Women Leading the Future: CNBC Changemakers 2025 Highlights Trailblazers Across Industries

Innovation and leadership continue to define success in the business world. The 2025 CNBC Changemakers list celebrates 49 extraordinary women whose influence is reshaping industries such as biotechnology, artificial intelligence, healthcare, sports, media, finance, and entertainment. These business leaders and entrepreneurs are driving billion-dollar ventures, breaking barriers, and redefining what it means to lead in today’s evolving landscape.

Now in its second year, the CNBC Changemakers initiative recognizes female leaders who are not only challenging outdated norms but also setting new benchmarks for success. These women have demonstrated resilience, vision, and innovation, proving that leadership knows no gender boundaries.

Women in leadership roles have advanced significantly, with female representation in Fortune 500 companies reaching a record-high 11 percent. However, challenges persist, particularly in securing funding for female-founded ventures, which fell to just 2 percent in 2024. Despite these obstacles, the CNBC Changemakers list highlights the remarkable contributions of women who are making game-changing moves in business.

Among this year’s honorees is Toyin Ajayi, Co-founder and CEO of Cityblock Health, who is transforming healthcare accessibility for underserved communities. Paris Hilton, through her company 11:11 Media, is spearheading a new era of digital entertainment. In the realm of artificial intelligence, Lila Ibrahim, COO of Google DeepMind, and Lan Guan, Chief AI Officer at Accenture, are shaping the future of AI-driven technologies.

The list showcases leaders from diverse industries, each making a unique impact. Emma Grede, a serial entrepreneur and advocate for diversity, co-founded Skims and The Fifteen Percent Pledge, promoting inclusivity in fashion and retail. Sheryl Palmer, Chairman and CEO of Taylor Morrison, stands out as a leader in the housing industry, guiding one of the largest homebuilders in the United States. Jennifer Garner, Co-founder and Chief Brand Officer of Once Upon a Farm, is revolutionizing the organic food industry by promoting healthy nutrition for children.

Architecture and design also saw representation with Diane Hoskins, the Global Co-Chair of Gensler, who is shaping future city landscapes and workspaces. In the podcasting industry, Ashley Flowers, Founder and CEO of Audiochuck, has gained a massive following through her compelling true crime storytelling, proving that women are leading in new and emerging media spaces.

The CNBC Changemakers 2025 list is more than just an acknowledgment of individual success; it signifies a push toward greater inclusivity and representation in leadership. As industries evolve, these women play a crucial role in closing the leadership gap and inspiring future generations. Despite ongoing disparities in access to capital and executive positions, their achievements highlight perseverance and innovation.

For instance, Wawira Njiru, Founder and CEO of Food4Education, is addressing food insecurity, bringing sustainable solutions to communities in need. Dr. Reshma Kewalramani, President and CEO of Vertex Pharmaceuticals, is making groundbreaking strides in medical research. These women exemplify the resilience needed to navigate challenges while making an impact on society.

Looking ahead, the upcoming CNBC Changemakers Summit 2025 will bring these influential leaders together to discuss strategies for breaking barriers, fostering inclusive leadership, and driving industry-wide change. This summit offers a platform for collaboration and advocacy, paving the way for future progress.

As CNBC continues to spotlight accomplished female leaders, the Changemakers list serves as both an inspiration and a call to action. It challenges industries to support inclusivity while encouraging young women to envision themselves in positions of influence. The achievements of these changemakers are shaping the future of business, and their legacy will continue to inspire innovation and leadership for generations to come.