With Women’s History Month having just passed, it’s important to highlight the pioneering women not just leading but shaping their fields. From hospitality, to art, to philanthropy and fashion, incredible women consistently endeavour to make things better for their communities – and here’s an extensive list of them. 

In the typically male dominated hospitality and food sector, women continue to raise the bar by prioritising consumer experience. Maribel Lieberman, CEO and founder of MarieBelle New York, has built a successful confectionery brand which brings a touch of luxury to chocolate with artful, stylish designs that draw on her fashion background. Antonella Bertello’s chic vision for the Hamptons inn The Baker House 1650 has enabled it to become one of the most distinctive, award-winning properties in the area. 

As well as carving out space for themselves, successful women in the fashion and arts sphere have actively sought to create opportunities for others. One Art Space gallery co-owners MaryAnn Giella McCulloh and Mei Fung are known for their annual Women’s History Month exhibition – now in its tenth year – which embodies their aim of spotlighting emerging artists. Likewise, Pamela S. Privette has sought to empower independent designers through hiTechMODA: a runway production company which provides an international platform for underrepresented designers.

This community-focused approach is exemplified by the women creating real change in the world of philanthropy. Ana L. Oliveira recently stepped down from over 20 years as the CEO and President of The New York Women’s Foundation, during which she helped provide a million essential funds to over 500 women and gender-expansive foundations. Jean Shafiroff has dedicated herself to humanitarianism and fundraising, proving that philanthropy is as much about effort as it is about giving, which her book Successful Philanthropy and advocacy for the sector exemplifies.  

The entrepreneurship and retail space is another sector in which women’s contributions have been integral. CEO and founder Marina Cocher recently celebrated 20 years of her luxury lifestyle brand Marina St Barth and is an exemplar of how success can be achieved in the face of adversity. Consuelo Vanderbilt Costin continues to build upon legacy with House of Vanderbilt and the innovative networking platform SohoMuse which connects top industry creatives.

Across every industry, the impact of women’s wit, drive and compassion cannot be understated. That’s why it’s so important to celebrate these pioneers this Women’s History Month – and beyond.