CNBC Unveils Inaugural Changemakers List: 50 Women Transforming Business in 17 Sectors

The Inaugural CNBC Changemakers Event

On April 18th, CNBC will launch its first-ever Changemakers event in New York City. This event will celebrate and showcase the pioneering efforts of 50 women who are reshaping and revolutionizing business across various sectors. CNBC's rigorous selection process saw 720 nominations, resulting in an exclusive group of extraordinary women.

The Class of 2024 Changemakers

The inaugural class of 2024 Changemakers represents 17 different sectors, with prominent presence in healthcare, tech, and consumer products & financial services. Notably, 15 startup CEOs and founders comprising the class have a combined company valuation exceeding $47 billion, while 11 public company CEOs oversee firms with a total market cap of approximately $170 billion.

Global Impact and Diverse Innovations

Notably, almost one-fifth of the featured women are based outside the U.S., demonstrating the global reach and influence of the Changemakers. Their diverse innovations span from deploying technology to enhance philanthropic efforts to disrupting the sports business.

Key Achievements in 2023

Each Changemaker has achieved significant milestones in 2023, driving substantial growth in their respective businesses and addressing critical societal issues. Notable individuals include Anat Ashkenazi, the CFO of Eli Lilly, who secured key manufacturing capacity during the emergence of a groundbreaking weight-loss drug era. Additionally, Bobbie CEO Laura Modi addressed the baby formula shortage with an innovative new product, and Baby2Baby co-CEOs Norah Weinstein and Kelly Sawyer Patricof transformed the diaper manufacturing and distribution landscape.

Creating New Market Opportunities

Many Changemakers are utilizing their influence to develop new market opportunities in various industries. This includes Alex Cooper, who is revolutionizing the podcast business, and actor Tracee Ellis Ross, who is reshaping the hair-care industry with Pattern Beauty. Similarly, Naomi Osaka is elevating her impact in both the tennis world and the skincare industry.

Aligning Purpose and Profits

A key trend identified by CNBC is the alignment of purpose and profits among this new generation of women leaders. These innovative leaders are creating businesses that thrive by achieving environmental or social good. Svanika Balasubramanian's rePurpose Global is a prime example, with a model that succeeds when companies take steps to reduce their plastic production and environmental impact. Furthermore, Jessica Chang, the CEO of Upwards, is reimagining the business of child care to make it more widely accessible and affordable, while Maayan Cohen's Hello Heart aims to help individuals manage cardiovascular health.

Reformers and Pioneers

In addition to driving business growth, the Changemakers are reformers, pioneering new approaches to fix broken systems. They are also providing female consumers with innovative options in traditionally overlooked areas. Kate Ryder's Maven is bridging major gaps in women's and family health care, while Monique Rodriguez's Mielle Organics offers new options for natural hair care. Moreover, National Women's Soccer League Commissioner Jessica Berman is showcasing the broad appeal of women's sports and closing the pay gap among professional athletes.

Trailblazers in Technology and Renewable Energy

Despite women's underrepresentation in technology and artificial intelligence, several Changemakers are playing pivotal roles in leveraging AI to advance their businesses and industries. Clara Shih, the CEO of Salesforce AI, is facilitating the deployment of AI across organizations, while Michelle Zatlyn, co-founder and COO of Cloudflare, is providing companies with AI tools to strengthen cybersecurity and reduce costs for critical infrastructure providers. In the realm of renewable energy, Dandelion Energy CEO Kathy Hannun and Twelve's Etosha Cave are forging new paths with innovative approaches.

Inspiring Stories of Authentic Leadership

The diverse stories of the Changemakers serve as a powerful reminder that authentic leadership paves the way for success. Their groundbreaking initiatives and unwavering dedication are reshaping industries and setting new standards for leadership.

Author's Insight

CNBC's Julia Boorstin, the author of "When Women Lead," has delved into the stories of these remarkable women who have defied the odds to establish and lead successful organizations. Her exploration of the concept of "reformers" showcases how these women are actively working to fix broken systems, unveiling a new era of leadership and innovation.