Women have made remarkable strides since the suffragette days, when pioneers like Emmeline Pankhurst fought tirelessly for women's right to vote and the progress since then has been substantial, with women breaking barriers and achieving significant milestones in various fields.
However, despite these advancements, women still face considerable challenges, particularly in arenas like sport and politics that remain largely male-dominated, which is why it’s so important that we recognise the women who have not only broken glass ceilings for others but have also shown remarkable endurance, resilience, and feminine power.
Each of these remarkable women are authentic leaders in their own right; strong women who never shied away from being vulnerable and transparent and that’s what makes them stand out from the crowd to be so revered and celebrated.
Simone Biles
Widely regarded as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time, Simone made headlines four years ago for her brave decision to prioritise her mental health by withdrawing from several events at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Her decision sparked a global conversation about the pressures athletes face and the importance of mental health.
This year, Simone made a triumphant return to the Olympic stage in Paris. Her comeback was nothing short of extraordinary, as she not only competed but also clinched three gold medals and one silver medal, reaffirming her status as a gymnastics legend. This victory was more than just a testament to her physical abilities; it was a powerful narrative of resilience and the human spirit's capacity to overcome adversity.
By stepping back, Simone lifted the veil on the often-overlooked issue of mental health in sports, showing that even the strongest and most successful athletes are not immune to mental struggles. Her honesty and courage in speaking out has since encouraged others to take their mental health more seriously, helping to destigmatize mental health issues in the athletic community and beyond.
Simone’s legacy now includes not only her unmatched achievements in gymnastics but also her pioneering role in championing mental health for athletes worldwide.
Tatjana Smith
Homegrown swimming hero, Tatjana Smith (nee Schoenmaker) enjoyed a stellar career that included Olympic gold medals and setting several world records but, after years gruelling training, intense competitions, and the emotional toll of high-level sport, she was on the brink of retirement leading up to the Paris Olympics.
However, deciding to compete one final time and give it her considerable all resulted in her stunning victory in the 100m breaststroke final, a fiercely competitive race with some of the world's best swimmers vying for the top spot.
Undeterred by the pressure and buoyed by her years of experience, Tatjana delivered an extraordinary performance against much younger swimmers with her powerful strokes, impeccable technique, and sheer determination propelling her to victory.
By winning gold in the 100m breaststroke final and a silver in the 200m breaststroke final at the Paris Olympics, on top of the two medals she claimed in Tokyo four years ago, she became only the second South African woman (after Penny Heyns) to secure three career medals at the Games.
Tatjana’s journey to this gold medal is a story of perseverance and passion and her achievement highlighted the importance of resilience and the belief that it’s never too late to achieve greatness.
Celine Dion
For decades, Celine Dion has been renowned for her powerful voice and timeless hits, but she has also faced devastating personal challenges and health battles which, to many, might seem insurmountable.
Over the years, Celine has endured multiple miscarriages and the devastating loss of her husband, René Angélil in 2016, all the while contending with a rare neurological disorder known as stiff person syndrome, a debilitating condition characterised by severe muscle stiffness and painful spasms.
The symptoms of SPS can be unpredictable and severe, often hindering mobility and causing chronic pain so Celine's battle with this condition has been a gruelling one, requiring immense physical and emotional strength to manage.
Yet, despite these overwhelming difficulties, Celine has remained a beacon of resilience and inspiration, and her unwavering spirit has led her to an extraordinary comeback, taking to the Olympic stage to inspire millions.
Her performance at the Olympics was nothing short of extraordinary. It was a celebration of her indomitable spirit, showcasing her ability to rise above adversity and deliver a performance that touched hearts worldwide. The moment was not just about her music; it was about her story, her struggle, and her triumph.
Celine serves as a powerful reminder that, even in the face of profound adversity, it’s possible to find strength and continue pursuing one's passions. Her story is one of resilience, hope, and it reminds us that even in the darkest times, we can find the strength to rise, inspire, and make an impact.
Kamala Harris
Kamala Harris stands as a powerful inspiration to women across the globe, exemplifying perseverance, dedication, and trailblazing leadership. As the first female Vice President of the United States, and the first of Black and South Asian descent, Harris has shattered numerous glass ceilings, paving the way for future generations of women in politics and beyond.
Her journey to her current position began with her strong educational foundation and early career in law, first as a prosecutor then District Attorney of San Francisco and later as Attorney General of California where her work focused on issues such as marriage equality, criminal justice reform, and protecting the rights of vulnerable populations.
In 2017, Kamala's political career took a significant leap when she was elected as a U.S. Senator for California. Her tenure in the Senate was marked by her vocal advocacy for healthcare reform, environmental justice, and immigration rights. Her incisive questioning during Senate hearings earned her national recognition and respect, highlighting her legal acumen and commitment to accountability.
Kamala's historic vice-presidential candidacy in 2020, alongside President Joe Biden, was a momentous occasion and in 2024, Harris announced her candidacy for the presidential election against Donald Trump, continuing her journey of breaking barriers. Her candidacy is not just a bid for the highest office but a statement of empowerment for women and minorities, showcasing that leadership roles are within their reach. She inspires women by demonstrating that with determination and hard work, they can achieve the highest echelons of leadership and effect meaningful change.
Inspirational women like these are continually pushing the boundaries and creating pathways for others to follow and their achievements highlight both the progress made and the potential for further change.
By continuing to support and celebrate women's accomplishments, society can move closer to genuine gender equality, honouring the legacy of those who fought for these rights while acknowledging the work that still lies ahead.
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