Financial Times: Unveiling the 25 Most Influential Women of 2023
The Financial Times has released its ranking of the most influential women of the current year. This list was curated over several months through consultations with hundreds of FT journalists, readers, and industry leaders.
The ranking is divided into three categories—creators, leaders, and heroes. The first category includes singers, writers, designers, and more. The second features politicians, institutional leaders, and business executives. The third category showcases activists, athletes, diplomats, and scientists.
Among the 25 most influential women in the world, as recognized by the Financial Times, are Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission; Karin Keller-Zutter, Swiss Minister of Finance; Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors; actress and producer Margot Robbie; singer Beyoncé; and Ukraine's First Lady, Olena Zelenska, among others.
Each nominee received a characterization from another influential woman. For instance, in the column about Olena Zelenska, Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas praised her honesty and resilience, describing her as a global symbol of strength, particularly in addressing the mental health challenges faced by Ukrainians during the war.
"I admire Olena Zelenska most for her honesty. A screenwriter by profession, she knows how to choose her words carefully while remaining incredibly humane. Four months after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, she told a journalist, 'None of us are okay.' She knows what it's like to wake up and see your homeland occupied by an imperialistic neighbor; not knowing when or if you'll see your loved ones again; finding the strength within to fight for freedom despite it all. The world must now listen to Zelenska and provide Ukraine with what it needs to defeat Russia and end the suffering," noted Kaja Kallas.
Janet Yellen, U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, provided insights on Ursula von der Leyen, praising her exceptional leadership in dealing with the daily challenges of heading the European Commission during unprecedented global crises.
"I have witnessed firsthand how she brought member states together to adopt new and innovative measures to counter the economic consequences of Covid-19 and contribute to Europe's recovery. She played a crucial role in our collective response to Russia's unjust war against Ukraine — from powerful sanctions against Russia to robust European economic and security assistance to Ukraine, including her proposal for a new €50 billion Fund for Ukraine," wrote Janet Yellen.
World-renowned producer and philanthropist Oprah Winfrey offered her characterization of singer Beyoncé, stating that no description can truly capture the essence of Beyoncé's talent, inspiration, and artistry, regardless of what anyone has heard or read about the phenomenon she represents.
In addition, Politico published its annual ranking of the most influential people in Europe, including 28 individuals who will shape the politics and agenda in Europe in the coming year.