Women can change the world. Some of them already are. Many pioneering female philanthropists from various backgrounds have gone on to dedicate their lives to making things better for their sisters and humanity as a whole. 

Their examples can inspire the next generation of girls seeking role models. They also stand as testimony that spirit is stronger than sexism. Here are eight inspirational women philanthropists and the impact they are making on the world. 

1. Katherine Lucey: Solar Sister

Katherine Lucey saw the need - and opportunity - to invest in women's enterprises in off-grid communities after working in the energy sector for 20 years. She helps women in Africa build independence by running their own businesses. What does this have to do with power? Quite a bit, as they specialise in solar devices to power small equipment like lights and phones that keep other women safer while facilitating the tech for their dreams. 

2. Halima Aden, UNICEF Ambassador 

Halima Aden was born a refugee and is now a supermodel and a UN ambassador. All eyes are on her when she hits the runway at a fashion show. However, she also visits her former home, a refugee camp in northwestern Kenya, and advocates for girls left behind when she was able to flee. 

3. Kimberly Bryant, Black Girls Code 

Despite being the largest force at work and making up 25% of the population, millennials only hold 6% of the nation’s wealth. Kimberly Bryant of Black Girls Code aims to change that by helping young women train for high-paying technology careers. She hopes to inspire the next generation of technology innovators to tackle problems like climate change. 

4. Rimu Sultana Rimu, Young Women Leaders for Peace 

Few people think about all that women lose during war. Despite her young age of 18, Rimu Sultana Rimu understands the pain. She lives in Cox’s Bazar, one of the largest refugee camps in Bangladesh, and speaks out against the mistreatment of women and girls there. Her actions improve literacy among those in the camp, giving them more opportunities. 

5. Jenny Gaither, Movemeant

Many people don’t exercise because they don’t feel comfortable in their bodies, but Jenny Gaither wants to change that dynamic. She’s the founder of Movemeant, a body-positive fitness curriculum that hosts an annual charity event. This year’s theme was “Dare to Bare.” She focuses on underserved communities, providing them with accessible exercises they can do without joining a gym. 

6. Malala Yousafzai, The Malala Foundation 

Some young people today might not remember when Malala Yousafzai was shot in 2012 at the age of 15. Her crime? She wanted to attend school and get an education. After addressing the United Nations a year post-recovery, she went on to form the Malala Foundation, a group dedicated to championing every girl’s right to an education. 

7. Salamishah and Scheherazade Tillet, A Long Walk Home 

The two sisters behind A Long Walk Home founded the charity to cultivate a new generation of leaders dedicated to equality and racial and gender justice. The organisation partners with artists, students, therapists, cultural institutions and community organisations to elevate marginalised voices and facilitate social change.

The sisters offer empowerment for all marginalised communities. Their support isn’t only for female minorities but also for members of the LGBTQ+ community, those who are disabled and those facing economic difficulties. 

8. Mabel van Oranje, Girls Not Brides

If you thought forcing children into marriage was a relic of a different culture or distant past, think again. Attempts to reform such laws often meet with opposition, even right here in the United States. 

Mabel van Oranje, founder of Girls, Not Brides, believes all young women deserve a chance to grow up before becoming mothers. She might be a real-life princess as the widow of Netherlands Prince Friso, but instead of spending her time taking tea in her tiara, she’s making life safer for other women by advocating for an end to child marriage. 

Women Making a Change 

Women must often stand up for themselves and each other in a patriarchal world. The inspiring female philanthropists above are making an impact on others while showing the world that women can be exceptional leaders. Emulating their example can make you a better advocate for change regardless of the size of your budget.

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Mia Barnes is a health and wellness writer and the Editor In Chief at Body+Mind. She especially enjoys writing about mental health, physical well-being, mindfulness, and healthy living. When she's not writing, you can find Mia reading romance novels, jogging, and trying new recipes!