March is Women’s History Month. During this pandemic, not all news for women-owned businesses has been bright, but female entrepreneurs are making a positive difference in the recovery. It is estimated that as many as 70% of new businesses are begun by women, and a majority of them are women of color. So who has motivated these women to start a business and hopefully hire employees? Well, some have said family members, colleagues, or women they admire.
Women — and female entrepreneurs — inspire me. These seven women encouraged me to become a leader and to advocate for issues and causes that I believe in. Each one changed the world and made life better for generations to come.
Marjory Stoneman Douglas
A prolific author, journalist and conservationist, Marjory Stoneman Douglas is best known for her 1947 bestseller, “The Everglades: River of Grass.” Because of her work, the Florida Everglades were, for the first time, seen as an environmental treasure. She fought successfully for national park designation and founded the Friends of the Everglades.
Sandra Day O’Connor
She was the first woman named to the U.S. Supreme Court. Sadly, O’Connor, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, retreated from public life in 2018. After retirement, she called for “putting country and the common good above party and self-interest.”
Jane Goodall
Through decades of intense study, Goodall has given the world an intimate look at humankind’s closest genetic relative: the chimpanzee. She travels the world as an advocate for science, conservation and peace.
Mother Teresa
Her power was in her kindness. Known in the Catholic Church as Saint Teresa of Calcutta, she devoted her life to teaching and caring for others in India’s slums. She received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979 for her efforts to help others overcome poverty. Her work and words inspire still today.
Oprah Winfrey
A woman so well-known few people use her last name, Oprah rose from humble roots to become one of the most influential people in the world. Her talk show was No. 1 in the country for 24 seasons and laid the groundwork for her media empire. Always thought-provoking, Oprah inspires with her strong sense of self and relentless pursuit of excellence.
Eleanor Roosevelt
The longest-serving First Lady, Eleanor Roosevelt was her husband’s closest political ally. She was deeply attuned to the needs of those in poverty and served as an activist, advocate and diplomat. After her husband’s death, she served for more than a decade as a delegate to the United Nations, working toward peace for all.
Maya Angelou
A poet, storyteller and activist, Angelou’s voice is one of the most important in American literature. Starting with her first book, “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” she gave voice to the African-American experience in the U.S. and touched people from all walks of life.
