Women Who Lead: The 2025 CNBC Changemakers and Their Impact
February 24, 2025, 9:53 pm
Location: Romania, Bucharest
Employees: 10001+
Founded date: 2000
Total raised: $3B
Location: United States, New York
Employees: 11-50
Founded date: 2016
Total raised: $17.3M
Location: United States, California, San Francisco
Employees: 501-1000
Founded date: 2005
Total raised: $2.21B
The landscape of business is changing. Women are stepping into the spotlight, breaking barriers, and redefining success. The 2025 CNBC Changemakers list showcases fifty remarkable women who are not just leaders but pioneers. They are shaping industries, influencing culture, and driving meaningful change.
This year’s list is a testament to resilience and innovation. It highlights women from diverse sectors, including biotech, AI, media, and health. Each Changemaker has made a significant impact in the past year, launching products, leading turnarounds, or igniting cultural movements. They are the architects of their own success, building bridges where none existed.
The selection process for the Changemakers was rigorous. Nominations poured in from across the business spectrum. Hundreds of women were considered, each bringing unique stories and achievements. The criteria were clear: measurable contributions to the business world in 2024. This focus ensured that only those who truly made a difference were recognized.
Among the honorees, Naomi Watts stands out. As the founder of Stripes Beauty, she is transforming conversations around menopause. Her work empowers women to embrace this natural phase of life. Similarly, Chelsea Hirschhorn of Frida is revolutionizing baby and fertility products, making them accessible and effective. These women are not just business leaders; they are advocates for change.
The food industry is also represented. Jennifer Garner’s Once Upon a Farm and Denise Woodard’s Partake Foods are remaking diets for healthier living. They understand that food is not just sustenance; it’s a pathway to wellness. Their products resonate with consumers seeking better choices.
In the tech realm, women are leading the charge in AI. Lila Ibrahim of Google DeepMind is ensuring that AI serves humanity. Her focus on ethical implementation sets a standard for the industry. Bianca Anghelina of Aily Labs is enhancing corporate decision-making through innovative tools. These leaders are not just participants in the AI race; they are shaping its future.
The Changemakers list reflects a broader trend: women are pursuing purpose alongside profits. They are building businesses that align with social and environmental good. Toyin Ajayi, CEO of Cityblock Health, exemplifies this approach. Her company addresses healthcare disparities in lower-income communities, offering comprehensive services that go beyond traditional medical care.
This year’s list also highlights the importance of representation. Women in leadership roles are more likely to foster diverse teams. Sheryl Palmer, CEO of Taylor Morrison, is a prime example. Under her leadership, the company’s female workforce reached 44%, a stark contrast to the industry average. She is not just breaking the glass ceiling; she is raising it for others.
However, the journey is not without challenges. Despite progress, women still face significant hurdles. Venture capital funding for female-founded companies has declined. In 2024, only 2% of VC dollars went to women-led startups. This disparity underscores the fragility of progress. The Changemakers are not just succeeding; they are fighting against the odds.
The selection process for the Changemakers was meticulous. It involved both quantitative and qualitative assessments. Nominees were evaluated on their influence, representation, and results. The Advisory Board played a crucial role, providing insights and guidance. This collaborative effort ensured a fair and comprehensive evaluation.
The qualitative assessment focused on three key criteria: contribution, transformational change, and inspiring leadership. Each nominee’s story was scrutinized for its potential to inspire others. This emphasis on narrative highlights the power of storytelling in leadership.
The 2025 Changemakers list is not just a celebration; it’s a call to action. It encourages women to step into leadership roles and make their voices heard. The stories of these women serve as a beacon of hope. They remind us that change is possible, even in the face of adversity.
As we look ahead, the impact of these Changemakers will continue to unfold. Their innovations will shape industries, influence policies, and inspire future generations. The 2025 CNBC Changemakers are not just leaders; they are trailblazers. They are redefining what it means to be successful in business.
In conclusion, the 2025 CNBC Changemakers list is a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of women in business. These leaders are breaking barriers, driving change, and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. Their stories are a testament to the power of perseverance and innovation. As we celebrate their achievements, we also look forward to the future they are creating—a future where women lead with purpose and passion.
This year’s list is a testament to resilience and innovation. It highlights women from diverse sectors, including biotech, AI, media, and health. Each Changemaker has made a significant impact in the past year, launching products, leading turnarounds, or igniting cultural movements. They are the architects of their own success, building bridges where none existed.
The selection process for the Changemakers was rigorous. Nominations poured in from across the business spectrum. Hundreds of women were considered, each bringing unique stories and achievements. The criteria were clear: measurable contributions to the business world in 2024. This focus ensured that only those who truly made a difference were recognized.
Among the honorees, Naomi Watts stands out. As the founder of Stripes Beauty, she is transforming conversations around menopause. Her work empowers women to embrace this natural phase of life. Similarly, Chelsea Hirschhorn of Frida is revolutionizing baby and fertility products, making them accessible and effective. These women are not just business leaders; they are advocates for change.
The food industry is also represented. Jennifer Garner’s Once Upon a Farm and Denise Woodard’s Partake Foods are remaking diets for healthier living. They understand that food is not just sustenance; it’s a pathway to wellness. Their products resonate with consumers seeking better choices.
In the tech realm, women are leading the charge in AI. Lila Ibrahim of Google DeepMind is ensuring that AI serves humanity. Her focus on ethical implementation sets a standard for the industry. Bianca Anghelina of Aily Labs is enhancing corporate decision-making through innovative tools. These leaders are not just participants in the AI race; they are shaping its future.
The Changemakers list reflects a broader trend: women are pursuing purpose alongside profits. They are building businesses that align with social and environmental good. Toyin Ajayi, CEO of Cityblock Health, exemplifies this approach. Her company addresses healthcare disparities in lower-income communities, offering comprehensive services that go beyond traditional medical care.
This year’s list also highlights the importance of representation. Women in leadership roles are more likely to foster diverse teams. Sheryl Palmer, CEO of Taylor Morrison, is a prime example. Under her leadership, the company’s female workforce reached 44%, a stark contrast to the industry average. She is not just breaking the glass ceiling; she is raising it for others.
However, the journey is not without challenges. Despite progress, women still face significant hurdles. Venture capital funding for female-founded companies has declined. In 2024, only 2% of VC dollars went to women-led startups. This disparity underscores the fragility of progress. The Changemakers are not just succeeding; they are fighting against the odds.
The selection process for the Changemakers was meticulous. It involved both quantitative and qualitative assessments. Nominees were evaluated on their influence, representation, and results. The Advisory Board played a crucial role, providing insights and guidance. This collaborative effort ensured a fair and comprehensive evaluation.
The qualitative assessment focused on three key criteria: contribution, transformational change, and inspiring leadership. Each nominee’s story was scrutinized for its potential to inspire others. This emphasis on narrative highlights the power of storytelling in leadership.
The 2025 Changemakers list is not just a celebration; it’s a call to action. It encourages women to step into leadership roles and make their voices heard. The stories of these women serve as a beacon of hope. They remind us that change is possible, even in the face of adversity.
As we look ahead, the impact of these Changemakers will continue to unfold. Their innovations will shape industries, influence policies, and inspire future generations. The 2025 CNBC Changemakers are not just leaders; they are trailblazers. They are redefining what it means to be successful in business.
In conclusion, the 2025 CNBC Changemakers list is a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of women in business. These leaders are breaking barriers, driving change, and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. Their stories are a testament to the power of perseverance and innovation. As we celebrate their achievements, we also look forward to the future they are creating—a future where women lead with purpose and passion.