#WhatsNext2026
Celebrating Those Who Defy Limits and Inspire Progress
NCAA’s all-time scoring leader, Caitlin Clark revolutionized women’s basketball. Her 2024 WNBA impact elevates the sport’s global reach.
23 Grand Slam titles, Serena Williams reshaped tennis history. Her equality advocacy empowers women and minorities worldwide.
Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation works to build a kinder, braver world by supporting the wellness of young people.
37 Olympic and World medals, Simone Biles revolutionized gymnastics. Her mental health advocacy redefines strength and inspires millions.
Diane von Furstenberg is a fashion designer and creator of The DVF Awards, which provide exposure and resources to women working on behalf of other women.
Founder of Pronounced and professor of 20 years, Mary Amato has been widely recognized as a leading innovator in education.
Creator of MuslimGirl.com and Muslim Women’s Day,
Amani Al‑Khatahtbeh is empowering women to share their diverse stories — and ultimately to change the media’s narrative around Muslim
women everywhere.
Known best for her work on Selma and When They See Us, director Ava DuVernay is leading conversations about race and equality in America.
2024 WNBA MVP and Olympic gold medalist, A’ja Wilson leads basketball’s new era. Her leadership amplifies women’s sports visibility.
With 28 Olympic medals, Michael Phelps set an unmatched standard. His wellness foundation advances global mental health efforts.
Award-winning actor, producer, and director Elizabeth Banks consistently weaves feminist ideas into her work. Her directorial film debut set an opening-weekend record.
The NBA’s all-time leading scorer, LeBron James rules basketball. His I PROMISE School uplifts communities and drives change.
In 2019, Lilly Singh became the first LGBTQ woman in the U.S. to host a network late-night talk show in over 30 years.
Marie Kondo sparked a tidying revolution with her best-selling books and an internationally acclaimed Netflix series.
Director and writer of Lady Bird and Little Women, Greta Gerwig is expanding the stories
Hollywood tells.
On-the-rise lawyer and social activist, Julia Rust has fiercely created new opportunities for the state of Virginia.
2023 World 100m champion, Sha’Carri Richardson blazed to Olympic silver in 2024. Her bold authenticity galvanizes young athletes.
Actor, producer, and director of the critically acclaimed film Booksmart, Olivia Wilde is a prominent voice for gender equality in the film industry.
With five 2024 Olympic swimming golds, Caeleb Dressel breaks records. His resilience inspires swimmers to chase greatness.
The first editor-in-chief of Vogue Russia, Aliona Doletskaya launched Andy Warhol’s Interview magazine in Russia and Germany, and she continues to champion new voices in creativity.
Broke the 400m hurdles world record in 2024, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone dominates track. Her excellence pushes athletic boundaries worldwide.
