Every year, Time magazine releases its list of the most influential people in the world. This year, the annual list features 13 leaders who are working tirelessly to create a more equal world. These individuals come from different backgrounds and have different stories, but they all share a common goal – to make the world a better place for everyone.
The list includes leaders from various fields, including politics, activism, and business. Each one of them has made significant contributions towards promoting equality and social justice. Let’s take a closer look at some of these inspiring individuals and their work.
1. Jacinda Ardern – Prime Minister of New Zealand
Jacinda Ardern has been making headlines for her compassionate and inclusive leadership style. As the Prime Minister of New Zealand, she has implemented policies that prioritize the well-being of all citizens, regardless of their race, gender, or socio-economic status. She has also been a vocal advocate for women’s rights and has taken steps to close the gender pay gap in her country.
2. Malala Yousafzai – Education Activist
Malala Yousafzai’s name is synonymous with the fight for girls’ education. Despite facing numerous challenges and even surviving a targeted attack, she continues to be a powerful voice for education and gender equality. Through her Malala Fund, she has helped girls from disadvantaged backgrounds access quality education, giving them the tools to break the cycle of poverty.
3. Kamala Harris – Vice President of the United States
Kamala Harris made history when she became the first woman, first Black person, and first person of South Asian descent to be elected as the Vice President of the United States. She has been a trailblazer for women and people of color in politics and has been a strong advocate for social justice and equal rights throughout her career.
4. Xiye Bastida – Climate Activist
At just 19 years old, Xiye Bastida has become one of the leading voices in the fight against climate change. She is a member of the Indigenous Mexican Otomi-Toltec nation and has been using her platform to raise awareness about the impact of climate change on marginalized communities. She is also a co-founder of the Re-Earth Initiative, which aims to connect young activists from around the world and empower them to take action against climate change.
5. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala – Director-General of the World Trade Organization
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala made history this year when she became the first woman and first African to be appointed as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization. She has been a champion for economic development and has worked to promote fair trade practices that benefit developing countries. She also advocates for gender equality and has been a strong voice for women’s empowerment in her home country of Nigeria.
6. Adar Poonawalla – CEO of Serum Institute of India
Adar Poonawalla has been at the forefront of the fight against COVID-19. As the CEO of Serum Institute of India, the world’s largest vaccine manufacturer, he has played a crucial role in producing and distributing COVID-19 vaccines to low and middle-income countries. He has also been a vocal advocate for equal access to vaccines for all, regardless of their socio-economic status.
7. Angela Merkel – Chancellor of Germany
Angela Merkel has been a prominent figure in global politics for over 15 years. As the first female Chancellor of Germany, she has been a role model for women in leadership and has been consistently ranked as one of the most powerful women in the world. She has also been a strong advocate for gender equality and has implemented policies to promote women’s representation in politics and business.
8. Anthony Fauci – Chief Medical Advisor to the President of the United States
Anthony Fauci has been a trusted source of information and guidance throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. As the Chief Medical Advisor to the President of the United States, he has been at the forefront of the country’s response to the crisis. He has also been a vocal advocate for equitable access to healthcare and has worked to address health disparities among marginalized communities.
9. Malala Fund – Non-profit Organization
The Malala Fund, founded by Malala Yousafzai and her father, has been instrumental in promoting girls’ education around the world. The organization provides financial and advocacy support to girls from marginalized communities, helping them overcome barriers to education. Their work has had a significant impact
