The BBC has revealed its list of 100 inspiring and influential women from around the world for 2019.
This year 100 Women is asking: what would the future look like if it were driven by women?
From climate change activist Greta Thunberg, to trans woman Nisha Ayub who was put into a male prison aged 21, many on the list are driving change on behalf of women everywhere. They give us their vision of what life could look like in 2030.
Others, such as the “ghost” politician defying the mafia, and the footballer battling misogyny, are using their extraordinary personal experiences to blaze a path for those who follow.
Also making the list is Jamaican sprint queen Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce.
After storming to victory in 10.71 seconds at the women’s 100m final in Doha in September 2019, Fraser-Pryce now boasts more 100m world championship titles than Usain Bolt.
It makes the Jamaican track and field sprinter the oldest woman to ever win an Olympic or world 100m title – and the first mum to do so since 1995. She carried son Zyon, two, on her lap of honour, saying she wanted to “inspire women thinking of starting a family”.
Finding balance is never easy but we as women get to decide. I never limit myself as to what is possible as long as my body will cooperate. It’s important for the future of athletics that women continue to challenge themselves. I am excited to see just how far I can go, even at this stage of my career.
