Forbes - Powerful Women In Their Words

Plus: These Are The Women To Watch In 2021

Morning Banter

What attributes characterize a powerful woman? Well, it turns out, quite a few.

On Tuesday, Forbes released its 2020 list of the World’s 100 Most Powerful Women, who represent the smartest and toughest female business leaders, entrepreneurs, investors and philanthropists making an impact on the world.

Angela Merkel, the first female Chancellor of Germany, took the top spot yet again, while new entrant Vice-President-elect Kamala Harris made her debut at No. 3. (President of the European Central Bank Christine Lagard slid in at No. 2.)

At its annual Power Women Summit on Wednesday, Forbes spotlighted women leaders on the frontlines of progress who are using their influence to solve society’s most pressing problems.

Here are some key standout quotes:

"I define power as using your voice and resources to change the world for others, particularly in a time of crisis." Melinda Gates, co-chair, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation

“Daring to be ambitious in a male-dominated world—that is ambitious.” Meena Harris, founder and CEO, Phenomenal

“Failure along the way is inevitable and important.” Gwynne Shotwell, president and COO, SpaceX

"Understanding that you have power and owning it ... ultimately leads to meaningful and massive change.” Mellody Hobson, president and co-CEO, Ariel Investments.

Send me an email at rumoh@forbes.com.

Quiz Yourself

Forbes ranked Merkel the most powerful woman in the world for the __  year in a row.

(A) second
(B) fifth
(C) tenth
(D) twelfth

(Answer located at the bottom of this newsletter.)

Editor's Pick

ICYMI

Melinda Gates shared her thoughts on the Covid-19 pandemic and offered solutions for improving equality during times of crisis.

The current crisis offers an opportunity to upend outdated power structures. And women are leading the charge.

Lawyer-activist Meena Harris and fashion mogul Tory Burch weighed in on how to best support underrepresented founders at the Power Women Summit.

Some 64% of survey respondents said they’d rather speak to a chatbot about stress and anxiety than their manager. Why? Robots aren’t judgmental.

Starbucks named Ariel Investments' Mellody Hobson as its board chair, making her the only Black woman to lead the board of an S&P 500 company.

Sarah McBride, the first openly transgender state senator in U.S. history, on having a seat at the table.

Up Ahead

• On December 10, join entertainment streaming service Philo for a business empowerment series targeting entrepreneurs of color.

Quiz Answer: (C) Merkel topped Forbes' list of the 100 Most Powerful Women for the tenth year in a row.