<\/span><\/h2>\nThe rise of women in leadership roles is one of the most inspiring and transformative shifts in today\u2019s business world. More women than ever are breaking through the glass ceiling and stepping into positions of power across industries, from CEOs and entrepreneurs to political leaders and philanthropists. This growth reflects not only their professional capabilities but also their ability to adapt, innovate and persevere in the face of adversity.<\/p>\n
What\u2019s driving this growth? For many, entrepreneurship is not just about creating a successful business\u2014it\u2019s about creating opportunity. Women are increasingly launching ventures in industries ranging from tech to health care, education to fashion, and everything in between. They are tackling complex challenges, solving real-world problems and, in the process, creating jobs and driving innovation.<\/p>\n\n<\/picture>\nBut their success is not just about business\u2014it\u2019s also about purpose. Female entrepreneurs are infusing their companies with a sense of mission, whether it\u2019s advancing sustainability, advocating for social justice or prioritizing wellness and inclusivity. They\u2019re not just building businesses; they\u2019re building a better world for future generations.<\/p>\n
According to recent studies, the number of female-owned businesses has skyrocketed, and women have launched startups faster than their male counterparts. Women entrepreneurs had a 41% year-over-year growth rate from 2023 to 2024, and women now hold 10.4% of CEO positions in Fortune 500 companies, according to Women Business Collaborative\u2014a steady increase that highlights their growing influence across industries.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Making significant strides<\/span><\/h2>\nThe following statistics demonstrate the rising tide of female entrepreneurs and business leaders who are not only thriving but also are creating pathways for future generations of female entrepreneurs and CEOs. We should be extremely proud of our progress, and that\u2019s why we continue to celebrate outstanding individuals from around the world.<\/p>\n
<\/span>1. Increasing number of women entrepreneurs<\/span><\/h3>\nAccording to the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor<\/em> 2020\/2021 report, women account for about 33% of high growth entrepreneurs globally, a significant rise in recent years. This trend is especially visible in the tech, health and consumer goods industries, where women are leading the way in developing new solutions and creating thriving businesses.<\/p>\n<\/span>2. Women in startups<\/span><\/h3>\nA report by PitchBook<\/em> revealed that female-cofounded companies in the U.S. raised a record $64.4 billion in venture capital funding in 2021. While women are still underrepresented compared to their male counterparts, this growth is significant in increasing the visibility and influence of women-led companies in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.<\/p>\n<\/span>3. Growth in women-owned businesses<\/span><\/h3>\nData from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that the number of women-owned businesses grew by 21% from 2014 to 2019, outpacing the growth of all U.S. businesses, which grew by just 9%. This growth trend is expected to continue, driven by women entrepreneurs across all sectors.<\/p>\n
<\/span>4. Women entrepreneurs and innovation<\/span><\/h3>\nAccording to the American Express 2019 State of Women-Owned Businesses Report<\/em>, female-owned businesses now account for about 42% of all U.S. businesses. And according to the previously mentioned Global Entrepreneurship Monitor<\/em> report, 1 in 3 female entrepreneurs in the U.S. is involved in high-growth sectors like technology, which shows that women are making significant strides in reshaping industries that are traditionally dominated by men.<\/p>\n<\/span>5. Women in the tech industry<\/span><\/h3>\nWomen are making notable inroads in tech entrepreneurship. PitchBook<\/em>\u2019s earlier report also found that female tech company founders saw over $30 billion in investments in 2021, an increase of 82.9% from 2020. This highlights the growing recognition of the value women bring to innovation-driven sectors.<\/p>\n<\/span>6. Entrepreneurial success and gender parity<\/span><\/h3>\nAccording to Bizee, women are over 20% more likely than men to succeed in building profitable businesses in the early stages, a statistic that underscores the resilience and growth mindset women bring to entrepreneurship.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Celebrating the SUCCESS women of influence<\/span><\/h2>\nThis year\u2019s Women of Influence honorees exemplify the power of growth-minded leadership. They are visionary entrepreneurs, committed advocates, resilient business women and compassionate caregivers\u2014women who have demonstrated that they can do it all. Their stories are a testament to the strength, versatility and tenacity of women around the globe, and their collective impact is a powerful reminder of the transformative force women are in shaping the future of business and society.<\/p>\n
In this issue, we are proud to announce our top 50 nominees, as well as introduce our WOI winner, Carey Lohrenz, who demonstrates exactly what our SUCCESS mission is all about: leading with authenticity and inspiring others to be resilient, no matter who you are or what you do. As you will learn, Lohrenz is a world-class leader, author, speaker and changemaker who is a pioneer in the world of aviation.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Women as leaders, caregivers and visionaries<\/span><\/h2>\nOne of the most remarkable things about the women we honor through the Women of Influence campaign is their ability to balance the many roles they play\u2014leaders in business, caregivers in the home, advocates in their communities and role models for future generations. Women today are wearing multiple hats, and they do so with persistence and unwavering dedication.<\/p>\n
Many of the women are mothers, caregivers and partners\u2014individuals who, despite the demands of their professional lives, make family and community a priority. They understand that true success isn\u2019t just about career accomplishments; it\u2019s also about fostering strong relationships, creating a positive impact and being present for the people who matter most. These women demonstrate that it is not only possible to be a leader in business but also to build deep connections and leave a legacy of love and support for those around them.<\/p>\n
In addition to their roles at home, these women are actively shaping the future of industries, nonprofits and advocacy work. They understand that leadership isn\u2019t just about making decisions\u2014it\u2019s about lifting others up, sharing knowledge and creating pathways for those who come after them. Whether it\u2019s mentoring other women in business, leading philanthropic efforts or speaking out on issues that matter, these women are making their mark across multiple spheres of influence. Their ability to balance both personal and professional commitments is a testament to their strength, discipline and passion for growth.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Growth-minded trailblazers<\/span><\/h2>\nOne of the most defining characteristics of these women is their growth mindset, hence the theme of this issue. These women are not content with simply maintaining the status quo\u2014they are relentlessly pushing forward, continually evolving and seeking new opportunities to grow. Their entrepreneurial ventures and leadership roles are rooted in a deep belief that there is always more to learn, more to achieve and more ways to make a positive impact.<\/p>\n
A growth mindset isn\u2019t just about having ambition; it\u2019s also about resilience in the face of challenges. These women have faced adversity, whether in their personal lives or professional journeys, and have overcome it with determination and grace. They view obstacles not as roadblocks but as opportunities to learn, grow and become even stronger leaders.<\/p>\n
At SUCCESS, we recognize that growth is not just about individual success\u2014it\u2019s about collective progress. The women we honor through the Women of Influence campaign are building networks of support and collaboration that empower others to succeed. They understand that true leadership is about creating space for others to thrive, and in doing so, they\u2019re fostering a culture of innovation and inclusion that benefits everyone.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Global reach<\/span><\/h2>\nAs we inspire on the international scene, I will also go one step further. The Women of Influence campaign isn\u2019t just about recognizing the accomplishments of a select few\u2014it\u2019s about celebrating a global movement of women who are leading change in entrepreneurship, philanthropy, advocacy, and personal and professional development. At SUCCESS\u00ae<\/em> magazine, our reach extends worldwide, and we are proud to honor women from diverse backgrounds and industries who are making a lasting impact on the global stage.<\/p>\nThese women are using their platforms to advocate for important causes, drive meaningful change and provide solutions to some of the world\u2019s most pressing issues. From launching international businesses to leading grassroots campaigns, the women featured are demonstrating that leadership knows no borders. Their influence is felt across continents, and their impact is shaping the future of industries, communities and societies around the world.<\/p>\n
Ultimately, we understand that true success is not a solitary achievement\u2014it\u2019s a collective effort. That\u2019s why we are committed to recognizing women who are not only excelling in their fields but also lifting others as they rise. These Women of Influence are building legacies that will resonate for generations to come, and we are honored to share their stories with the world.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Architects of change<\/span><\/h2>\nAs we reflect on the incredible achievements of the women we feature on the following pages, we are reminded of their incredible contributions. These women are not just leaders in their industries\u2014they are also changemakers, paving the way for future generations of women to follow in their footsteps.<\/p>\n
Their impact goes beyond the numbers and accolades; it\u2019s about the lives they\u2019ve touched, the barriers they\u2019ve broken and the communities they\u2019ve built. They have shown us that women can do anything. Whether it\u2019s launching a business, leading a nonprofit, advocating for social change or simply being a role model to others, these women have proven that with passion, dedication and a growth mindset, there is no limit to what can be achieved.<\/p>\n
At SUCCESS\u00ae<\/em> magazine, we are proud to honor these women and share their stories with the world. They are the epitome of what it means to be a Woman of Influence\u2014and their journey is just beginning. As we celebrate their achievements, we look forward to seeing how they will continue to inspire, lead and create a brighter future for all.<\/p>\nThese women are paving the way for the next generation of leaders, and we can\u2019t wait to see where their paths will lead. And, by recognizing them, we reaffirm the truth that women can\u2014and do\u2014excel in every aspect of life. They are not just shaping the future of business. They are transforming the world itself.<\/p>\n
Congratulations to everyone!<\/p>\n
<\/span>Meet our winner<\/span><\/h2>\n<\/span>Carey Lohrenz<\/span><\/h3>\nCEO, Hall of Fame Keynote Speaker, Author, Former Navy Fighter Pilot<\/em><\/p>\nThe first female F-14 Tomcat fighter pilot in the U.S. Navy, Lohrenz is a leadership expert and author of two Wall Street Journal<\/em> bestselling books, Fearless Leadership<\/em> and Span of Control<\/em>. Her military background in high-stakes combat environments has shaped her into a sought-after authority on leadership, strategy and resilience. By leveraging her combat-tested insights, she has developed a modern, data-driven leadership style that equips business leaders to excel under pressure and adapt in today\u2019s competitive environment.<\/p>\nDriven by a desire to share her experiences, Lohrenz has delivered impactful keynotes and programs to thousands of Fortune 500 and Forbes Global 2000 companies, guiding leaders and teams on how to navigate complexity, drive change and deliver results when it matters most. Her approach focuses on practical, research-based strategies that yield both immediate and sustainable benefits, thus creating cultures of continuous improvement and resilience. Lohrenz has been recognized as a National Speakers Association Hall of Fame speaker and has also been featured on CNN, MSNBC and NPR, sharing her insights with global audiences.<\/p>\n
In addition to her corporate work, she is a dedicated CEO, board member and mother who balances her professional achievements with personal commitments. Lohrenz\u2019s experiences as a pioneer in a male-dominated field not only inspire leaders to embrace fearless leadership but also contribute to broader conversations about diversity, inclusion and breaking gender barriers in challenging fields. A portion of the proceeds from her books supports veterans\u2019 charities, underscoring her commitment to honoring those who serve.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Meet our finalists<\/span><\/h2>\nWhether you nominated a colleague, a friend or even yourself, you\u2019ve sparked positive change and empowerment. Join us as we honor the remarkable accomplishments, actions and achievements of our Top 50 finalists.<\/p>\n
Congratulations to all of our finalists, and thank you to our nominees!<\/p>\n<\/span>Naomi Ackerman<\/span><\/h3>\nFounder, Executive Director of the Advot Project<\/em><\/p>\nAckerman leads the Advot (\u201cripples\u201d in Hebrew) Project, a California-based nonprofit that harnesses the power of artistic exploration to help young people become bold, courageous self-advocates. She primarily works with incarcerated and system-impacted youth, empowering participants to find their voice and transform their lives.\u00a0<\/p>\n
She is also the creator of the groundbreaking ripple method, a transformative approach that has taught thousands of young people critical communication and relationship-building skills. This method inspires participants to overcome the barriers in their lives, enabling them to write the next chapter of their story with confidence and hope. An experienced actress, consultant and facilitator, Ackerman is the writer, director, producer and performer of the critically acclaimed one-woman show, Flowers Aren\u2019t Enough<\/em>.\u00a0<\/p>\nFor the past three decades, Ackerman has dedicated herself to promoting peace, fostering change and encouraging self-empowerment through the interactive workshops she creates and leads. Her work has impacted diverse communities and environments, bringing a message of healing and transformation wherever she goes.<\/p>\n<\/span>Rajinder Atwal, M.D.<\/span><\/h3>\nMedical Director, Founder, CEO, Family Physician, C.C.F.P., Women STEM Mentorship<\/em><\/p>\nAn award-winning family physician, medical director and CEO, Atwal leads a busy medical facility while serving on the board of directors of five nonprofits. Through Women STEM Mentorship, she created a platform that advances women in STEM through advising, networking and educational workshops. As a medical clinic founder and director, she precepts medical, nurse practitioner and lab technician students.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Atwal also cofounded Beyond Boundaries Soccer, which enables individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities to enjoy the sport, and Green Teen Generation, where she mentors youth to become environmental leaders. Her accolades include the Women in Business Female Lifetime Achievement Award, 2023 Women of the Year for Healthcare, 2023 The Waterfront for Science and Technology Award and recognition as one of the 2023 Top 100 Asian Women Power Leaders. She was also named one of the 10 Most Inspiring Women Leaders to Follow in 2024 and a Global Women Power Leader in 2024.<\/p>\n<\/span>Marva Bailer<\/span><\/h3>\nFounder, CEO, Board Member of Qualaix<\/em><\/p>\nBailer epitomizes fearlessness and innovation as a trailblazing tech leader and breast cancer survivor. Recognized as a 2023 game changer by Scarlett Abott, she disrupts norms and drives change across industries. With two decades of experience leading billion-dollar teams at IBM, Amazon, Twilio and Splunk, her impact is vast and varied.\u00a0<\/p>\n
As an experienced board member and classically trained senior executive, she has spent the last decade propelling unicorn tech companies, leading P&Ls over $1 billion and managing teams of over 400. She excels in innovative go-to-market strategies and has extensive expertise in M&A, SaaS and ARR transitions. Bailer is also the author of the NIEA 2023 top career book, Be Unexpected<\/em>, where she emphasizes impactful communication and the unique concept of a personal \u201cwalk-up song.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\nAs a purpose-driven leader, she fosters connections, inspires others to innovate and builds exceptional cultures. Her deep experience in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence and her role as a sought-after speaker, adviser and award-winning author underscores her commitment to driving success.<\/p>\n<\/span>Jess Bailey<\/span><\/h3>\n