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Environmental Stewardship
Economic Prosperity
Social Inclusion
Just Governance
CORE SPONSOR
The SustainabilityX® Magazine’s Global 50 Women In Sustainability Awards™ 2025 are proudly presented in partnership with Belnor Engineering Inc., a leading global construction solutions firm. Belnor specializes in sustainable architectural products and services for the green building industry, with expertise in indoor air quality (IAQ), HVAC, critical airflow management, healthcare design, and smart city and renewable energy technologies. Together, we celebrate innovation, leadership, and the future of sustainable design. [Read the full press release]
DIGITAL GIFT SPONSORS
The SustainabilityX® Magazine’s 2025 Global 50 Women In Sustainability Awards™ are proudly supported by a diverse community of Digital & Gift Sponsors across multiple sectors. Their contributions enrich the program, helping us celebrate and honor the extraordinary achievements of women driving sustainability worldwide. By supporting this initiative, our Gift Sponsors amplify the impact of trailblazing women leaders and demonstrate a shared commitment to advancing sustainability, equity, and global leadership. Together, we are uplifting the voices shaping a more just, inclusive, and sustainable future. [Read the full press release]
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PROMOTIONAL PARTNERS
The SustainabilityX® Magazine’s Global 50 Women In Sustainability Awards™ 2025 are proudly supported by our Promotional Partners. Thanks to them, this celebration is further strengthened by their invaluable contributions whose collaboration helps spotlight the remarkable achievements of women in sustainability. Together, they amplify recognition of these leaders while reflecting a shared commitment to advancing excellence, equity, and sustainability on a global scale. [Read the full press release]
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The SustainabilityX® Magazine Announces 4th Annual Global 50 Women In Sustainability Awards™ Under the Theme “Leading with Courage”
Toronto, Ontario, Canada, October 2, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ --The SustainabilityX® Magazine is proud to announce the digital release of its 4th Annual Global 50 Women In Sustainability Awards™ 2025, under the powerful theme “Leading with Courage.” This year’s awards celebrate the women who are advancing sustainability with fearless conviction, breaking barriers, dismantling inequity, and reshaping leadership in a world marked by turbulence and resistance—alongside the forthcoming debut book “Bold Women, Sustainable Futures: Leadership Lessons in an Age of Resistance” by The SustainabilityX® Magazine’s founder Supriya Verma, launching March 2026 for Women’s Month.
Celebrating Courageous Leadership in Sustainability & Why Leading with Courage Matters Now
The 2025 edition of the The SustainabilityX® Magazine’s Global 50 Women In Sustainability Awards™ recognizes 50 extraordinary women whose work is shifting paradigms, driving systemic transformation, and closing the gender gap in sustainability leadership. These awardees come from diverse sectors—policy, business, science, activism, and the arts—yet they share a common spirit: the courage to lead in times of uncertainty and resistance.
From spearheading renewable energy solutions and climate finance strategies to championing frontline communities and reshaping governance, this year’s honourees exemplify what it means to lead with courage in the face of mounting climate, social, and economic crises.
This year’s theme, “Leading with Courage,” honours the resilience, strength, and vision of women who continue to drive sustainability forward—even amid uncertainty and resistance.
In 2025, the stakes for sustainability have never been higher. Geopolitical conflicts, economic instability, and increasing hostility toward climate action threaten to roll back hard-won progress. Yet, women are stepping up—crafting bold policies, building resilient economies, and ensuring sustainability remains at the heart of decision-making.
Women bring collaborative, solution-driven leadership that is critical in these uncertain times. Their contributions extend beyond boardrooms and government offices to grassroots movements, corporate strategies, technological innovations, and global policymaking. This year, we celebrate women who are not just weathering the storm but reshaping the world for the better.
“Courage is not just about standing firm—it’s about standing forward,” says Supriya Verma, founder of The SustainabilityX® Magazine. “Women in sustainability today are not merely holding the line; they are pushing it forward, reshaping industries, economies, and societies. The future of sustainability depends on those who lead not in comfort, but in crisis—with unwavering conviction, innovation, and purpose.”
Key Highlights of the 2025 Awards
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40 Contemporary Leaders Honoured: The awards recognize 40 women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in sustainability, driving transformative change in their respective fields. These leaders are celebrated for their courageous approaches to advancing climate action, social justice, and sustainable innovation despite economic, political, or social barriers. Their work not only addresses urgent environmental and equity challenges but also sets a powerful example for future generations of leaders.
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10 Historic Icons Celebrated: The Historic Icons section pays tribute to 10 extraordinary women—scientists, activists, artists, Indigenous leaders, cultural visionaries, and political trailblazers—whose legacies continue to shape the present and inspire the future. Long before sustainability became a global mandate, they broke barriers, challenged injustice, and redefined what leadership could mean in their time. From pioneering environmental science and defending human rights to leading nations and sparking global movements, their enduring impact carved pathways for today’s Global 50 Women In Sustainability Awards™ 2025 and remains a beacon of courage, resilience, and vision for a more just and sustainable world.
We are honoured to spotlight these 50 trailblazers who are not only shaping a greener and more inclusive future but are also leading with courage in the face of resistance—driving solutions that advance climate action, equity, and justice even in turbulent times. Their achievements remind us that courageous leadership is the foundation of sustainability, and they inspire us all to act boldly, amplify their efforts, and keep the dialogue alive.
Thank you to our sponsors for making these awards possible:
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Core Sponsor: Belnor Engineering Inc.
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Digital & Gift Sponsors: NYU Stern Center for Sustainable Business, Competent Boards, Blinkist, Skillshare, Women Get On Board, Packed With Purpose, Teachable, and GetSmarter
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Promotional Partners: Toronto Climate Week, Tough Old Broads, Cision, IWBI Social Sustainability Summit, and the Sustainable Journalism Partnership
New Debut Book “Bold Women, Sustainable Futures” by SustainabilityX® Founder to Launch March 2026 for Women’s Month
Aligned with this year’s theme, The SustainabilityX® Magazine is proud to highlight the forthcoming debut book from its founder, Supriya Verma: “Bold Women, Sustainable Futures: Leadership Lessons in an Age of Resistance” (launching March 2026 for Women’s Month) featuring past and present awardees of The SustainabilityX® Magazine’s Global 50 Women In Sustainability Awards™ program.
With women around the world bearing the brunt of the climate crisis coupled with DEI/ESG policy rollbacks and the revival of cultural misogyny, "Bold Women, Sustainable Futures" is a moving and timely book about the progress, potential, and power of women in sustainability leadership to bring about impactful and inclusive systemic change. After laying out how sustainability and sustainable development is best supported by leadership rooted in collective progress, justice, and inclusion, the book profiles nine bold women leading across climate science, governance, business, media, advocacy, and the arts—while also weaving in Verma’s own journey as a woman of colour navigating leadership, voice, and healing.
The second half of the book takes a hard look at the current backlash against DEI and ESG initiatives, providing meaningful context for the crisis and asking: In this age of resistance, what do we do now? How do we move forward in a world moving backwards? What do young women starting their leadership journeys do? What do existing senior female leaders caught up in the backlash do?
In response, Verma offers strategies and solutions, including concrete steps and action plans for meeting this moment head-on.
The book also includes a powerful fulcrum chapter, “The Turning Point—The Tide Is Going Out,” featuring even more reflections from extraordinary women across sustainability, business, and justice movements. Together, their voices offer wisdom and guidance on leading with courage when the systems we thought were shifting are turning back.
Amidst a growing backlash against climate action, gender equity, anti-racism, human rights, ESG, and DEI, "Bold Women, Sustainable Futures: Leadership Lessons in an Age of Resistance” has become:
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A mirror, held up to a world that wants to forget how far we still have to go.
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A manual, for how to lead not only when praised, but when punished.
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A call to action, grounded in the lived realities of those who refuse to be erased.
Beautifully written and grounded in both research and lived experience, “Bold Women, Sustainable Futures” serves as a guide for:
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Existing women in leadership navigating the backlash head-on,
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Aspiring women leaders and emerging voices looking to step up, and
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Students searching for role models as they enter the field.
“The awards program and the book are two parts of the same mission — to celebrate women whose leadership is reshaping not just sustainability, but the very meaning of courage, all while navigating systems that were never designed for women to thrive, especially now in an age of resistance,” said Verma.
Readers can join the book’s launch list to receive updates, sneak peeks, and exclusive excerpts.
Digital Release and Engagement Opportunities
The SustainabilityX® Magazine’s Global 50 Women In Sustainability Awards™ 2025 are unveiled digitally on SustainabilityX.Co. This digital-first release ensures that the Awards transcend time zones and borders, with content reaching readers around the world in an asynchronous fashion.
Highlights include:
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Main Awards Page – a comprehensive showcase of this year’s 50 honourees and their courageous contributions, including individual highlights exploring each leader’s journey, impact, and vision.
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Thought Leadership Articles – contributions by awardees offering insights into the pressing sustainability issues of our time.
Content Sponsorship Opportunities
Organizations aligned with sustainability and women’s leadership are invited to partner with The SustainabilityX® Magazine through content and awards sponsorships. Packages offer global visibility, alignment with a powerful mission, and association with a community of distinguished global leaders. For more details, please email advertising@spsxgroup.com.
About The SustainabilityX® Magazine
The SustainabilityX® Magazine is an award-winning, digital, female-founded, and female-led non-profit initiative bringing the environment and economy together for a sustainable future through dialogue, and now transforming the environment and economy for a sustainable future through the power of women's leadership. Founded on May 8, 2016, and inspired by the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals by Canada's Top 30 Under 30 in Sustainability Leadership awardee, Supriya Verma, the digital media initiative focuses on approaching the world's most pressing challenges with a holistic, integrated, systems-based perspective as opposed to the traditional and ineffective siloed approach with a single lens on interdisciplinary topics like climate and energy. This initiative ultimately seeks to explore how to effectively bring the environment and economy together through intellectual, insightful dialogue and thought-provoking discussion amongst individuals across sectors taking an interdisciplinary and integrated approach to untangling the intricate web of sustainability while championing women's leadership in sustainability.
The SustainabilityX® Magazine is built upon the four foundational pillars of sustainability: Environmental Stewardship, which emphasizes the importance of improving environmental health; Economic Prosperity, which promotes sustainable economic growth that transcends traditional capitalist models; Social Inclusion, which focuses on equity, diversity, and inclusion (DEI) for BIPOC, LGBTQ, and other marginalized or vulnerable communities; and Just Governance, which highlights responsible leadership, the equal application of the rule of law, and the creation of fair systems for all.
As we continue our mission to align with the Women's Empowerment Principles (WEPs), we continue to explore the diverse and interconnected factors that influence sustainability. By recognizing how these elements interact across local, national, and international levels, we aim to accelerate progress toward sustainability goals. In essence, this aligns with The SustainabilityX® Magazine's vision of integrating environmental and economic progress for a more just, inclusive, and sustainable future through thoughtful dialogue.
Whether your background is in science, engineering, business, law, politics, media, entertainment, or beyond, your voice plays a crucial role in shaping this future.
Show your support for independent, high-impact publications by becoming a subscribing member and help power international conversations that matter.
The SustainabilityX® Magazine is a proud member of the Sustainable Journalism Partnership, serves as a cause-based media partner for various events such as WIRED Impact, and officially delivers remarks at international conferences such as UNESCO's annual World Press Freedom Day Conference.
SustainabilityX® is a brand of the non-profit social business SPSX Group.
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Awardees
HISTORIC ICONS
Bold Women, Sustainable Futures: Leadership Lessons in an Age of Resistance
By Supriya Verma, Award-winning sustainability leader, speaker, author, and founder, The SustainabilityX® Magazine
"Bold Women, Sustainable Futures: Leadership Lessons in an Age of Resistance" weaves Supriya Verma’s personal journey as a woman of colour with the stories of global women leaders, offering a powerful guide to leading with courage, justice, and inclusion in turbulent times. Through bold profiles, lived experiences, and actionable strategies, it provides a roadmap for navigating the growing backlash against climate action, equity, and sustainability. More than a collection of stories, it is a call to rebuild systems that are more just, inclusive, and resilient — showing how women are reshaping leadership, policy, industries, and business to meet this critical moment. Written for aspiring young women entering the workforce, students seeking role models, and existing women leaders confronting resistance, this book offers solidarity, strategies, and hope for those determined to lead the future anyway.
👉 Book launching March 2026 for Women’s Month: Join the Launch List to receive updates, sneak peeks, and exclusive excerpts.
"It means a lot to be recognized during a year focused on 'Leading with Courage'. I believe it is important to be the change you want to see in the world, and often this means having the courage to chart your own course and make change happen. I have found being true to my values helps me effect change even when it is challenging."
- Carol Aziz, President, Achieve Sustainability Inc., Canada
Carol Aziz PEng, SCR is the Founder and President of Achieve Sustainability Inc., a boutique corporate sustainability consultancy serving small and medium-sized companies. She has more than 25 years of experience in sustainability and environmental consulting and currently supports her clients with greenhouse gas inventories, setting science-based targets, developing and implementing decarbonization plans, and greenwashing audits. In addition, Carol is also the Founder and Director of Climate Impact Fund, a private foundation that supports local climate literacy and sustainability initiatives. To give back to the community, a portion of Achieve Sustainability's net revenue supports Climate Impact Fund. Carol Aziz received her doctorate in Environmental Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin, and undergraduate and Master degrees in Chemical Engineering from the University of Toronto.
Vivian Tu, Founder, Your Rich BFF, United States
Vivian Tu is a former Wall Street trader turned financial educator, best known as “Your Rich BFF.” After starting her career at J.P. Morgan, she transitioned into media and technology before launching a platform dedicated to democratizing financial knowledge. Through her accessible and engaging content, Vivian translates complex financial concepts into practical lessons on saving, investing, and building wealth. Her mission is to close the financial literacy gap, particularly for women, minorities, and younger generations who are often excluded from traditional finance conversations. With millions of followers across social platforms, Vivian has built a community that values transparency, empowerment, and financial independence. She is also the author of Rich AF: The Winning Money Mindset That Will Change Your Life, combining personal insights with actionable strategies. Vivian continues to champion inclusive, relatable finance education for all.
"It's with a lot of humility that I receive this award. It touches my heart, but beyond my happiness, this award represents a personal and professional commitment to go beyond and stand up for what I believe. Leading with courage means reshaping our society in a way that is good for business, for nature, and our communities."
- Maya Colombani, Chief Sustainability, Human Rights and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, L'Oréal Canada, Canada
Maya Colombani has been Head of Sustainable Development and Human Rights at L'Oréal Canada since 2022, following a 20-year career at L'Oréal. She held roles in International Marketing for Kérastase and L'Oréal Professionnel, with missions in India and Europe. In 2016, she became Director of Sustainable Development at L'Oréal Brazil, transforming its approach to sustainability and human rights. Her award-winning initiatives (Guia Exame 2017–2019, WEP Gold Award 2021) positioned L'Oréal Brazil as a leader in climate change, biodiversity, and women’s empowerment, and in 2022 GLOBO recognized its inclusive programs with indigenous communities (Kayapos and Guaranies). At L'Oréal Canada, Maya advances “L'Oréal For the Future,” leading eco-design, decarbonization, circular economy, and reconciliation programs. Honoured with Canada’s Clean 50, Top 25 ESG, French Chamber ESG, and Mercuriades awards (2024–2025), Maya was appointed Chief Sustainability, Human Rights and DEI Officer effective September 1.
"Receiving this award is an honour, recognizing my courage, resilience, and leadership in advancing sustainability in IT. It confirms I am on the right path to drive innovation, inspire others, and build capacity to thrive. Celebrating courageous efforts sustains momentum toward a sustainable future and inspires me to keep going."
- Katia Chaban, VP, Global IT Head of IT Sustainability CoE, NTT DATA, Inc., United States
Dr. Katia Chaban is a global leader with 30 years of IT experience across Fortune 500 companies and entrepreneurial ventures, specializing in business model innovation, technology delivery, operational optimization, M&A, and sustainability. She has managed organizations in 40+ countries, overseeing multimillion-dollar budgets and achieving tens of millions in cost savings. In 2022, she earned a Doctorate in Business Administration focused on sustainable innovation and the circular economy, with research published in 2023. Certified by Cambridge, Cornell, GRI, and LEED, she founded ReThinkit Strategies in 2023 to integrate sustainability with technology. She presented at the ESG World Summit, GRIT Awards, 2025 World Economic Forum, and London Climate Week. Recognized as a Woman in Technology (2019), Woman of Distinction (2024), and Global 50 nominee (2025), Dr. Chaban now leads the Global IT Sustainability Center of Expertise at NTT Data and teaches at the University of Maryland.
"Being recognized by the industry for innovation and courage inspires me to continue my efforts in sustainability. My simple advice to other women is to support each other, so our voices can be strong and clear."
- Dr. Sumi Siddiqua, Professor, Faculty of Applied Science, School of Engineering ( (Okanagan Campus),The University of British Columbia, Canada
Prof. Siddiqua is a leader in carbon capture, sequestration, and utilization research, with a focus on infrastructure and environmental applications. Her research highlights the benefits for the community, including support for small and mid-sized businesses and environmental conservation. With over 150 publications in engineering journals, conferences, and industry reports, Dr. Siddiqua's work has had a profound impact on engineering in Canada and worldwide. She is a strong advocate for gender equity in the field of engineering. She has championed initiatives to support women and underrepresented groups in the field of engineering. She serves as a role model for how a leader can use their position to create meaningful, lasting changes within the profession.
"Receiving this award affirms that courage doesn’t always roar—it rewrites rules. I founded Asymmetric by Design to transform forgotten jewelry into climate and human rights solutions, proving circularity, beauty, and impact can coexist. With purchasing power and activism, women can shape a greener, equitable world. Start before you’re ready—your boldest actions matter now."
- Tonya Dickenson, Founder & CEO, Asymmetric by Design, Canada
Tonya Dickenson, EMBA, is Founder & CEO of Asymmetric by Design, an award-winning circular jewelry brand transforming forgotten adornments into modern statement pieces with purpose and activism. Each design uses antique, vintage, and recycled materials, backed by her patent-pending carbon and water impact models—the first of their kind in semi-precious jewelry. With degrees in Pure Mathematics and Economics and an Executive MBA from Queen’s University, Tonya combines analytical rigor, bold design, and ESG leadership, building on 25 years of executive experience in the global pharmaceutical industry. A certified artist with the Canada Council for the Arts and member of the Cartier Redbox initiative, she is also a 1% for the Planet member supporting biodiversity through Jane Goodall Foundation donations. Named a Québec Top 25 Emerging Entrepreneur of 2025 and two-time MMODE Fashion and Innovation Finalist, Tonya proves sustainability can be refined and scalable.
"Receiving this award in a year themed 'Leading with Courage' affirms that quiet presence, deep listening, and walking alongside others is its own brave leadership. True courage is showing up again and again, trusting answers live within those we support. To women: lead with heart, root in generosity, and stand in humility."
- Julie Seath, Founder & Executive Director, Love a Village, Canada
Julie Seath is the Founder and Executive Director of Love a Village, a Canadian grassroots charity partnering with villagers in remote rural Northern Malawi to break the cycle of extreme poverty. Since 2011, Julie has spent part of each year walking alongside communities, listening, and supporting solutions from within. Her work, centred on dignity, sustainability, and respect, addresses clean water, sanitation, health, food security, women’s empowerment, youth, and the environment through collaboration with local leaders and a Malawian partner. She calls herself “the voice of the villager,” carrying stories and hopes to places otherwise unheard. Leading with fierce love and presence, she believes lasting change comes through relationships and shared purpose. Guided by the “Making it L.A.S.T.” framework, Love a Village has supported tens of thousands in building sustainable systems. Born into opportunity, Julie feels a deep responsibility to stand beside those who weren’t.
"As a scholar who was advised, at the start of my career, not to 'waste my time' studying gender issues in the business domain, it means the world to me to receive this award in recognition of my research on this very topic. My advice to women striving to lead with courage in these disconcerting times is thus very simple. Trust your own voice as to what is—and what is not—an endeavour worth pursuing."
- Dr. Jennifer Jennings, Professor and Tier I Canada Research Chair in Entrepreneurship, Gender and Family Business, University of Alberta, Canada
Dr. Jennifer E. Jennings is a Professor at the Alberta School of Business, University of Alberta, and Tier I Canada Research Chair in Entrepreneurship, Gender and Family Business. For over 25 years, she has advanced understanding of women’s distinct economic experiences, particularly as founders. She has published 30+ academic and 13 outreach articles, many award-winning. Her work on family embeddedness of entrepreneurship earned the Academy of Management ENT Division Foundational Paper Award (2021), and her research on gender-based labour discrimination and start-up perceptions was named to the RRBM Honor Roll (2022). She has served on the AOM ENT Division Executive Committee, as Associate Editor for the Journal of Business Venturing, and on several editorial boards. Current projects examine gender and entrepreneurship in non-Western contexts, women’s perimenopause work experiences, and workplace mistreatment stigma. Jennifer earned her PhD from UBC in 2000.
"Receiving this award in a year focused on 'Leading with Courage' is a powerful reminder that impact comes from leading with purpose, even when it’s hard, especially when it’s hard. Courage is quiet strength, rooted in purpose, guided by conviction. To women leaders: stay rooted in your values, use your voice to lift others, and lead with both strength and empathy."
- Zabeen Hirji, Founder, Purposeful Third Act, Canada
Zabeen Hirji is a strategic advisor to private and public sector leaders, and a respected speaker, writer, and media commentator. A thought leader on the future of work, leadership, AI, skills, DEI, and Purposeful Third Acts, she focuses on unlocking human potential and building inclusive prosperity. Her distinguished career at RBC culminated in a decade as Chief Human Resources Officer, overseeing 80,000 employees across 40 countries as part of the Group Executive Committee, with responsibility for brand, communications, and corporate citizenship. Now in her Purposeful Third Act, she is Executive Advisor, Future of Work at Deloitte and CEO Advisor at Knockri. She invests half her time in pro bono efforts, advising the Clerk of the Privy Council, Toronto’s Mayor, and universities. She serves on several boards and has received numerous honours, including the Governor General’s Meritorious Service Medal.
"Receiving this award at this stage of my career is more than an honour. It’s a profound reminder of why I do what I do. The older I get, the stronger my passion burns for protecting this planet for my kids, my grandkids, and for everyone’s future. Now more than ever, it’s time we speak up, stand tall, and shake things up together as women, as leaders, and as guardians of this Earth."
- Jaclyn Whittal, Meteorologist, Stormchaser & Climate Journalist, Canada
Jaclyn Whittal is a meteorologist, storm chaser, and adventurer renowned for forecasting and reporting on some of the most extreme weather events around the globe. With a career that has taken her into the heart of nature’s most powerful forces, Jaclyn has stood before the world’s largest recorded tornado in El Reno, Oklahoma, ventured into the eye of 10 hurricanes, and covered blizzards, wildfires, and catastrophic floods across multiple continents. Her climate work is multi-dimensional, grounded in thorough reporting, myth-busting journalism, immersive field experiences, and inspiring education. By telling climate change stories through real-time weather events and the voices of leading experts, she brings the global crisis to a human, immediate scale. Whether she’s reporting live, inspiring youth, or speaking on extreme weather and climate resilience, Jaclyn brings credibility, energy, and clarity to every audience. A proud Fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society and The Explorers Club, Jaclyn holds a professional certificate in Sustainability from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
"Receiving this award in a year devoted to Leading with Courage means everything to me. It feels like a recognition not just of the battles I’ve faced, but of the voices I carry with me. My advice for other women? Stand proudly in your difference and share your story even when it’s hard. True courage is showing up as yourself, especially when the world makes it difficult."
- Farah Nasser, Global Speaker & Journalist, Canada
Farah Nasser is a journalistic powerhouse whose empathy-driven storytelling has illuminated some of the world’s most urgent, complex issues. As a former national anchor and award-winning correspondent, she’s had a front-row seat to history’s defining moments - chronicling our era's inflection points with unparalleled grace and clarity. Farah is a fierce advocate for truth, equity, and humanity, both on camera and off, and her voice resonates across newsrooms, classrooms, and boardrooms alike. A sought-after speaker on empathy, trust, authenticity and social justice, she sits on the board of the Canadian Journalism Foundation. Farah isn’t just telling stories, she’s rewriting how we tell them.
"My goal is to make a difference -- whether in my academic, activist, family or professional life. It is an honour to have my years of work towards environmental sustainability recognized."
- Dr. Sarita Srivastava, Dean, Faculty of Arts & Science, OCAD University, Canada
Dr. Sarita Srivastava is Professor of Sociology and Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Science and founding Director of the Global Centre for Climate Action at OCAD University in Toronto. Her research areas include social movements, race, and emotion. Her book,“Are You Calling Me a Racist? How to stop talking about race and start taking real antiracist action,” New York University Press, 2024 analyses the failures of diversity and antiracism workshops in organizations.
"Receiving this award in a year themed Leading with Courage is especially meaningful. It affirms the value of resilience and bold leadership in advancing sustainability through complexity. My advice to women: embrace transparency, stay true to your vision, and lean into collaboration—because meaningful change demands persistence, partnership, and courage."
- Breana Wheeler, U.S. Director of Operations, BRE, United States
Since 2016, Breana Wheeler has been U.S. Director of Operations for BRE, a 100-year-old building science research organization developing rigorous standards, tools, and qualifications to make buildings better for people and the planet. BRE created and delivers BREEAM, the world’s first and leading science-based suite of standards to assess and validate building sustainability. Since 1990, BREEAM has set the global benchmark across the building lifecycle, with millions registered and over 750,000 certificates issued in 100+ countries. Breana oversees U.S. deployment of BREEAM standards, supports technical work for the global framework, and focuses on Resilience and Social Impact. Previously, she advised multinationals on environmental and sustainability risk management. She is a Member of IEMA and a Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv). Breana holds dual Bachelor’s degrees in Geography and Political Science from San Francisco State University and a Master’s from King’s College London.
"Receiving this award during a year centered on Leading with Courage affirms that bold, values-driven leadership in fragile contexts is not only necessary—it’s transformative. To women leading change, I say: stay rooted in your vision, speak truth even when it shakes the room, and build coalitions that turn resistance into momentum."
- Joanne Alexis Bounouni, Co-Founder- Executive Director, Fondation Bracing Neighbors Haiti, Haiti
Joanne Alexis Bounouni is a Haitian systems strategist, computer engineer, and impact finance leader with 25+ years of experience in fragile and low-income markets. She is Chairman of GECA Haiti, a business advisory firm, and Executive Director of Bracing Neighbors, a nonprofit advancing economic development through behavior-led investments. Her work bridges governance, compliance, and blended finance to deliver scalable, community-centered solutions. Joanne spearheaded Haiti’s first integrated digital banking platform for credit unions, enabling financial access for 2 million underserved users, and mobilized $27 million in capital for women-led SMEs and local infrastructure. As Country Chair for Financial Empowerment under the G100 and a certified Resilience Ambassador, she champions inclusive climate finance and gender-equitable systems change. Her leadership in Haiti’s Women’s Economic Empowerment Census shaped national market strategies. Fluent in four languages, Joanne co-creates investment mechanisms that build resilience from the ground up.
"Receiving this award in a year themed Leading with Courage is deeply meaningful, reflecting my journey of challenging norms and driving change in a resistant industry. Over 22 years, I’ve advanced sustainable solutions aligned with environmental and business goals. My advice to women: embrace your voice—change often comes with resistance, but lasting impact requires courage and persistence."
- Gie Garcia, Co-Managing Director and Chief Sustainability Officer, NEO ,Philippines
Gie Garcia is a sustainability professional committed to transforming the built environment through innovation, equity, and environmental responsibility. Leading a major real estate portfolio, she integrates green building practices, regulatory compliance, and climate resilience into every project. Under her leadership, the company achieved 5-star BERDE certifications across all properties and became the first globally to earn the Portfolio IFC EDGE Zero Carbon certification. In 2023, it received an A+ resilience rating and top ESG scores from global benchmarks. Gie also led her portfolio to become the first in Southeast Asia to achieve both the WELL Health-Safety and WELL Equity Ratings, reflecting her commitment to inclusive, healthy spaces. Recognized with the Women in Green Building Award and Tatler Philippines’ Front and Female list, she also serves in leadership roles with international business chambers, advancing sustainable development across sectors.
"Receiving this award during a year focused on 'Leading with Courage' is deeply meaningful. Values-led leadership matters—even when unconventional or met with resistance. Each step forward carries progress. To other women: lead with clarity, integrity, and compassion—and remember, courage isn’t always loud; sometimes it’s choosing to act when silence feels easier."
- Lara Shewchuk, COO & CFO, Architech, Canada
Lara Shewchuk is a globally recognized executive and board leader advancing equity, impact-driven leadership, and sustainable business transformation. As COO & CFO of Architech, she embeds the UN SDGs into strategy and operations, linking purpose to performance across talent, innovation, and governance. Under her leadership, Architech joined the UN Global Compact’s SDG Ambition Accelerator and was one of four companies, out of 584 participants in 40 countries, invited to speak at the Closing Ceremony. Lara is a signatory of the CFO Coalition for the SDGs, advocating responsible finance and sustainable growth. She serves on the boards of Women’s College Hospital and the Canadian Centre for Women’s Empowerment, and advises CPA Ontario on sustainability. Recognized by WXN Top 100, Women Changing the World, INvolve’s LGBTQ+ Role Model list, and 50 Women to Watch for Boards, Lara champions equity as essential to lasting value.
"There’s no guidebook for solving today’s challenges, so leading with courage means taking risks and making unpopular choices. It’s frustrating that courage is even required—what’s at stake for people and places we love isn’t up for debate. But if you believe in the outcome, you must take the first step."
- Shannon Guihan, Chief Sustainability Officer & Head of TreadRight, The Travel Corporation, Canada
Shannon Guihan is Chief Sustainability Officer and Head of TreadRight at The Travel Corporation (TTC), a global group of 18 travel brands. She leads TTC’s sustainability strategy, including validated Science Based Targets and its commitment to net zero by 2050, and oversees the TreadRight Foundation, which has funded 65+ projects in 26 countries across Planet, People, and Wildlife. Under her leadership, TreadRight has emphasized nature-based solutions and biodiversity conservation. Shannon is a frequent voice in forums such as USTOA, PATA, ATTA, WTTC, UNWTO, and Phocuswright. In 2024, she joined COP29’s High-Level Roundtable on tourism and led TTC’s entry into Travalyst, and she is a trustee of The Travel Foundation. Named one of Travel Pulse’s “Most Influential Women in Travel” (2024), she holds an MSc from Oxford Brookes. A proud Newfoundlander, she began as a sea kayaking guide.
"There are no silver bullets. We all must negotiate change across our human, technology, and organizational networks and practices. Understand how AI will help you in this, and where it may create its own challenges."
- Terri L. Griffith, Keith Beedie Chair in Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Simon Fraser University, Canada
Terri Griffith helps organizations accelerate performance by integrating talent, technology, and technique toward targets aligned to the times. As the Keith Beedie Chair in Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Simon Fraser University, and with four decades of experience bridging academic research and practice, she brings evidence-based insights to digital transformation and organizational innovation. Previously, Terri spent two decades in Silicon Valley, including as Associate Dean at Santa Clara University’s Leavey School of Business. She provides executive education and consulting to Fortune 500 companies, startups, and non-profits, applying clear frameworks for measurable results. Her insights have appeared in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, and Sloan Management Review. Her award-winning book, The Plugged-In Manager, and her 2024 Organizational Design Community–Accenture Prize-winning research demonstrate strategies organizations can use to align people, technology, and systems for sustainable impact.
- Tori Tsui, Climate Activist, United Kingdom
Tori Tsui is an environmental campaigner, author and advisor from Hong Kong. She is a senior advisor for the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, campaigner for the Stop Rosebank coalition and works across a variety of initiatives within the music industry including Brian Eno's Earth Percent, In Place of War's Earth Sonic and Climate Live. She sailed across the Atlantic with the think tank Sail to the COP, sponsored by Stella McCartney after being named an agent of change. Her work has been celebrated on the front cover of Vogue with Billie Eilish and awarded by British Vogue (Vogue 25), Marie Claire (Future Changemaker), Cosmopolitan (Positivity Index), Elle Magazine (Green List), Town & Countryhouse (Future Leaders), among others. Her debut book It's Not Just You won Waterstones' books of the year awards and was shortlisted for the Wainwright prize.
"Receiving an award honouring women who lead with courage is deeply meaningful. True courage is acknowledging fear—whether for our children’s future or our own abilities—then moving beyond it to act. Ask “why not me?” instead of “why me?” and let your values guide your work; they’ll carry you far."
- Dr. Melissa Lem, President - Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment, Canada
Dr. Melissa Lem is a Vancouver family physician who also serves rural and northern communities across Canada. President of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment and Co-Founder of PaRx, Canada’s national nature prescription program, she is an internationally recognized leader at the intersection of nature, biodiversity, and health. She has advanced advocacy and policy on issues from extreme heat and fracking to sustainable health care and low-carbon transport. A widely published writer, climate panellist on CBC Radio, columnist for CBC TV Vancouver, and Clinical Assistant Professor at UBC, she prioritizes knowledge translation. She is co-investigator and advisor on two international research projects (PANDA and RESONATE) with $10M+ funding. Named to Vancouver Magazine’s Power 50 (2025), she is also recipient of the Canadian Eco-Hero Award, YWCA Women of Distinction, and Canadian Museum of Nature Inspiration Award.
"Receiving this award in a year themed Leading with Courage is a meaningful recognition of the challenges we face—and the power of persistence. It affirms my belief that human-centered storytelling can shape a sustainable future. To women striving for change: don’t yield—your voice, ideas, and courage are vital for progress."
- Hadeer Elhadary, Editor at ESG Mena & Founder of "Climate Tale" Initiative, Egypt
Hadeer Elhadary is an award-winning environmental journalist and media trainer based in Egypt. She is the Editor at ESG Mena and the founder of Climate Tale , a storytelling platform that raises awareness about climate change and sustainability across the Arabic-speaking world. Her journalism focuses on environmental justice, biodiversity, ocean protection, and sustainable agriculture, with stories that highlight the human impact of climate change. Hadeer has reported from key UN summits and global sustainability forums, amplifying the voices of communities from the Global South. Her work has been recognized by the German Embassy in Cairo, CFI, and the Egyptian Ministry of Environment. Beyond reporting, she leads training sessions for journalists and youth on how to tell impactful climate stories and counter misinformation. Hadeer uses storytelling as a tool to bridge the gap between science and communities, as she believes powerful narratives can inspire action and promote a more sustainable future.
- The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism), Government of Canada, Canada
The Honourable Rechie Valdez is Canada’s Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism). She made history in 2021 as the first Filipino Canadian woman elected to Parliament, representing Mississauga—Streetsville. Before entering politics, she earned a degree in computer science, built a decade-long career in corporate banking, ran a successful small business, and hosted a national television show. Since joining Cabinet, Minister Valdez has served as Minister of Small Business and as Chief Government Whip. A proud mother of two, she is a passionate advocate for women entrepreneurs, cultural diversity, youth engagement, and the inclusion of 2SLGBTQI+ communities. She is committed to advancing gender equality, strengthening economic participation, and creating safe, inclusive opportunities for Canadians. Her leadership reflects resilience, representation, and a strong community lens rooted in lived experience and service.
- Sukhinder Singh Cassidy, CEO, Xero, United States
Sukhinder Singh Cassidy is the Chief Executive Officer of Xero, a global small business platform serving millions of customers worldwide. A seasoned technology executive, entrepreneur, and investor, she has over 25 years of leadership experience scaling companies across consumer, media, and enterprise markets. Prior to Xero, she served as President of StubHub, leading the company through record growth and a $4 billion acquisition by Viagogo. Singh Cassidy has also held senior roles at Google, Amazon, and News Corp, and has founded multiple ventures including Joyus, a video commerce platform, and theBoardlist, a talent marketplace advancing gender diversity on corporate boards. Recognized by Fortune, Forbes, and Fast Company as one of the most powerful women in technology, she is a passionate advocate for inclusive leadership and entrepreneurship. Her career reflects bold decision-making, innovation, and a commitment to empowering underrepresented voices in business.
- Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, Marine Biologist, Policy Expert & Author, United States
Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson is a marine biologist, policy expert, and writer dedicated to building just and vibrant climate futures. A Brooklyn native, she is the co-founder of Urban Ocean Lab, a think tank for the future of coastal cities, and co-founder of the All We Can Save Project, which nurtures the leadership of women in climate. She co-edited the bestselling climate anthology All We Can Save and is the author of What If We Get It Right?: Visions of Climate Futures, which imagines solutions and possibilities at the intersection of science, culture, and justice. Johnson’s work spans advising foundations, governments, and businesses, to speaking globally on climate leadership and equity. Recognized as one of today’s most influential voices on climate, she integrates data, storytelling, and community wisdom to inspire courageous, solutions-driven action for a sustainable future.
- Sarah Finnie, Founding Director, The 51 Percent Project, Boston University, United States
Sarah Finnie is the Founding Director of The 51 Percent Project at Boston University’s Institute for Global Sustainability, a climate communication initiative advancing best practices to engage media, industry, government, finance, and communities in the clean-energy transition. Her research has won awards from the Association for Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) and focuses on combating climate misinformation, accelerating decarbonization, and shaping effective climate narratives. Finnie is also Founding Partner of WeSpire, a pioneering B Corp that equips global companies to drive sustainability, social impact, and wellbeing through employee engagement. A Climate Reality Leader, ecoAmerica trustee, and mentor, she serves on advisory councils for the Planetary Health Alliance, Second Nature, and Boston Harbor Now. With a background spanning The New Yorker, The Atlantic, and tech startups, Finnie blends communication expertise with systems thinking to catalyze climate action and resilience.
“Embrace your strength and lead with courage. True leadership isn’t the absence of fear, but acting despite it. In a world resisting change, your bravery lights the way for others. Each step you take paves a path for women who will walk beside you—and those who will go beyond.”
- Virginia Mijes Martin - Leader Technology Evangelist, Spain
Virginia Mijes is a technology leader with over 25 years of international experience, recognized for her pioneering work at the intersection of blockchain and sustainability. Based in Spain, she has built a global career spanning EMEA, APAC, and the UAE, where she collaborates on fintech platforms, application design, and emerging technology solutions. A technology evangelist, trainer, and international speaker, Mijes is dedicated to showcasing the power of innovation as an economic and social game changer with global impact. She places strong emphasis on education, research, and entrepreneurship, empowering new generations and giving visibility to projects that advance sustainable progress. Beyond her professional work, she actively contributes to global networks of women in technology, championing equity, inclusion, and leadership across industries. Mijes embodies how technological advancement can serve as a catalyst for resilience, sustainability, and social transformation.
- Dr. Amelia Clarke, Professor of Sustainability Management, University of Waterloo, Canada
Dr. Amelia Clarke is a Professor in the School of Environment, Enterprise and Development at the University of Waterloo and a leading researcher on sustainability strategy and governance. Former President of Sierra Club Canada, she has advanced sustainability since 1989, founding the Sierra Youth Coalition and its sustainable campus program, which transformed more than 80 Canadian campuses. She leads the $8.5M Municipal Net-Zero Action Research Partnership (N-ZAP) and co-leads the Youth & Innovation Project, focusing on implementing SDGs #8, #11, #13, and #17. Her work on collaborative strategy, cross-sector partnerships, and youth engagement is widely cited, with over 100 publications. Clarke has represented Canada at major UN summits, helped create protected areas, and continues to shape climate governance. A founding member of Women for Nature, #Thinklist30 honouree, and LGBTQ+ advocate, she champions youth-led change and pathways to deep decarbonization.
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- Adrianne Fekete, Founder & CEO, I Am Unbreakable® Podcast & Magazine, Canada
Adrianne Fekete is the Founder and CEO of I Am Unbreakable® Global Media, a groundbreaking platform dedicated to amplifying women’s authentic stories of resilience and leadership. Through the I Am Unbreakable® Magazine, Podcast, and Summits, she creates spaces where women across industries and communities can share their journeys, inspire change, and build networks of support. Adrianne’s work demonstrates that storytelling is not only a tool for empowerment but also a catalyst for systemic transformation in the face of climate crises, economic uncertainty, and social inequities. Beyond media, she is the owner of the Streetsville Derbys Junior Hockey Club, where she champions youth development and inclusivity through scholarships and mentorship. A visionary leader, Adrianne is redefining sustainability as resilience, equity, and authentic leadership—building a global movement that equips the next generation to rise, lead boldly, and create lasting impact.
- Cordelia Bahr, Environmental Lawyer, Lead Counsel in KlimaSeniorinnen Case & Partner, Bähr Ettwein, Switzerland
Cordelia Bähr is a Swiss environmental lawyer and Partner at Bähr Ettwein in Zurich. She gained global recognition as lead counsel for KlimaSeniorinnen Schweiz, the group of senior women who made history at the European Court of Human Rights by holding Switzerland accountable for inadequate climate action. Their landmark victory set a precedent for governments across Europe, affirming that climate inaction violates fundamental human rights. In addition to her work on climate and human rights law, Bähr advises public institutions, civil society, and businesses on environmental compliance and accountability. She teaches, writes, and speaks widely on climate justice and the role of the law in accelerating systemic change. Named among TIME 100’s most influential leaders, she embodies how courageous legal advocacy can empower vulnerable communities and shape a sustainable, rights-based future for all.
- Tina Fordham, Geopolitical Strategist & Founder, Fordham Global Foresight, United Kingdom
Tina Fordham is a trailblazing geopolitical strategist and the Founder of Fordham Global Foresight, advising boards, C-Suite executives, and investors on navigating the complexities of global change. Wall Street’s first Chief Global Political Analyst during her 17 years at Citigroup, she also created Eurasia Group’s financial markets research business and has advised UK prime ministers, 3-star generals, and the United Nations’ High-Level Panel on Women’s Economic Empowerment. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Fordham launched her firm to prepare leaders for what she defines as the “New Geopolitical Risk Supercycle,” urging them to raise their Political Quotient (PQ). A frequent commentator on Bloomberg, CNN, and CNBC, she also hosts The Navigator video series with the London Stock Exchange Group. Named to the FN100’s “Most Influential Women in European Finance” five times, she continues to pioneer new approaches to leadership in uncertain times.
- Katie Rothenberg, Vice President of ESG, AvalonBay Communities, United States
Katie Rothenberg is Vice President of ESG at AvalonBay Communities, where she leads company-wide strategies to reduce carbon emissions, enhance building efficiency, and advance corporate sustainability goals. With extensive experience in the insurance and real estate industries, she has built a career at the intersection of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) leadership and business strategy. Rothenberg has been recognized with the GCS Global Recognition Sustainability Award for her contributions to advancing responsible business practices. Holding an MBA in Real Estate and a certificate in Corporate Citizenship Leadership, she brings both technical expertise and strategic vision to her work. A nationally recognized speaker on green building and sustainable development, Rothenberg advocates for innovation, inclusivity, and resilience in the built environment. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to embedding sustainability into core business operations to create long-term value and impact.
- Daniela V. Fernandez, Founder & CEO, Sustainable Ocean Alliance, United States
Daniela Fernandez is the Founder and CEO of Sustainable Ocean Alliance (SOA), the world’s largest youth-led network of ocean leaders and innovators. At just 19, she launched SOA from her Georgetown University dorm room, transforming it into a global movement spanning more than 165 countries. Under her leadership, SOA created the world’s first Ocean Solutions Accelerator, supporting entrepreneurs developing technologies to address critical threats to our planet’s oceans. Recognized by leaders including John Kerry, Bill Clinton, and the European Commission, Fernandez is a Forbes 30 Under 30 Social Entrepreneur and a member of Friends of Ocean Action, a coalition of global changemakers advancing ocean sustainability. A sought-after international speaker and advocate for youth empowerment, she inspires the next generation to pursue bold, scalable solutions. Her vision blends innovation, leadership, and purpose to protect the oceans and secure a sustainable future.
- Stephanie Eagletail, Indigenous Fashion Designer & Founder, Stephanie Eagletail Designs, Canada
Stephanie Eagletail is the founder of Stephanie Eagletail Designs, a Calgary-based Cree fashion house blending Indigenous tradition with contemporary outerwear and couture. Her designs are renowned for their bold use of colour, intricate beadwork, and storytelling elements that honour Cree culture while embracing modern silhouettes. Through sustainable materials and ethical practices, she emphasizes respect for the land and community, ensuring each piece is created with intention and meaning. Beyond style, Eagletail’s collections empower Indigenous women, celebrate resilience, and amplify cultural pride on the runway and in daily life. Featured as one of Calgary’s leading creative voices, her work bridges fashion, identity, and sustainability. By weaving heritage into high fashion, Stephanie Eagletail Designs not only transforms outerwear into art but also redefines what it means to carry culture forward with strength, beauty, and justice.
- Lieutenant General Jamie Speiser-Blanchet, Commander, Royal Canadian Air Force, Canada
Lieutenant General Jamie Speiser-Blanchet made history in July 2025 as the first woman appointed Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), becoming its 22nd leader. A distinguished officer with more than three decades of service, she has held key command and staff positions across Canada and abroad, including operational deployments and leadership roles in NORAD and NATO. Known for her strategic vision and commitment to modernization, she is guiding the RCAF through a period of transformation marked by rapid technological change, evolving global threats, and Canada’s commitment to climate resilience and security. Speiser-Blanchet’s appointment represents a milestone for gender equality in the Canadian Armed Forces, inspiring future generations of women in military and aerospace leadership. Her leadership reflects resilience, innovation, and dedication to service, ensuring that Canada’s Air Force remains ready, inclusive, and future-focused.
- Professor Cristina Amon, Former Dean of Applied Science & Engineering, University of Toronto, Canada
Cristina Amon is a trailblazing engineer, researcher, and educator who made history as the first woman to serve as Dean of the Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering at the University of Toronto (2006–2019). Under her leadership, the faculty achieved record growth in enrollment, research funding, and diversity, transforming U of T Engineering into a global leader in innovation and inclusion. Amon is internationally recognized for her pioneering research in computational fluid dynamics and thermal management of electronics, which has influenced industries from aerospace to microelectronics. She has published extensively, supervised more than 80 graduate students, and received numerous honors, including election to the Canadian Academy of Engineering and the U.S. National Academy of Engineering. A champion for women in STEM, Amon’s legacy lies in breaking barriers and building pathways for future generations of diverse engineering leaders.
- Valerie Smith, Chief Sustainability Officer, Citi, United States
Valerie Smith is Citi’s first Chief Sustainability Officer, appointed in 2019 to lead the bank’s global Sustainability & ESG team. She is the architect of Citi’s 2025 Sustainable Progress Strategy, overseeing initiatives such as the $250 billion Environmental Finance Goal, climate risk disclosure, and implementation of the UN Principles for Responsible Banking. With more than a decade of experience in the environmental sector prior to joining Citi, Smith has built a career at the nexus of finance, conservation, and corporate responsibility. She advises on sustainable finance, ESG integration, human rights, stakeholder engagement, and net-zero transitions, helping align Citi’s business strategy with global climate and development goals. Serving on multiple boards and industry committees, Smith is recognized as a leading voice in sustainable finance, driving innovation and accountability across the financial sector to support a just and resilient future.
- Jenn Harper, Founder & CEO, Cheekbone Beauty, Canada
Jenn Harper is the Founder and CEO of Cheekbone Beauty, a sustainable cosmetics brand rooted in Indigenous values and social impact. Born in Thunder Bay and raised in the Niagara Region, she turned her lifelong passion for beauty into a mission-driven company that creates cruelty-free, vegan products while giving back to Indigenous communities. Since its founding, Cheekbone Beauty has supported the First Nations Child & Family Caring Society and other initiatives aimed at closing the education funding gap for Indigenous youth. Harper’s journey was shaped by personal loss, including the passing of her brother B.J., which became a driving force behind her mission. Today, she is an award-winning social entrepreneur recognized for advancing truth and reconciliation in business, educating Canadians on the legacy of Residential Schools, and redefining how beauty can be both empowering and sustainable.
- Melanie Nakagawa, Chief Sustainability Officer, Microsoft, United States
Melanie Nakagawa is Chief Sustainability Officer at Microsoft, where she leads the company’s global sustainability strategy, advancing ambitious goals to become carbon negative, water positive, and zero waste by 2030. A seasoned policy strategist and advocate, she previously served as Special Assistant to President Joe Biden and Senior Director for Climate and Energy on the U.S. National Security Council, where she helped shape international climate diplomacy and integrate sustainability into national security priorities. Earlier, she held senior roles at the U.S. Department of State and served as Director of Climate Strategy at Princeville Capital. Recognized for bridging government, business, and finance, Nakagawa has dedicated her career to advancing innovative solutions for climate change and energy transition. Her leadership at the nexus of technology, policy, and sustainability demonstrates how bold corporate action can accelerate global progress toward a just and sustainable future.
- Helen Clarkson, CEO, The Climate Group, United Kingdom
Helen Clarkson is Chief Executive Officer of The Climate Group, a global non-profit driving rapid climate action through partnerships with businesses and governments. Since assuming leadership in 2017, she has expanded the organization’s impact through initiatives such as RE100, which unites companies committed to 100% renewable power, and EV100, accelerating the transition to electric vehicles. Clarkson serves on the boards of the We Mean Business Coalition and Sustainable Development Capital Energy Efficiency Income Trust, shaping international collaboration and finance for sustainability. Previously, she worked in the corporate, charity, and UN sectors, bringing cross-sectoral expertise to climate solutions. In 2022, she was awarded an OBE for her outstanding contributions to climate change efforts. Clarkson’s leadership reflects bold vision, collaboration, and determination to catalyze systemic change, ensuring governments and companies worldwide step up to meet the urgency of the climate crisis.
- Jennifer Morris, CEO, The Nature Conservancy, United States
Jennifer Morris is Chief Executive Officer of The Nature Conservancy (TNC), leading nearly 6,000 staff in over 80 countries to tackle the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. With more than 25 years of conservation leadership, she is recognized for advancing innovative conservation finance, large-scale partnerships, and community-centered approaches to protecting nature. Prior to joining TNC, Morris spent two decades at Conservation International, serving as President and COO during a period of exponential growth and global impact. Named to TIME’s Climate 100 and Forbes 50 Over 50 for Impact, she also serves on advisory councils for Norges Bank Investment Management, Nestlé, and chairs the board of Enduring Earth. A storyteller and mentor, she began her career in Namibia and microfinance before transitioning into conservation, blending global vision with local action to deliver lasting sustainability solutions.
HISTORIC ICONS
The Historic Icons section pays tribute to the courageous women whose legacies continue to shape the present and inspire the future. These remarkable figures—scientists, activists, artists, Indigenous leaders, cultural visionaries, and political trailblazers—stood at the forefront of change long before sustainability became a global mandate.
This year, we honour 10 extraordinary women who broke barriers, challenged injustice, and redefined what leadership could mean in their time. From pioneering environmental science and defending human rights, to leading nations, protecting cultural heritage, and sparking global movements, their influence transcends generations.
Their lives remind us that today’s progress is built upon yesterday’s struggles. By daring to act with conviction, they carved pathways for the women recognized in the Global 50 today. The Historic Icons section celebrates their enduring impact—beacons of courage, resilience, and vision who paved the way for a more just and sustainable world. Without their sacrifices and trailblazing spirit, none of this would have been possible: our pursuit of environmental stewardship, economic prosperity, social inclusion, and just governance—pillars that together uphold the promise of equality, justice, and a sustainable future for all.
Agnès Varda, French Filmmaker & Feminist Voice, France
Agnès Varda was a pioneering French filmmaker, artist, and feminist voice whose work bridged cinema, social justice, and cultural memory. Often called the “mother of the French New Wave,” she defied conventions with films that centered ordinary people, women’s lives, and the overlooked corners of society. Deeply attuned to questions of environment, community, and identity, Varda explored themes of sustainability and humanity long before they entered mainstream discourse, using her art to highlight resilience and inequality. Her groundbreaking films, from Cléo from 5 to 7 to The Gleaners and I, blurred boundaries between documentary and fiction, giving voice to those marginalized by history and circumstance. Recognized with an Honorary Academy Award and celebrated globally, Varda remains an enduring icon whose creative vision, empathy, and courage paved the way for generations of women artists and changemakers.
Rosalie Edge, American Conservationist & Activist, United States
Rosalie Edge was a fearless conservationist whose advocacy in the early 20th century reshaped American environmentalism. Outraged by the destruction of bird populations and the complacency of conservation groups, she became a relentless voice for wildlife protection. In 1934, she established Hawk Mountain Sanctuary in Pennsylvania—the world’s first preserve for birds of prey—creating a haven that still stands today. Edge was unafraid to challenge powerful institutions, exposing corruption in established organizations and insisting on more rigorous protections for endangered species. She played a key role in influencing the passage of strong conservation laws and inspired future generations of environmental activists, including Rachel Carson. Edge’s uncompromising leadership exemplified citizen-driven advocacy, proving that individuals could hold governments and industries accountable. Her legacy lives on in modern conservation, where grassroots action and unwavering courage remain vital tools for protecting the natural world.
Barbe-Nicole Clicquot (Veuve Clicquot), French Champagne Entrepreneur & Innovator, France
Barbe-Nicole Clicquot, known as “Veuve Clicquot,” was a trailblazing entrepreneur who redefined women’s leadership in 19th-century business. Widowed at the age of 27, she boldly took over her husband’s struggling Champagne business, defying social conventions that limited women’s roles in commerce. Through her vision and tenacity, she pioneered innovations in winemaking, including the méthode champenoise riddling table, which revolutionized the clarity and quality of Champagne. Clicquot’s business acumen transformed her company into one of the world’s most recognized luxury brands, symbolizing excellence and resilience. Beyond profits, her story became a beacon for women entrepreneurs striving to break barriers in male-dominated industries. Known as “La Grande Dame of Champagne,” she embodied creativity, courage, and foresight. Barbe-Nicole Clicquot’s enduring legacy continues to inspire leaders across fields, proving that visionary women have always been capable of shaping industries and defining global standards.
Marjory Stoneman Douglas, American Journalist & Conservationist, United States
Marjory Stoneman Douglas was an author, journalist, and indefatigable environmentalist best known as the “Savior of the Everglades.” In 1947, her book The Everglades: River of Grass reframed Florida’s wetlands from a “worthless swamp” to a vital ecological treasure, galvanizing conservation efforts nationwide. For decades, she campaigned against development, drainage, and pollution, insisting that the health of the Everglades was inseparable from the wellbeing of Florida’s people and wildlife. Douglas founded Friends of the Everglades in 1969, mobilizing grassroots activism that pressured policymakers to act. Fiercely independent and outspoken, she continued her advocacy well into her nineties, often in defiance of powerful business and political interests. Her life demonstrated the impact of storytelling, persistence, and moral clarity in environmental protection. Today, the Everglades remains a living testament to Douglas’s legacy as one of America’s most courageous and visionary conservation pioneers.
Chief Wilma Mankiller, Indigenous Leader & Activist, United States
Chief Wilma Mankiller was the first woman elected Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, serving from 1985 to 1995. A transformative leader, she revitalized Cherokee communities through self-determination, economic development, and cultural renewal. Mankiller championed access to healthcare, housing, and education, and her leadership greatly expanded community-based projects that empowered tribal citizens to take ownership of their future. A survivor of personal hardships and systemic discrimination, she drew upon resilience and deep cultural roots to navigate political challenges. Mankiller became a national voice for Indigenous rights, gender equality, and sovereignty, inspiring women leaders across the United States and beyond. Her autobiography, Mankiller: A Chief and Her People, chronicles both her struggles and triumphs, offering a roadmap for resilient leadership. Recognized with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, she remains an enduring icon of justice, dignity, and the power of women in governance.
Rachel Carson, Marine Biologist & Author, United States
Rachel Carson was a marine biologist, conservationist, and author whose groundbreaking work transformed global awareness of environmental threats. Her 1962 book Silent Spring exposed the devastating effects of pesticides like DDT on ecosystems, wildlife, and human health, sparking public outrage and policy reform. Carson’s meticulous research and lyrical prose made complex science accessible, shifting the conversation around the environment from niche concern to urgent global priority. Facing fierce backlash from chemical companies and systemic sexism, she persisted with clarity and courage, testifying before Congress and influencing the eventual creation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Beyond Silent Spring, her earlier books celebrated the beauty and interconnectedness of the oceans, inspiring awe and stewardship. Widely regarded as the mother of the modern environmental movement, Carson’s vision continues to remind us that human survival is inseparable from the health of the natural world.
Maya Angelou, American Poet, Author & Activist, United States
Maya Angelou was a poet, author, singer, and activist whose artistry and voice defined resilience, identity, and justice for generations. Best known for her autobiography I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, she chronicled her experiences of race, gender, and trauma with honesty and grace, illuminating the power of self-expression. Over her career, Angelou wrote seven autobiographies, countless poems, and essays that celebrated Black culture and human dignity while confronting oppression. Beyond her writing, she was active in the civil rights movement, working with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, and later became a cultural ambassador through her performances and lectures. Awarded more than 30 honorary degrees and recognized globally, Angelou embodied the truth that art can be a force for healing and justice. Her legacy continues to uplift voices worldwide, reminding us that courage and creativity can transform societies.
Dame Whina Cooper, Māori Leader & Activist, New Zealand
Dame Whina Cooper was a revered Māori leader whose life’s work centered on land rights, cultural preservation, and social justice in New Zealand. Known affectionately as “Te Whaea o te Motu” (Mother of the Nation), she was instrumental in defending Māori land and advocating for community development. In 1975, at the age of 79, she led the historic Māori Land March from Northland to Parliament in Wellington, galvanizing national attention to Indigenous land loss. Cooper’s leadership, grounded in faith and resilience, spanned decades—she founded organizations to improve education, housing, and welfare for Māori communities, and consistently pressed governments for reform. Knighted as a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, she remains one of New Zealand’s most iconic figures. Cooper’s voice and vision helped spark movements for Indigenous rights worldwide, exemplifying strength, dignity, and a tireless pursuit of justice.
Mother Teresa (St. Teresa of Calcutta), Humanitarian & Missionary, India
Mother Teresa, canonized as St. Teresa of Calcutta, was a humanitarian and Catholic missionary who dedicated her life to serving the poorest of the poor. Born in Albania, she moved to India, where she founded the Missionaries of Charity in 1950, creating a global network of sisters devoted to caring for the sick, dying, and abandoned. Through homes, hospices, and orphanages, her order expanded to more than 130 countries, embodying compassion and selfless service. Though her methods were sometimes critiqued, her impact on humanitarian work remains unparalleled. Recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979, she became a global symbol of mercy and love in action. Guided by her belief in seeing Christ in every human being, Mother Teresa’s legacy continues to inspire acts of kindness and solidarity, reminding the world that dignity must extend to even the most marginalized.
Dorothy Stang, Nun & Environmental Activist, Brazil/United States
Sister Dorothy Stang was an American-born nun and environmental activist who dedicated her life to defending the Amazon rainforest and the rights of its Indigenous and rural communities in Brazil. A member of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, she moved to Brazil in the 1960s, where she fought against illegal logging, land grabbing, and violence targeting the poor. Stang championed sustainable farming projects and supported landless farmers through education and empowerment. Her outspoken advocacy drew hostility from powerful interests, and in 2005 she was assassinated by hired gunmen at age 73. Her death sparked international outrage, casting a spotlight on the dangers faced by environmental defenders. Honoured posthumously as a martyr for justice and the environment, Dorothy Stang’s courage and faith continue to inspire global movements for sustainability, human rights, and the protection of our planet’s most vulnerable ecosystems.
