.com

ir.championhomes.com

 

 

CÉLINE KAPLAN

Publicist, CKPR, Co-Founder of Out Of Office Forever

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
1. Marie Curie for her amazing contribution to world health
2. Maya Angelou for her words and empathy
3. Jordan Casteel for her work and use of colors
And most importantly, all of my girl friends who never fail to inspire me

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
Still looking – let me know if you find it….
But in the meantime, Confucius said it best—choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Listen always and don’t burn bridges—it is a long life.
Find community and support around you, this is the foundation to your success.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
All of it—but at the moment, in the US, reproductive rights are top of mind. I feel this shouldn’t even be a topic any longer—women should have the right to make their own decisions about their bodies. End of conversation.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
Right now, I am especially proud of the name of the new business venture I co-founded with my partner Elisabeth Holder, OOOF, which means Out Of Office Forever… and of course, my eponymous communications agency and team. We build brands one story at a time, adapting to the ever-changing landscape of the industry. Next steps: travel and hospitality… putting it into the universe.

Where do you find your confidence?
Really it is more of a fake it until you make it… and I wear stacks and stacks of jewelry (a la Lori Hirshleifer), which serves as an armor and conversation piece…

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
Spirit, humor, empathy, and, of course, jewelry

What brings you the most joy?
Travel travel travel

celinekaplanpr.com

ooof.community

@celinekaplanpr

 

 

ELISABETH HOLDER

Co-Founder of Out Of Office Forever

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
1. Audrey Hepburn—for her style, her engagement
2. Simone Weil—a French philosopher and political activist, a survivor of the Shoah, who helped shape abortion laws
3. Marie Curie—the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the first to win it twice!

What do you believe is the secret to your success?
A good education with great values, the energy and love of my kids, and my determination!

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Never let anyone intimidate you or tell you that you can’t do it.

In the fight for equality, which area do you think needs the most attention?
Respect—there are still many macho mindsets, even when disguised as jokes.

What achievement in your career are you most proud of?
When my former employees, colleagues, and interns are still grateful for having worked with me, and tell me it was such a great experience.

Where do you find your confidence?
When I look at my journey, I feel proud, and it gives me confidence. Also, in the eyes of my female friends, sisterhood is powerful.

In your opinion, what makes a woman truly beautiful?
Acting gracefully makes people beautiful—doing good deeds, being thoughtful towards others, and making time for sports!

What brings you the most joy?
My kids for sure, my friends, art and culture, and a good plate of cheese.

ooof.community

 

 

ERICA CAPOBIANCO

Owner of ES Drapery & Design

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
1. My “GG,” my grandmother on my mother’s side, has been a constant source of inspiration. She lived near me from the day I was born and was always there for me, no matter what. Her unwavering encouragement helped me face my fears, and her generosity—despite having little for herself—taught me the true meaning of giving. She also had an incredible ability to make me laugh, even in tough times.
2. My mother has also been a powerful influence. She taught me to never give up and to never take no for an answer, instilling in me a strong sense of determination and resilience.
3. Two other women who shaped my perspective growing up were Barbara Walters and Lucille Ball. Lucille Ball, a pioneer in comedy, was the first woman to head a production studio. Barbara Walters broke barriers in journalism as the first woman to co-anchor a national news broadcast. Both women inspired me to believe in perseverance, confidence, and the power of trailblazing.

What is the secret to your success?
Hard work and determination. I believe in treating clients with respect, honoring my commitments, and consistently delivering on my promises.

If you were going to pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
No matter what happens in life, or how bad it seems, life goes on, and tomorrow will bring a new day.

In the fight for equality, what area needs the most attention?
Women should have access to every opportunity that men have. Equality means creating a level playing field where women can succeed and thrive.

What are you most proud of in your career?
I’m most proud of maintaining strong, respectful relationships with my clients and vendors. It’s incredibly rewarding that my very first clients still return to me for their interior design needs.

Where do you get your confidence?
From my mother. She taught me that no matter the challenge, there is always a solution, and to never give up. The love, wisdom, and work ethic of both my mother and grandmother have been my foundation.

What makes a woman beautiful?
True beauty lies in how gracious a woman is with everyone she encounters.

What gives you joy?
My sons, home, family, career, and two dogs. I love cooking, music, and hosting themed parties for family and friends. They are my sanctuary and my source of happiness.

esdrapery.com

@e.s.drapery

 

 

MICHELINE NADER

BSN, MPH, DESS, President of Jesra Foundation, INC., Bestselling Author

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
1. Ruth Bader Ginsburg: Her groundbreaking influence on gender equality and legal justice in the U.S. remains transformative.
2. Simone de Beauvoir: Her pioneering feminist work exposed societal norms and laid the foundation for modern feminist thought.
3. Oprah Winfrey: Her authenticity, resilience, and dedication to empowering others continue to inspire my own journey.

What is the secret to your success?
Pursuing passion in everything I do. My mission is to empower leaders to integrate leadership strategy, emotional intelligence, and the ethical use of technology, while staying grounded in human values.

If you could pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Find your passion and contribute it to the world, regardless of societal constraints.

In the fight for equality, what area needs the most attention?
Empowering women through education and leadership. Broadening access to both can drive profound social change. My LEAP framework (Lean, Execute, Align, Program) supports this mission.

What are you most proud of in your career?
Empowering others, my healthcare entrepreneurial journey, philanthropic contributions, and guiding others to conscious leadership through my books and speaking engagements.

Where do you find your confidence?
From purpose-driven action, personal growth, and helping others discover their potential. My authenticity and commitment to meaningful work fuel my confidence.

What makes a woman beautiful?
Living in purposeful flow—with ease, peace, creativity, and spiritual freedom. Beauty is about self-expression, playfulness, and the ability to manifest joy.

What gives you joy?
Authentic connection, dancing, nature, music, sunsets, and sharing meaningful moments with others—especially children and animals. Embracing life’s full spectrum brings me the most joy.

go.michelinenader.com

@michelinenaderofficial

 

 

ALISON BUECHNER HOJBJERG

Co-Owner of Quinta Properties Savills

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
1. My 85-year-old mother: strong, determined, outspoken, beautiful, and a true warrior.
2. My guardian angel: she sits quietly on my shoulder and shows me the way.
3. My yoga teacher: she teaches me to sit and breathe in peace.

What is the secret to your success?
Exceptionally determined never ever to be financially dependent on a man. Total dedication and hard work.

If you were going to pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Don’t make your happiness dependent on your partner. Follow your intuition. If he doesn’t let you follow it, let him go. Run ahead!

In the fight for equality, what area needs the most attention?
In my world, women are equal to men. I’ve never been belittled or felt I needed to fight for equality. In life, you get what you accept. Don’t accept inequality.

What are you most proud of in your career?
I’m proud that we are now a team of nearly 40 professionals. From being known as the “Quinta Girls” (our entire team was women), we now have men too, and they are all a privilege to work with. We deal with some of the most spectacular properties in Portugal. I couldn’t imagine where I’d rather live, and I’m proud to call this my home.

Where do you get your confidence?
I was born confident. The women in my family were—and are—all warriors!

What makes a woman beautiful?
Her kindness.

What gives you joy?
Spending time with my three daughters and my grandchildren.

quintaproperty.com

 

 

CORINNE CROCE

Physical Therapist, Co-Founder of Body Evolved

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
I can’t narrow it down to just three names. I’m inspired daily by the women in my life. First, my two sisters and my late mother—they are my foundation. Their strength, grace, and the way they show up for others without judgment taught me what it means to love, support, and lead. Next, my circle of incredible friends—entrepreneurs, caretakers, creatives, founders, coaches, and professionals. These women do it all, and their wisdom, success, and friendship shape who I am. Lastly, I’m inspired by women who build businesses with their friends. Watching my best friends—co-founders of Generation Love Clothing—and the female leaders I met at SoulCycle proved that combining friendship with business can be a true superpower.

What is the secret to your success?
Authenticity. I show up fully as myself, and that builds the trust essential to the wellness space. When people feel safe and seen, healing can happen. That trust and connection, fueled by being real, have been the key to growing my practice and community.

If you were going to pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Go for it. My mom always said, “dare to dream,” and that mindset encouraged me to bet on myself. I’d also add: invest in your personal growth. That’s what builds confidence and makes space for limitless possibility.

In the fight for equality, what area needs the most attention?
We need to break down the limiting roles and lower standards society often places on women. We deserve equal access to every opportunity, paycheck, and right, period.

What are you most proud of in your career?
The relationships I’ve built and the environment we’ve created at Body Evolved. My business partner and I set out to change the way people approach injury recovery and wellness. We’ve built a space filled with laughter, connection, and non-restrictive energy. It’s a joy to watch people feel better, grow stronger, and be themselves in our space.

Where do you get your confidence?
It grows with self-awareness and continued learning. I don’t always feel confident, but I believe showing up, growing, and being open to development builds true confidence over time.

What makes a woman truly beautiful?
Comfort in her own skin. A woman is beautiful when she’s doing what she loves, forming meaningful connections, and not waiting on anyone else to bring her joy. That inner glow shines brightest.

What gives you joy?
Relationships. The people in my life—at home, at work, and in friendship—are the source of every joyful moment. They are my reason, my support system, and my daily inspiration.

bodyevolvednyc.com

@bodyevolvednyc

 

 

ANTARA DUTTA

Financier, Author of Humanity Drives Technology

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
I’m inspired by three trailblazing women who redefined what’s possible: Ada Lovelace, Kiran Bedi, and Christiane Amanpour.

1. Ada Lovelace imagined a world where machines could go beyond calculations—she wrote the first algorithm and became the world’s first computer programmer, defying expectations in science and math.
2. Kiran Bedi shattered glass ceilings as the first woman in the Indian Police Service and introduced transformative prison reforms. Her courage and pursuit of justice reshaped public service in India.
3. Christiane Amanpour’s fearless journalism—especially from war zones—has elevated truth and given voice to the unheard. Her commitment to integrity and impact through storytelling is a masterclass in modern leadership.

What is the secret to your success?
Curiosity and persistence. I have a “flip every rock” mindset that keeps me poking at mysteries and turning wild ideas into real solutions. I love proving that what looks impossible just needs a different lens—and maybe a bit more imagination. I don’t chase trophies. I chase breakthroughs.

If you were going to pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Chase what excites you, not what impresses others. Light yourself up from the inside. Fail a little, explore a lot, and keep experimenting until you find your spark. Authenticity is your superpower. Own it.

In the fight for equality, what area needs the most attention?
We have to start at home. The most stubborn myth holding women back is that homemaking is a default setting. We need to redistribute the “mental load”—the invisible, exhausting labor of remembering, organizing, and maintaining life. Until that changes, equality will always be incomplete.

What are you most proud of in your career?
I’m proudest of being the go-to person when everything’s falling apart. I’ve helped friends and colleagues through crises, career meltdowns, financial chaos—you name it. My brand? Resilience with a battle plan and a pep talk. Helping people pivot and rebuild is the legacy I value most.

Where do you get your confidence?
From messing up and moving on. I treat failure like the first pancake—it’s always weird but part of the process. I surround myself with people who embrace growth, learning, and laughing through chaos. Confidence doesn’t mean knowing everything—it means trusting we’ll figure it out.

What makes a woman truly beautiful?
The smile in her eyes. When a woman radiates kindness, strength, and love through her presence, it stays with you. Her light is in how she makes others feel—and how she lifts them along the way.

What gives you the most joy?
Long drives through nature with my husband, talking through big ideas. We brainstorm, problem-solve, and dream—surrounded by beauty and driven by curiosity. It’s where intellect, creativity, and connection come together. Those moments are everything.

humanitydrivestechnology.com

 

 

BLANDINE PAIRET

Head of Americas YouTube Strategy & Operations

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
My mother, for her adaptability, creativity, and grace. Growing up, we moved countries often, and she seamlessly transitioned our family through different cultures while making us feel supported and at home. My sisters, for being unapologetic go-getters who are passionate, kind, and generous. I’m in constant admiration of their drive and authenticity. And my boss, Aedin, who had an incredible ability to see potential in others and invest in growing it. That’s something I try to emulate now as a leader.

What is the secret to your success?
A combination of an innate desire to learn, a healthy dose of ambition, and a bit of luck—being in the right place at the right time.

If you were going to pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
It’s perfectly okay not to know what you want to be doing or where you want to end up in ten years. Some of the most fulfilling chapters of my career were the ones I didn’t see coming. Let the unpredictability of your path be part of the adventure.

In the fight for equality, what area needs the most attention?
There’s still so much to address—representation in leadership, the pay gap, the disproportionate burden of caregiving—but one area I think deserves more attention is the invisible mental load women carry. The planning, remembering, organizing—it’s unseen, constant, and draining. Recognizing and redistributing this labor more equitably is essential.

What are you most proud of in your career?
Taking on my first Chief of Staff role. It was unstructured and came with warnings about the toll it might take, but it turned out to be the best decision I ever made. It challenged me, gave me exposure, built my confidence, and allowed me to shape something meaningful. Watching the team evolve into a true center of excellence has been incredibly rewarding.

Where do you get your confidence?
From resilience. I’ve navigated my share of ups and downs, and each time I’ve picked myself back up, I’ve reinforced the belief that I can handle what’s ahead. That inner strength fuels my confidence.

What makes a woman truly beautiful?
Confidence, strength, grace, kindness, and vulnerability. The harmony of all those qualities is powerful.

What gives you the most joy?
Sunny Saturday mornings, walking to a new neighborhood coffee shop with my husband and daughter. Simple, quiet moments together—that’s where joy lives.

 

 

RACHEL LIVERMAN

Founder & CEO, Glowbar

 

Name three women who inspire you and share why they’ve made such an impact.
1. My grandmother, Catherine Hinds, was a true pioneer—introducing esthetics to the U.S. before skincare was even a thing, and at a time when women weren’t encouraged to pursue careers. Her trailblazing spirit laid the foundation for everything I do.
2. My mom, An Hinds, is fearless and fiercely supportive. She’s shown me from a young age that anything is possible, and she continues to be my biggest cheerleader.
3. Sara Blakely is another major inspiration. She saw a gap in the market and built a global brand from scratch, while staying authentic and approachable. Her journey resonates with me deeply.

What is the secret to your success?
Trusting my gut and knowing when to ask for help. Every major decision—from signing the lease for our first Glowbar studio to choosing our growth trajectory—has been guided by instinct. But I also lean heavily on mentors, peers, and my team for insight and support when it counts.

If you were going to pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Seek out people who’ve done what you want to do—learning from them is one of your greatest assets. Asking for help is not a weakness—it’s a strength.

In the fight for equality, what area needs the most attention?
Women’s rights. We’re watching them being chipped away in real time, and we need to fight to ensure every woman has the freedom to choose what her body, career, and future look like. Equality isn’t just about opportunity—it’s about access and autonomy.

What are you most proud of in your career?
Building a company that gives confidence to our clients, our team, and our communities. Confidence is the key to living a full, empowered life—and I’m proud that every Glowbar facial plays a small role in helping people feel their best.

Where do you get your confidence?
From embracing new experiences. I’ve found that success is usually just on the other side of your comfort zone.

What makes a woman truly beautiful?
Her heart.

What gives you the most joy?
Helping others. Whether it’s a kind word, a gesture of support, or sharing knowledge, nothing feels more fulfilling than making a positive impact. When you feel good, you do good—and that ripple effect is everything.

glowbar.com

@glowbar