Not every achievement by women makes it into textbooks or headlines — but they’re there, shaping the future, breaking barriers, and changing the course of history. This article is a tribute to women who, in different eras and contexts, paved the way for all of us.

1. The Right to Vote:

When Women's Voices Gained Political Power

In Brazil, women won the right to vote in 1932, after an intense struggle led by Bertha Lutz. It marked a turning point for political inclusion and the beginning of a broader social transformation.

2. Access to Education: From Exclusion to Excellence

For centuries, education was a male privilege. Today, women are the majority in Brazilian universities and hold prominent positions in fields once dominated by men — like engineering, medicine, and technology.

3. Participation in Science:

From Invisibility to Recognition

From Marie Curie to Jaqueline Goes, women have made major contributions to science, even while facing underrepresentation and historical barriers.

4. The Maria da Penha Law:

A Landmark Against Violence

Passed in 2006, this law became a symbol of legal protection for women who are victims of domestic violence, strengthening support networks and public policy.

5. Presence in Sports:

From Spectators to Protagonists

From Maria Lenk to today’s Olympic medalists, women’s participation in sports has grown through resilience, representation, and triumph.

6. Leadership in the Workforce

Despite persistent wage inequality, women are increasingly taking leadership roles, launching businesses, and driving innovation across industries.

7. Advances in Women’s Health

Public policies supporting prenatal care, breastfeeding, breast cancer prevention, and menstrual health have been fundamental achievements for women’s well-being.

8. #MeToo and the Fight Against Harassment

Born on social media, the movement became global. In Brazil, initiatives like "If You Mess with One, You Mess with All" have echoed across institutions.

9. Political Representation

Leaders like Angela Merkel, Jacinda Ardern, Erika Hilton, and Marina Silva prove that politics can also have a more inclusive and human perspective.

10. Ownership of Their Bodies and Narratives

The freedom to express themselves through fashion, media, social networks, and art is a right still being built — and every woman who speaks out expands that space.

11. "Women in Science" Award (Brazil, 2025)

Researchers like Mariana Emerenciano, Patrícia Endo, and Marina Alves were honored for innovative contributions in science and technology.

12. Chamber-Amélia Império Hamburger Award (2024)

Recognition of women in cutting-edge scientific fields, like Ethel Maciel (epidemiology) and Lair Guerra (a pioneer in HIV/AIDS research).

13. Fernanda Torres and Her Oscar Legacy

In 2025, Fernanda Torres made history by becoming the second Brazilian actress ever nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress, for her powerful performance in the film I'm Still Here, which also won Best International Feature Film. The achievement moved the nation and highlighted the strength of female talent in Brazilian cinema.

What makes this moment even more meaningful is that it continues the legacy of her mother, Fernanda Montenegro, who was the first Brazilian nominated in the same category back in 1999 for Central Station.

Two generations, two extraordinary actresses — and a path of international recognition that goes far beyond awards: it represents the power of Brazilian women in art, culture, and the world.

14. Exponential Women (2025)

Esther Dweck and Ana Estela Haddad led impactful innovations in public policy and sustainable development at the national level.

15. Rebeca Andrade: Historic Gold in Paris (2024)

Rebeca became Brazil’s most decorated Olympic athlete, making history in artistic gymnastics with skill, grace, and representation.

16. Beatriz Souza:

First Female Olympic Judo Champion for Brazil

Beatriz won gold in the +78kg category — a groundbreaking achievement that inspires young athletes across Brazil and beyond.

17. Marta: Champion in the NWSL at Age 38

The queen of football proved that talent and longevity go hand in hand by leading Orlando Pride to victory in the American league.

18. Kerolin Nicoli: International Breakout Star

The Brazilian forward was signed by Manchester City after being named MVP of the NWSL — a sign of growing appreciation for women’s football.

19. Sônia Guajajara:

Indigenous Voice at the Heart of Power

As Brazil’s Minister of Indigenous Peoples, Sônia spearheaded progress in land demarcation, indigenous health, and the fight against the time limit law.

20. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah:

First Female President of Namibia

In 2025, Netumbo was elected as Namibia’s first female president, breaking new ground for women in African politics.

Why Does This Matter?

These achievements aren’t just chapters in history — they’re the foundation of the present. Knowing them is essential to valuing collective struggles, preventing setbacks, and reinforcing women’s leadership in all areas of life.