Top 35 Most-Powerful Women in 2021: Trailblazers in Every Field

Women in the 21st century have been reshaping the world, defying stereotypes, and proving every cliché about gender capabilities wrong. They have not only excelled in fields traditionally dominated by men but also made significant contributions to science, technology, sports, and politics. This Women's Week, we celebrate the 35 most influential women who are leading the way in 2021.

Technological Leadership

KK Shailaja - Kerala's Health Minister has been instrumental in the fight against COVID-19, recognized by the United Nations for her strategies. Roshni Nadar Malhotra - Chairperson of HCL Technologies, she led the company to innovation and growth, making it one of the most powerful women in India. Dr. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw - A billionaire entrepreneur and chairperson of Biocon Ltd., she has contributed significantly to society and technology. Byju Raveendran - Co-founder of the educational app Byju’s, Raveendran has revolutionized the world of e-learning. Upasana Taku - Co-founder of MobiKwik, Taku has been instrumental in India’s payments revolution. Radhika Ghai - Co-founder of the unicorn company Shopclues, Ghai is a role model for aspiring female entrepreneurs in India. Nirmala Sitharaman - India's current Finance Minister, Sitharaman has been ranked among the most powerful women globally. Vandana Luthra - Founder of VLCC, Luthra has become one of the most renowned entrepreneurs in India and internationally. Ritu Kumar - A prominent fashion designer and entrepreneur, Ritu Kumar has won international respect for her designs.

Scientific and Technological Innovators

Dutee Chand - Despite facing challenges, Chand is a strong advocate for female athletes and a recipient of the prestigious Arjuna award. Anuradha TK - As the director of the Geosat program at ISRO, Anuradha believes in women's potential in science and technology. Dr. Nandini Harinath - Deputy operations manager for the Mars orbiter mission, she is proud to be a part of the Mangalyaan mission. Avani Chaturvedi - The first Indian woman fighter pilot to fly the MiG-21 Bison solo, Chaturvedi inspires many women in defense sector. Subhadeepa Saha - First woman to fly the Heavy Lift carrier aircraft, Saha is paving the way for other women in aviation.

Visionary Leaders in Business and Technology

Sharmila Nicolet - The youngest professional golfer from India, she has broken barriers in the male-dominated golfing world. Lakshmi Pisharodi - CMO of Indus Jain Capital, Pisharodi is a visionary leader in the fintech and marketing industries. Nandita Das Smith - President of the International Yoga Federation, Das Smith is a role model for women in spirituality and leadership.

These women are just a few examples of the thousands of women who are making a difference. They are not only breaking barriers but also setting new standards for success. They are role models for future generations and continue to inspire us all.

Key Takeaways

Women are making groundbreaking contributions in technology, science, and business. Leadership and innovation are not gender-specific; women are paving the way in every field. Despite challenges, women continue to inspire change and break stereotypes.

Conclusion

As we celebrate Women’s Week, let us honor these and other incredible women who have made a difference. Their achievements remind us that women, just like men, are capable of amazing things. It is important for us all to support and encourage women to reach their goals and make positive changes in the world.