8 Female Trailblazers to Know

by Alyx Holder

Happy Women’s History Month and International Women's Day, everyone! Celebrating the power of womanhood and the often unsung contributions of women throughout history is something we can all get behind. From the trailblazing, glass ceiling smashers before us to the ladies continuing to change the game today, this month is dedicated to the go-getters, the game changers, and the thought leaders in us all. As women in business, we know the challenges and triumphs of paving our own path; together, we can do it all.

Women have helped to shape and mold the world as we know it today since the beginning of time. Despite many obstacles, ridicule, and misogynistic doubts, these eight women persevered and made history by doing it.

Ada Lovelace, first computer programmer

Born Augusta Ada King, the Countess of Lovelace was both a mathematician and writer. She worked with Charles Babbage to develop the Analytical Engine, a general-purpose mechanical computing device that would lay the blueprints for modern computer technology. She is also believed to be one of the first people to recognize the greater applications of such a device.

Katherine Johnson, NASA mathematician

The inspiration behind the award-winning film Hidden Figures, Katherine Johnson was an African-American woman who broke boundaries by working to make America’s first crewed flight a reality. She also subsequently helped in America’s first moon landing. With more than 35 years of service, she was honored by NASA in 2017 with the opening of the Katherine G. Johnson Computational Research Facility. Johnson also received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015.

Shirley Chisolm, first African-American woman elected to Congress

In 1963, Shirley Chisolm became the first African-American woman elected to Congress, representing the 12th Congressional District in New York. Chisholm began her career as an educator before becoming a vocal civil rights activist and feminist. In 1972, she made history again as the first African-American woman to run for president.

Michelle Obama, first African-American First Lady

As Former President Barack Obama made history as the first African-American to hold the highest office, Former First Lady Michelle Obama also made history as the first African-American First Lady. A graduate of both Princeton University and Harvard Law School, Obama is also tied with Hilary Clinton as the two most educated First Ladies. During her tenure in office, Michelle focused on youth fitness and nutrition initiatives to encourage the next generation to lead healthier lives.

Sally Ride, first American woman in space

Astronaut and physicist Sally Ride became the first American woman in space in 1983. She was the third overall woman in orbit, following Valentina Tereshkova and Svetlana Savitskaya of the USSR. As part of the Challenger crew, Ride launched satellites into space using a robotic arm.

Ida B. Wells, African-American journalist, and activist

Throughout the 1890s, abolitionist and journalist Ida B. Wells exposed the horrors of racism in the South and across the country, advocating against lynching and other race-based acts of violence. She also founded the National Association of Colored Women (NACW) and is considered a founding member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

Katharine Graham, first female Fortune 500 CEO

In 1963, Katharine Graham took over her family’s newspaper, the Washington Post. As a publisher, Graham oversaw some of the most salacious news stories in history, including the Watergate scandal that would eventually lead to Richard Nixon's resignation. In 1972, Katharine took over as CEO of the Washington Post, becoming the first female CEO of a Fortune 500 company.

Kamala Harris, first African-American, Asian-American, female Vice President

Kamala Harris recently made history as the first black, first Asian, and first female Vice President in United States History. She is the former Attorney General and former Senator of California, where she helped to legalize same-sex marriage.

Uplifting Women in Business

For women entrepreneurs and women-led businesses, the struggle continues regardless of the progress and strides we have made thus far. That is why Jali Creatives is dedicated to helping you make the most out of our marketing efforts. We know you have a story to tell and a place at the table. Our passion is in helping small businesses find their niche, strengthen their voice, and accomplish their goals.

Want to know how we can help you? We’re always available for a chat to discuss your needs! Contact us now for a free consultation. Call or email us today!