History often focuses on kings, presidents, and generals, but the world we live in today has also been deeply shaped by women who showed courage, compassion, intelligence and conviction. Many of them didn’t begin with power – they began with a decision to act.
Influential Women Who Have Changed the World
Harriet Tubman (1822-1913)
Born into slavery in the United States, Harriet Tubman escaped and then repeatedly risked her life to rescue others using the Underground Railroad. She later worked as a nurse and spy during the Civil War. Her life demonstrated that one person’s courage can break systems of injustice and bring freedom to many.
Florence Nightingale (1820-1910)
Before Florence Nightingale, hospitals were unsafe and unsanitary. During the Crimean War she transformed patient care by introducing hygiene, handwashing, and compassionate treatment. Modern nursing – and even hospital cleanliness – exists largely because of her.
Marie Curie (1867-1934)
A scientist who discovered radioactivity and pioneered research used in cancer treatment. She became the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and remains the only person to win Nobel Prizes in two scientific fields. Her persistence in a male-dominated field opened doors for women in science around the world.
Rosa Parks (1913-2005)
When Rosa Parks refused to give up her bus seat, she wasn’t trying to start a movement – but her quiet bravery ignited the Civil Rights Movement. Her action reminds us that influence often begins with a simple stand for what is right.
Malala Yousafzai (1997-Present)
After speaking up for girls’ education in Pakistan, Malala survived an assassination attempt at just 15 years old. Instead of stepping back, she became a global advocate for education and the youngest Nobel Peace Prize winner in history. She shows that age does not limit impact.
These women changed laws, science, medicine and human rights – but each started with a willingness to act even when afraid.
Women in the Bible
The Bible consistently shows that God works through women in powerful and meaningful ways. They were leaders, prophets, disciples, teachers, and examples of faith.
Esther – Courage (Book of Esther)
Esther became queen of Persia but hid her Jewish identity. When her people faced destruction, she risked her life to approach the king without permission – something that could have meant death. Because of her bravery, a nation was saved.
Her story teaches that influence is often connected to responsibility: “Perhaps you have come to your royal position for such a time as this.” (Esther 4:14)
Deborah – Leadership (Judges 4-5)
Deborah was a judge, prophet, and national leader of Israel – in a time when women rarely held authority. She led Israel into victory and brought peace to the land. Deborah shows that God’s calling is not limited by gender, but by willingness and obedience.
Ruth – Faithfulness (Book of Ruth)
After losing her husband, Ruth chose to stay with her mother-in-law Naomi instead of returning home. Her loyalty led her to a new life in Israel, where she became the great-grandmother of King David and part of the lineage of Jesus. Ruth reminds us that quiet faithfulness can shape generations.
Mary, the Mother of Jesus – Surrender (Luke 1-2)
Mary was likely a teenager when she was chosen to carry the Son of God. Accepting this calling would bring confusion, risk, and hardship, yet she responded: “I am the Lord’s servant.” Her willingness changed history forever.
Mary of Bethany – Devotion (Luke 10:38-42; John 12:1-8)
While others were busy serving, Mary sat at Jesus’ feet to learn. Later she anointed Jesus with expensive perfume in an act of worship. Jesus defended her and said her story would be remembered wherever the gospel is preached. She shows that intimacy with God is never wasted.
The Samaritan Woman – Evangelism (John 4)
After encountering Jesus at the well, she ran back to her town and told everyone about Him. Her testimony led many people to believe. She became one of the first evangelists – simply by sharing her story.
The Bible doesn’t present women as background characters; it presents them as participants in God’s plan.
Influential Women Today
Influence isn’t just history – it’s happening right now. Across the world women are shaping culture, justice, faith and compassion in everyday life.
Christine Caine
An Australian Christian speaker and activist who founded the A21 Campaign, an organization combating human trafficking worldwide. Her work has helped rescue and restore victims and raise global awareness about modern slavery.
Grace Tame
Former Australian of the Year and survivor advocate who campaigns against child sexual abuse and for survivor protection laws. Her advocacy helped drive legislative reform and gave many survivors the confidence to speak publicly about their experiences. She has influenced national conversations around safety, justice and accountability.
Turia Pitt
After suffering life-threatening burns in an ultramarathon accident, Turia Pitt rebuilt her life through rehabilitation, resilience and determination. She became an author, speaker and charity fundraiser, raising millions for Interplast (an organisation providing reconstructive surgery to people in developing countries). Her story encourages perseverance, hope and redefining identity after trauma.
Katie Davis Majors
Moved to Uganda as a teenager and founded a ministry caring for vulnerable children. She later adopted multiple daughters and now feeds and educates hundreds of children daily. Her life demonstrates radical compassion lived out practically.
Malala Yousafzai
Now a university graduate and international advocate, she continues fighting for education access for girls globally, influencing policy and awareness worldwide.
Local and Everyday Women
Not all influential women are famous. Teachers shaping students, mothers raising children, youth leaders mentoring teenagers, social workers caring for families, and volunteers serving communities influence the world daily. History often records public leaders, but God also values unseen faithfulness.
From biblical times to modern society, women have consistently shaped the world through courage, faith, service and perseverance. Influence is not determined by platform, age, or status — but by obedience, compassion and willingness.
The same qualities seen in Esther, Ruth and Mary appear in women throughout history and continue today. The message is clear: God has always used women, and He still does.
Influence doesn’t start when someone becomes famous.
It starts when someone chooses to say yes.