Unstoppable: Remarkable women who shaped 2024

Women who shaped 2024. (Courtesy)

In 2024, women across the globe shattered barriers, broke records, and left indelible marks in their fields. Their accomplishments resonate beyond mere achievements, proving resilience, vision, and purpose.

Kamala Harris

In 2024, Kamala Harris once again made headlines as she vied to become the first female President of the United States. Though narrowly defeated by Donald Trump, her campaign broke barriers, marking her as the first African American and Asian American woman to be a major party’s presidential nominee. Harris’s journey resonates with millions of women who see themselves reflected in her.

Harris’s vice presidency has also been a cornerstone of the Biden administration, where she focused on issues such as voting rights, climate change, and women’s empowerment. Her achievements showcase the enduring strength required to shatter political ceilings in one of the world’s most powerful nations.

Dorothy Ghettuba

Kenyan powerhouse Dorothy Ghettuba continues to redefine African storytelling on a global scale. In 2024, she ascended to the position of Director of Content (Film and Series) for Netflix Africa. Since joining Netflix in 2019, Ghettuba has spearheaded groundbreaking projects like Blood and Water and Young, Famous, and African. Her leadership has amplified African voices, ensuring that the continent’s rich narratives reach global audiences.

Ghettuba’s vision has not only revolutionised the African entertainment industry but also created opportunities for local talent. Her role in transforming Africa’s creative landscape makes her an undeniable force in modern media.

Faith Odhiambo

As the 51st President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), Faith Odhiambo became the second woman to lead the institution. 2024 saw Odhiambo taking bold stands against extrajudicial killings and defending citizens’ rights amidst national unrest. Her fearless advocacy during protests against the controversial Finance Bill earned her admiration from Kenyans across the board.

Faith’s work extends beyond legal battles; she’s a symbol of hope for young women aspiring to leadership roles in historically male-dominated fields. Her presidency marks a significant step toward gender parity in Kenyan law.

Faith Kipyegon

Faith Kipyegon’s 2024 season cemented her as one of the greatest middle-distance runners of all time. At the Paris Olympics, she shattered her own Olympic record, clinching gold in the 1500m with a jaw-dropping time of 3:51.29. She also overcame controversy in the 5000m event, where she successfully appealed a disqualification to secure her silver medal.

The Kenyan star dominated globally, winning at the Diamond League Final and the inaugural Athlos event in New York. Kipyegon’s journey is a tale of unmatched excellence, making her a living legend in athletics.

Beyond her remarkable achievements on the track, Faith Kipyegon recently added another prestigious honour to her growing list of accomplishments. She was awarded an honorary Doctorate in Education by the University of Eldoret, recognising her contribution to sports and her role as an inspiring figure in Kenya and beyond.

Wawira Njiru

Wawira Njiru’s visionary work as the founder of Food 4 Education has revolutionised the concept of school feeding programs in Kenya. In 2024, her organisation expanded to feed over 150,000 children daily, ensuring that no student had to learn on an empty stomach. Her model combines nutrition with technology: parents can pay a minimal fee for nutritious meals using an innovative mobile wallet system called Tap2Eat.

Wawira’s efforts have not only improved school attendance and performance but also reshaped the narrative around childhood hunger in Kenya. Recognised globally, she has received accolades such as the Icon Award, the Global Citizen Prize, Skoll Award for Social Innovation, Elevate Prize Award, Cisco Youth Leadership Award and recognition from the Schwab Foundation. Her story is a shining example of how local solutions can have global impacts, touching lives by addressing systemic issues with practical and scalable solutions.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o, known for her Oscar-winning acting, took 2024 by storm not just on screen but as a global cultural icon. She became Chanel’s latest ambassador, the first African to hold the position, symbolising her influence in both fashion and film. Nyong’o also made history as the first African president of the Berlinale jury, influencing some of the most prestigious film decisions globally.

From her critically acclaimed podcast projects to her philanthropic efforts in Kenya, Nyong’o exemplifies the power of using fame to amplify important causes.

Crystal Asige

Nominated Senator Crystal Asige, and advocate for disability rights, made history as one of two Kenyans named in Time Magazine’s 2024 Time100 Next list. This recognition celebrates leaders shaping the future, and Asige earned her spot for her transformative work in championing equity and accessibility for persons with disabilities.

Her impactful legislative contributions include pushing for tax breaks for caregivers of children with disabilities and advocating for Kenyan Sign Language support, ensuring inclusivity in governance. Beyond her political achievements, she is an award-winning artist and founder of The Crystal Asige Foundation, which promotes empowerment for marginalised groups.

Beyoncé

Few artists can claim a year as monumental as Beyoncé’s 2024. Her Renaissance World Tour became one of the highest-grossing tours in history, setting new standards in live entertainment. Simultaneously, she became the most-nominated artist in Grammy history, an unparalleled feat that cements her legacy as an artist who continually redefines excellence. Her ability to reinvent herself while staying true to her artistry makes her a cultural icon whose impact transcends generations.

Rihanna

Rihanna’s 2024 accolades further solidified her legacy. Forbes ranked her among America’s richest self-made women, and she became the artist with the most diamond-certified singles in history. Beyond music, Rihanna’s Fenty brand has revolutionised beauty and fashion, championing inclusivity and diversity. Her achievements inspire a generation of women aiming to balance creativity with entrepreneurship.

Huldah Momanyi Hiltsley

Huldah Momanyi Hiltsley made history in 2024 by becoming the first Kenyan-born politician elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives. Representing District 38A, a richly diverse area with a significant African immigrant population, Hiltsley’s win was not just a personal milestone but a breakthrough for representation. Running under the Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party, she garnered 64.78% of the vote.

Her campaign resonated with voters through its focus on affordable housing, equitable education, accessible healthcare, and tailored economic opportunities. Hiltsley’s victory is particularly significant given her roots in Kenya’s Nyamira County and her immigrant journey to the United States in the 1990s. As a mother and a graduate of Bethel University, she has dedicated her career to uplifting marginalized voices and fostering inclusivity.

South Africa’s Tyla

Tyla, a South African singer and performer, has cemented her place on the global stage with groundbreaking achievements this year. Most notably, she won the inaugural Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance for her viral hit “Water.” This award celebrates African music’s growing influence on global platforms. Tyla’s victory stands out as she competed against heavyweights such as Burna Boy and Davido.

Beyond the Grammys, Tyla has also excelled in other arenas. At the MTV Europe Music Awards, she bagged three trophies, including Best African Act, recognising her contributions to bringing African music to new audiences. Her EMA performance, featuring a fiery rendition of “Water,” captured her charisma and talent, reaffirming her role as a rising star in the global music industry.​

Despite facing criticism and immense pressure, Tyla continues to break barriers and uplift African music on international stages. Her ability to innovate in the Amapiano genre, has positioned her as a role model for young African artists aspiring to global success.

The accomplishments of these women are more than milestones—they are movements. From redefining political landscapes to challenging societal norms, these women exemplify what it means to lead with purpose. As we celebrate their achievements, we are reminded of the collective power of women to drive innovation, inspire change, and build a better future.

In 2024, they didn’t just break barriers—they built bridges for others to cross. Their stories are a call to action for all of us to dream bigger, aim higher, and never settle for less than extraordinary.