Every March, the world celebrates International Women’s Month to recognize women’s contributions in various fields. This momentum also promotes gender equality, highlighting the achievements of female leaders and inspiring a new generation to continue to advance. Cicely Hamilton once stated that, despite their intelligence and personality, women often face a long struggle because society limits the roles they can play. However, today, that situation is beginning to change. Women’s leadership is becoming increasingly important across sectors as more women occupy strategic positions. They demonstrate how leadership, coupled with women’s empowerment, can break barriers and open up opportunities for women in the future.
Breaking Barriers, Building Momentum — Celebrating International Women’s Month
Every March, the world commemorates International Women’s Month to honour women’s achievements and advance gender equality. It is closely tied to International Women’s Day on March 8th, which was first celebrated in the early 1900s, during the era of rapid industrialisation.
The primary goal is to position women as agents of change in various aspects of life, from the business world to the political arena. And global data speaks for itself. The number of female CEOs is expected to reach 33 in 2025, up from 28 the previous year, or approximately 6.6%.
This figure is not just a statistic. It is proof that female leadership and women’s empowerment continue to advance, breaking barriers to pave the way for the next generation of women.
Women Who Break Barriers This International Women’s Month
In celebration of International Women’s Month, we present a selection of extraordinary female leaders who are redefining leadership in this era. From entrepreneurs and innovators to artists and influencers, they come with a message to empower those around them and break boundaries with every step they take. Here’s a closer look at the women shaping the future and inspiring the next generation.
Heesun Kim — Founder and CEO of Collav Dubai
“Mother Nature contains the universe within, and it is the Mother herself who governs that universe.”
Heesun Kim, founder and CEO of Collav Dubai.
That quote reflects Heesun Kim’s fundamental leadership philosophy: empowering means giving control, opening opportunities, and fostering the confidence to thrive. This principle not only serves as the foundation for the companies she mentors but also carries a powerful message for women who want to lead and make a real impact in business and technology.
The CEO of Collav Dubai‘s dedication is evident in her efforts to empower startups in advanced technology and content. She helps them penetrate the Middle Eastern market, connects them with global technology and financial centres, and supports their growth by connecting them with targeted market experts.
Jin Kyung Park — CEO and Founder of FOURSUMMER
Amid fierce competition in the Korean beauty industry, Jin Kyung Park built FOURSUMMER with unwavering perseverance and faith in her vision. Every step of her journey emphasised the importance of consistency and resilience. This is especially true as a young female leader who proves that women are capable of leading and creating real change.
“I had the privilege of working in the beauty industry under Han Hyun-ok, CEO of Clio Cosmetics, whose leadership deeply shaped my perspective on building a company. I still carry her words with me: Don’t stop. Endure and keep going.” Jin Kyung Park, CEO and Founder of FOURSUMMER
That experience taught Jin Kyung one lasting lesson: no matter how difficult the journey, continuing at your own pace is true strength. Through FOURSUMMER, she proves that women can lead impactful businesses. She also inspires the next generation of women to remain consistent and never give up.
Shinta Dhanuwardoyo — CEO and Founder of bubu.com & startupindonesia.co
In our previous interview, Sintha Dhanuwardoyo shows that she is eager to drive innovation as well as create opportunities for others to grow and succeed. Therefore, wherever her perspective is placed, it remains relevant, and her perspective on women is no exception.
“The most powerful thing a woman can do is not just succeed, but to lift others as she rises. When women support women, we accelerate change for generations. For me, empowerment means creating momentum. Every time a woman shares knowledge, opens a door, or believes in another woman’s potential, we move the world forward.”
Shinta Dhanuwardoyo, CEO and founder of bubu.com and startupindonesia.co.
Through her vision, Sintha shows that women’s leadership is not just about personal achievement, but also about building momentum, empowering others, and fostering a culture of mutual support. Women can create a lasting impact by lifting those around them and accelerating change across industries.
Jinju Jeon — Director, Vice President, and Journalist of beSUCCESS
“For me, my current favorite is a quote by Marcus Aurelius: ‘Do not act as if you were going to live ten thousand years. Death hangs over you. While you live, while it is in your power, be good.”
Jinju Jeon,Director, Vice President, and Journalist of beSUCCESS.
This quote embodies Jinju Jeon‘s perspective as a journalist and female leader of beSUCCESS. For her, Marcus Aurelius’s message serves as a timeless reminder that time is the most limited resource. Therefore, every step taken must be grounded in meaning and a clear purpose.
The principles she upholds serve as a reminder to the younger generation of women, a tangible encouragement to boldly stand out, create, and create impact. Not later, but now. Through in-depth coverage of innovation, funding, and the startup ecosystem, she not only conveys information but also engages readers. She also inspires women to boldly lead, seize opportunities, and drive real change, without having to wait for the “perfect” moment.
Gwyn Dorado — Singer
In an interview with Kpoppost, Gwyn shared that she always finds her own story first before sharing it with the world, often through songs with deep meaning. This reflects a broader lesson for women: success often comes from embracing uncertainty and taking bold steps forward. The Filipino singer navigates the creative industry with courage, pushing forward even when
the outcome is uncertain. Her journey shows that female leaders can thrive by believing in themselves, remaining flexible, and facing the unexpected with confidence.
“The unexpected always happens, so do it anyway.”
Gwyn Dorado, Singer.
NVIY — Indie Artist
What makes NVIY’s journey in the Korean indie music world so fascinating is how she maintains consistency and momentum amidst all the challenges she faces. Coming from a design background, she approaches music with strategic creativity. She’s not just the face of her work. She’s the writer, producer, and sound engineer behind every note she creates.
Her journey teaches her that failure isn’t the end, but rather an integral part of the process. Persistence in the face of setbacks is the key to growth. An inspiring lesson for women pursuing careers in the creative industry.
“I always try to keep momentum and stay consistent. Mistakes will come along the way, and things might not go as planned, but each mishap is an opportunity to learn something new. One step back, two steps forward.”
NVIY, Indie Artist.
Core Message Across All Leaders
Across various industries, whether it’s technology, beauty, cultural intelligence, music, or even the creative arts, these women prove that true leadership is rooted in perseverance, empowerment, and a passion for uplifting others. For the worlds of business and creativity, their stories offer invaluable lessons:
- Perseverance is the foundation of everything. No great achievement comes without setbacks. Every obstacle is a stepping stone, not a barrier.
- Bridging worlds. As these leaders demonstrate, those who can combine creativity, business, and innovation will survive and thrive in an era of change.
- Embrace empowerment as a lifestyle. Leadership isn’t about standing alone at the top. It’s about paving the way and inspiring other women to step forward.
They are reshaping what the future looks like. And ensuring that in that future, more women will be at the forefront.
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