Empowering Woman Day: Influential Women Lead Change
The list showcases the achievements of women from various backgrounds and industries, highlighting their contributions to society and amplifying their voices. From politics and sports to entertainment and activism, these women are redefining what it means to be a leader and a change-maker, and their influence will be felt for years to come.
Gisèle Pelicot, a 72-year-old French grandmother, has been named The Independent's most influential woman of 2025, topping the list of 50 women who have made a significant impact on society over the past year, as the world marks International Women's Day with a call to "Accelerate Action" for gender equality.
The list features women from various fields, including politics, sports, entertainment, and activism, who have shown courage and determination in the face of adversity. Pelicot's influence stems from her courageous decision to waive her anonymity in a high-profile rape trial, where her ex-husband and 50 other men were convicted of sexually abusing her over a decade. Other notable women on the list include UK's first woman Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, 800m Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson, and Princess of Wales.
The list aims to champion the theme of "Accelerate Action" in the fight for gender equality, which is crucial at a time when women's rights are under threat globally. Women in Afghanistan are facing "gender apartheid," while in the US, reproductive rights are being attacked. The Independent is calling for urgent and transformative change to make a tangible difference in the lives of women. The women on the list are united by their determination to push boundaries and break down barriers to shape the world around them.
Other notable women on the list include Jess Phillips, a domestic abuse charity worker and politician, and Kemi Badenoch, the first Black leader of a major UK political party. They share their views on gender equality, with Phillips emphasizing the need for women to be free to be themselves, and Badenoch highlighting the importance of equality of opportunity. The list also features London-born journalist Chioma Nnadi, who became the first Black woman to edit British Vogue in 2023, and Alex Consani, the world's first transgender woman to be named Model of the Year.
As the world celebrates International Women's Day, The Independent's 2025 Influence List serves as a reminder of the power and resilience of women who are leading change and pushing boundaries. Their stories and achievements inspire and motivate others to strive for a more equal and just society, where women can thrive and reach their full potential.