The Groundbreakers 2026: Nominations Open Now!

For decades, the “power list” has served as the professional world’s most coveted shorthand for success. However, as the global economy undergoes a major shift, the traditional recognitions of achievement are changing. 

Today, leadership is no longer defined solely by tenure or title, but rather by the audacity to build in the face of uncertainty. At Her Agenda, we recognize that modern women are moving beyond the era of seeking permission. They are designing their own frameworks, funding their own visions, and, quite literally, designing their own paths.

To honor this evolution, we are proud to announce the call for nominations for our inaugural list of The Groundbreakers. Her Agenda will celebrate 50 women who are transforming their fields and shaping the infrastructure of tomorrow.

Being recognized on a curated list is more than a fleeting moment of prestige. We are documenting shifts in those making economic and professional moves. Research shows that visibility is an important tool for women in business. 

According to the 2025 Women in the Workplace report by McKinsey & Co. and LeanIn.Org, women continue to face the “broken rung,” where for every 100 men promoted to manager, only 87 women (and only 81 women of color) make that first step up. Inclusion in a high-profile list helps repair this rung by providing the external visibility and third-party validation necessary to attract sponsorship, venture capital, and board seat invitations. By highlighting these 50 leaders, we are creating a platform for their personal brands, ensuring their impact is seen by the decision-makers who shape the global economy.

Defining The Groundbreakers

A Groundbreaker is a woman who sees a void and treats it as a blueprint. Our 2026 index will focus on five distinct pillars of impact:

• The Ambitious: Rising stars who are fueled by vision and drive. These women are early in their journey but already demonstrating bold action, focus, and promise.
• The Agenda Setters: Cultural visionaries and media influencers shaping conversations across entertainment, fashion, art, and digital platforms.
• The Achievers: Proven leaders with track records of exceptional business results, organizational impact, and measurable success in their industries.
• The Advocates: Changemakers in nonprofit leadership, caregiving, social justice, and community building – perfect for purpose-driven brand alignment.
• The Architects: System builders and infrastructure creators whose work enables others to rise. These women design the frameworks, institutions, and foundations that transform entire fields-their innovations outlast trends and shape what comes next.

We invite you to help us find the women who are challenging norms and redefining the very nature of success. Whether they are building the tech of the future or the social justice frameworks of today, we want to hear their stories.

Nominations for the inaugural Groundbreakers are now open! Applications close on July 18, 2026.