Trailblazers and record breakers: Celebrating women who changed history

By Josephine Boye
Published
madam cj walker and junko tabei split image

Not only is it Women’s History Month, but today also marks International Women’s Day, a global initiative celebrating the incredible achievements of women everywhere. 

This is a time to reflect and praise the remarkable women who, against all odds, broke barriers and left an indelible mark on history. 

Join us as we celebrate some of the extraordinary women who not only shattered glass ceilings but also set world records.

First female self-made millionaire - Madam C.J. Walker

Madam C.J. Walker was a pioneer in the beauty industry and holds the record for being the first self-made millionairess. 

Born in 1867, she overcame racial and gender biases to build a successful haircare empire. 

Walker's legacy is not only a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit but also to her commitment to empowering women of colour!

Madam Walker portrait

First female to fly solo across the Atlantic - Amelia Earhart

Amelia Earhart, the iconic aviator, marked her name in history as the first female to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. 

In 1932, she navigated her plane, The Friendship, from Newfoundland to Ireland, breaking barriers and inspiring generations of women to pursue careers in aviation. 

Her daring feat continues to be a symbol of courage and determination. Amelia also holds the record for the first flight from Hawaii to North America. The flight lasted around 18 hours and covered over 2,400 miles!

Youngest Nobel Peace Prize winner - Malala Yousafzai

Malala Yousafzai, the youngest Nobel Peace Prize winner, became a global advocate for girls' education after surviving an assassination attempt. 

Born in Pakistan in 1997, Malala's unwavering commitment to education for all earned her the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014 at the age of 17, securing her place in the record books. 

First African-American FLOTUS - Michelle Obama

Michelle Obama, the first African-American First Lady of the United States, made history with her grace, intelligence, and dedication to social causes. 

From 2009 to 2017, she worked tirelessly to promote education, health, and military family support while her husband Barack was the President of the United States. 

Michelle's impact goes beyond being the FLOTUS; she stands as a symbol of empowerment and inclusivity.

First woman to ever summit Mount Everest - Junko Tabei 

Junko Tabei, a Japanese mountaineer, cemented her name in history as the first woman to summit Mount Everest, the world's highest mountain back in 1975. 

Her historic ascent paved the way for women in mountaineering. Junko's legacy extends beyond Everest, as she went on to become the first woman to complete the Seven Summits, conquering the highest peak on each continent. 

Her achievements opened doors for countless women, encouraging them to explore their own heights and break through perceived limitations.

junko tabei with her certificate

As we celebrate International Women's Day and Women's History Month, let us honour these remarkable women who changed history and have shattered ceilings, defied expectations, and paved the way for future generations.

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