Written by: Jane Morales, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Here’s to strong women: may we know them, may we be them, may we raise them. This adage encapsulates the invaluable contribution of women to every facet of life. From the cradle of civilization to the bustling modern world, women have been the unwavering pillars upon which societies are built and sustained.
Women: The architects of early societies
The role of women in shaping human evolution and society cannot be overstated.
Anthropological studies reveal that women, as gatherers, were crucial to early human diets, providing stable food sources while men hunted. Their gathering knowledge led to the development of agriculture, literally planting the seeds of civilization.
Women hold a significant and indispensable role in every aspect of society. From the home to the workplace, from human evolution to the future generations, and from the sciences, law, fashion, business, technology, or entertainment world to everyday life, women have made invaluable contributions that have shaped our world today.
It is crucial to recognize and appreciate women's importance in moving towards a more prosperous, positive, peaceful, inclusive, and equitable society.
The unseen power in daily life and family
In the family unit, women have been the unsung heroes. They play a vital role as caregivers, nurturers, and role models. They are often the glue that holds the family together, providing love, support, and guidance to their children and partners.
Women are not only responsible for the physical well-being of their families but also for their emotional progress, guidance, and mental health in the home. They are the ones who instill values, teach morals, and shape the character of the next generation.
“A woman is the full circle. Within her is the power to create, nurture and transform.” — Diane Mariechild.
This quote encapsulates the multifaceted role of women in nurturing future generations, instilling values and motivation, and fostering emotional intelligence, which is crucial for societal cohesion.
Women in the workforce: Shattering glass ceilings
In the workforce, women bring diversity, creativity, and innovation. They contribute unique perspectives and ideas that drive progress and success in various industries. Women have proven time and time again that they are just as capable or more than their male counterparts. From leading multinational corporations to running small businesses, women have shown that they have the skills, determination, and resilience to excel in any field.
The 20th and 21st centuries have seen a dramatic shift in women’s roles in the workforce. Women like Katherine Johnson, a mathematician whose calculations were vital for NASA’s space missions, shattered gender norms and paved the way for future generations. Her story, immortalized in the film “Hidden Figures,” is a testament to women’s indispensable contributions to science and technology.
Women are not only sustaining the present but are instrumental in directing the course of future generations. Their involvement in all fields brings diverse perspectives to the forefront, leading to more innovative and inclusive solutions.
The world is a stage for women’s voices
In the entertainment world, women have made significant strides in breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes. Actresses like Rita Moreno, Jennifer Lopez, Eva Longoria, Sofía Vergara, Penélope Cruz, Viola Davis, and Taraji P. Henson have shown that women of any race can lead, write, produce and create blockbuster films and television shows.
I have the privilege to have friends who are an example to all of us, like Renée Frigo, founder and owner of Oak Street Picture. Her production company recently released the documentary Love, Charlie, a magnificent work of love that won “Best of Fest” at the Chicago International Film Festival, the “Audience Choice Award” at the San Diego Film Festival, and two Taste Awards for “Best Feature Film” and “Best Director.”
Another example of tenacity is my friend Leslie Cohen Verkauf, who today is Head of Global Acquisitions for The Mediapro Studio. Before her position, Leslie was the Executive Producer for the film adaptation of “Brownsville Bred,” a critically acclaimed stage play and novel. Leslie achieved numerous awards for the film at various film festivals. She also held leadership positions at Warner Bros. Discovery and WarnerMedia, where they played a crucial role in content acquisitions for HBO and HBO Max.
Other magnificent creative minds in the world of cinema such as;
Kathryn Bigelow is the first woman to win the Academy Award for Best Director for her film “The Hurt Locker.” Bigelow is known for her intense, action-packed narratives.
Ava DuVernay, an influential director, writer, and producer, DuVernay made history with her film “Selma,” becoming the first black woman to be nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Director.
Greta Gerwig, known for her distinct storytelling style, received critical acclaim for directing “Lady Bird” and “Little Women” and “Barbie.” These works of art have earned her various nominations for the Academy Awards.
Sofia Coppola won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for “Lost in Translation”. She became the second woman (and first American woman) to win the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival for “The Beguiled.”
Chloé Zhao made history by becoming the first woman of Asian descent and the second woman ever to win the Academy Award for Best Director for her film “Nomadland.”
Patty Jenkins, known for directing “Wonder Woman” and its sequel, Jenkins is one of the top-grossing female directors in Hollywood.
Jane Campion, a critically acclaimed director from New Zealand, was the second woman nominated for the Academy Award for Best Director for her work on “The Piano.”
Mira Nair, an Indian-American filmmaker, Nair’s notable works include “Salaam Bombay!”, “Monsoon Wedding” and “The Namesake”.
Kasi Lemmons has directed films such as “Eve’s Bayou” and “Harriet,” a biographical movie about Harriet Tubman.
Lynne Ramsay, a Scottish director, is known for her visually compelling storytelling style in films like “We Need to Talk About Kevin” and “You Were Never Really Here”.
These women have not only created critically acclaimed and influential films but also paved the way for future generations of female directors, proving that storytelling through film is enriched by diverse voices and perspectives.
In the music world, women like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift have shattered records and redefined the music industry.
Latina women also have been making significant strides in the music industry, occupying critical roles as executives and contributing to shaping and directing musical trends. These influential women have been breaking barriers and demonstrating leadership in various aspects of the industry.
There are many outstanding women executives in the Latin music industry, such as Delia Orjuela, Rocio Guerrero, Lucia Coves, Leila Cobo, Rebeca León, Diana Rodriguez, Nina Rodríguez, Michelle Jubelirer, and my admired and personal friend, Gabi Martínez. She is a notable figure in the music industry, mainly known for her past achievements with Warner Music. She is currently the top marketing maven for Sony Music Latin-Iberia markets. Executives like Gabi Martinez at her level often play crucial roles in shaping the careers of artists, especially in a diverse and dynamic market like Latin music, ensuring that the artists under their wing receive the support and resources they need to succeed both locally and internationally.
These executives’ contributions have been instrumental in the growth and international success of the music industry, showcasing the importance of diversity in leadership. Their achievements underscore the impact of culture in shaping global musical trends and highlight the increasing influence of women in business.
These women have used their platforms to advocate for social justice, gender equality, and empowerment, inspiring a new generation of artists and activists.
Overcoming adversity: Stories of resilience and success
The stories of modern women overcoming adversity to achieve great success are sources of inspiration and empowerment. They have faced various challenges but emerged stronger, leaving indelible marks in their respective fields:
My lifelong friend Ann Caruso is a top international celebrity stylist and fashion editor known for her iconic eye for fashion, style, and elegance. Aside from managing her own successful company, Ann is a breast cancer activist and survivor who works with brands to increase Breast Cancer awareness. She works with Estee Lauder Companies on the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign, dressing as Global Ambassador for their Breast Cancer Campaign, Elizabeth Hurley, for October.
Ann has been the guest speaker at the Breast Cancer Alliance Luncheon, which raised over 1 million dollars, honored by Pink Aid in Long Island, Susan G. Komen with the “Surviving With Impact Award,” and was by Fashion Fights Cancer by The Miami Design District. Ann appeared in the Breast Cancer Research Foundation ad campaigns and was featured in the 25th Anniversary of the Pink Ribbon documentary film. She is also on the Advisory Panel for 5 Under 40 and the Style Board of Glam4Good.
Sonia Sotomayor: From Bronx to the Supreme Court
Sonia Sotomayor’s journey to becoming the first Latina Supreme Court Justice in U.S. history is a tale of incredible perseverance and dedication. Born in the Bronx to Puerto Rican parents, Sotomayor was raised in a low-income household and faced the early loss of her father. She was diagnosed with diabetes at a young age, a challenge she has managed throughout her life.
Despite these obstacles, Sotomayor excelled academically, earning scholarships to Princeton University and Yale Law School. In 2009, she was appointed to the Supreme Court.
Selena Gomez: Facing health challenges with grace
Selena Gomez, an American singer, actress, and producer of Mexican descent, has faced significant health challenges in the public eye. Diagnosed with lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease, Gomez has undergone various treatments, including a kidney transplant in 2017.
Despite her health struggles and the pressures of fame from a young age, Gomez has continued to excel in her career. She has used her platform to raise awareness about mental health and the importance of self-care, inspiring many young people around the world who face similar challenges.
Misty Copeland is a groundbreaking ballet dancer who overcame numerous obstacles to become the first African American female principal dancer at the prestigious American Ballet Theatre. Copeland grew up in a low-income family and faced discrimination and body shaming in the predominantly white world of ballet. Copeland’s talent and determination shone through, and she quickly rose through the ranks in the ballet world. She has since become a role model for young dancers of all races and has used her platform to advocate for diversity and inclusivity in the arts.
Sheryl Sandberg is a prominent business executive and author who has faced personal tragedy and professional challenges with grace and resilience. In 2015, Sandberg’s husband unexpectedly passed away, leaving her to raise their two young children as a single mother. Despite the devastating loss, Sandberg continued to lead Facebook as the Chief Operating Officer and used her platform to speak openly about grief and resilience.
She co-authored the best-selling book “Option B: Facing Adversity, Building Resilience, and Finding Joy” to help others navigate difficult times.
Sandberg’s leadership and advocacy for women in the workplace have made her a powerful voice for gender equality and empowerment.
Young activist and advocate for gun control, Emma González. As a survivor of the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting, she co-founded the gun-control advocacy group Never Again MSD.
British primatologist and anthropologist Jane Goodall. She is considered the world’s foremost expert on chimpanzees and has dedicated her life to animal welfare and conservation.
Yusra Mardini is a Syrian refugee and Olympic swimmer. She survived a dangerous sea crossing to escape war-torn Syria and competed under the Olympic Refugee Team.
Legacies of strength and inspiration
These women have overcome personal and societal challenges. They are not only trailblazers in their respective fields but also symbols of hope and resilience for future generations, demonstrating that adversity can be a powerful catalyst for success and change.
These stories underscore the diverse ways in which modern women have overcome. They each demonstrate the power of resilience, the importance of staying true to one’s beliefs, and the impact of transforming personal challenges into avenues for advocacy and positive change. Their legacies inspire and encourage others to face and overcome their hurdles.
A homage to women and mothers: The essence of our existence
“We are born of women, nurtured by women, and we owe our lives to women.”
This quote encapsulates the fundamental truth of our existence. Women are the bedrock of families, the innovators in workplaces, and the changemakers in societies. Their roles, often underestimated, are indeed the cornerstone of human progress.
As the poet Rupi Kaur once said, “What’s the greatest lesson a woman should learn? Since day one, she’s already had everything she needs within herself. It’s the world that convinced her she did not.”
Without women, our sisters, friends, and mothers, we wouldn’t be here. Let us honor and uplift women in all their diversity and strength, for they are the backbone of society and the architects of our future.
As we look towards the future, it is essential to recognize the importance of women in shaping the world we want to live in. Women hold the key to progress, peace, and prosperity. As the saying goes, “The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.” Without the contributions of women, our society would not be able to thrive and evolve.
As we acknowledge and celebrate the diverse contributions of women on this day, let us remember that their strength, wisdom, and compassion have been, and will always be, the driving force behind our collective advancement.
Without women, without our mothers, we would not be here. They are not just part of the story — they are the story. 🩷
Dedicated to my sister Caty, my mom Isabel ❤️🕊️ gone to another dimension, yet I can hear her every day, my most extraordinary support Rosi, who has sacrificed her life to help me raise my boys and many others, including her own now professional daughter, my dearest friends that challenge me, give me strength along the way and support me during. The most difficult times, and you know who you are.
Jane Morales, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Jane Morales is a Human Development, Leadership, and Assertiveness Coach, Meditation Master, Writer, and Public Speaker. She holds a BS in Marketing from Bentley University in Boston and a Master of Science in Communications from Boston University. In addition to her higher education, she is trained in The Power of Intention, Positive Affirmations, and Living your own Success. She completed a higher degree in Psychosynthesis Psychology which expands the boundaries of human potential exploring values and purpose in life.
