1. Sheikha Moza bint Nasser
Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, the Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, stands as a beacon of philanthropy and social advocacy. Her commitment to education and social development has reshaped the landscape not only in Qatar but also globally. In 2012, she founded the Education Above All Foundation (EAA), dedicated to delivering quality education to children in regions affected by poverty, conflict, and disaster. Through EAA’s Educate a Child program, commitments have been made to educate 10 million marginalized children worldwide. Her initiatives such as Protect Education in Insecurity and Conflict (PEIC) promote and protect the right to education in crisis-affected areas.
Sheikha Moza’s advocacy extends to autism awareness, where she has emphasized early intervention and support services for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Her efforts have significantly reduced stigma and improved the lives of individuals with autism in Qatar and beyond. Moreover, her role as an Advocate for the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly focusing on marginalized children and youth, underscores her dedication to global social progress.
2. Melinda French Gates
Melinda French Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is a global force in philanthropy. Her foundation has committed billions to global health, development, and education. Gates has been a vocal advocate for women’s and girls’ empowerment, emphasizing the importance of family planning, maternal health, and gender equality. Her initiative, Pivotal Ventures, specifically focuses on accelerating social progress in the United States, tackling issues from gender parity in tech to paid family leave. Her work has helped millions of women gain access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
3. Oprah Winfrey
Oprah Winfrey, media mogul and philanthropist, has utilized her immense influence to drive social change. Through the Oprah Winfrey Foundation and the Oprah Winfrey Operating Foundation, she has supported numerous educational initiatives, including the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa. Her philanthropy extends to health, with significant contributions to cancer research, HIV/AIDS awareness and more. Winfrey’s impact is felt globally, particularly in empowering young girls and women through education and leadership training.
4. Laurene Powell Jobs
Laurene Powell Jobs, founder of the Emerson Collective, focuses her philanthropy on education, immigration reform and environmental conservation. The Emerson Collective works to improve the education system, supporting teachers and providing resources to underserved communities. Powell Jobs has also been involved in initiatives to protect and preserve the environment, addressing climate change and promoting sustainable practices. Her investment in social justice projects, including those that support immigrants and advocate for policy reform, underscores her commitment to creating a more equitable society.
5. Mackenzie Scott
MacKenzie Scott, novelist and philanthropist, has become one of the most influential figures in global philanthropy. Following her divorce from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Scott has donated billions to a wide array of causes, emphasizing immediate and substantial support to organizations that promote equity and address systemic inequalities. Her approach to philanthropy is notable for its speed and scale, with significant contributions to racial equity, LGBTQ+ rights, public health, and education. Scott’s giving is marked by her commitment to supporting underfunded and high-impact initiatives, making a profound difference in the lives of millions.