In a world where the challenges of poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation seem ever-present, there are individuals who rise above, dedicating their lives to creating meaningful change. These are the leaders of non-profit organizations—visionaries who drive initiatives that make a significant global impact. From advocating for human rights and promoting educational equity to advancing environmental sustainability and public health, these leaders inspire and mobilize communities around the world.
This blog celebrates the Top 100 Non-Profit Leaders Making a Global Impact, highlighting their remarkable achievements and the profound difference they make in society. Each of these leaders brings a unique vision and unwavering commitment to their cause, showcasing the power of leadership and the potential for positive change.
For more stories of inspiring non-profit leaders and the incredible work they do, visit NonProfits.Club. Dedicated to highlighting the efforts of non-profits worldwide, NonProfits.Club provides insightful articles, resources, and updates that celebrate the impact of these organizations. By connecting readers with inspiring stories and actionable information, NonProfits.Club supports the non-profit sector and encourages community engagement. Dive into the world of non-profit leadership and discover how these leaders are shaping a better future for all.
1. Malala Yousafzai – Malala Fund
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Background: Malala Yousafzai is a Pakistani education activist who, at the age of 15, survived an assassination attempt by the Taliban.
Achievements: Co-founded the Malala Fund to advocate for girls’ education globally. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014, becoming the youngest laureate. Her advocacy has brought international attention to the importance of education for girls.
2. Bryan Stevenson – Equal Justice Initiative
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Background: Bryan Stevenson is a lawyer and social justice activist from the United States.
Achievements: Founded the Equal Justice Initiative, which works to end mass incarceration and racial injustice. Successfully argued several cases before the U.S. Supreme Court and authored the bestselling book “Just Mercy.”
3. Dr. Jane Goodall – The Jane Goodall Institute
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Background: Dr. Jane Goodall is a British primatologist and anthropologist renowned for her study of chimpanzees.
Achievements: Founded the Jane Goodall Institute, which supports wildlife research, education, and conservation. Her pioneering work with chimpanzees has transformed our understanding of primate behavior.
4. Dr. Paul Farmer – Partners In Health
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Background: Dr. Paul Farmer is an American medical anthropologist and physician.
Achievements: Co-founded Partners In Health to provide healthcare to the world’s poorest communities. His work integrates medical care with social support, addressing the root causes of illness and improving healthcare delivery globally.
5. Kailash Satyarthi – Kailash Satyarthi Children’s Foundation
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Background: Kailash Satyarthi is an Indian child rights activist.
Achievements: Founded the Kailash Satyarthi Children’s Foundation, rescued tens of thousands of children from child labor and trafficking. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014 for his efforts in fighting child labor.
6. Opal Tometi – Black Lives Matter Global Network
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Background: Opal Tometi is a Nigerian-American human rights activist.
Achievements: Co-founded the Black Lives Matter movement, which advocates for social justice and combats racial inequality. Her work has sparked global conversations about racial justice and influenced policy changes.
7. Scott Harrison – charity: water
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Background: Scott Harrison is a former nightclub promoter turned humanitarian.
Achievements: Founded charity: water to provide clean and safe drinking water to developing countries. Implemented a 100% donation model, ensuring all public donations fund water projects.
8. Shiza Shahid – Malala Fund and Now Ventures
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Background: Shiza Shahid is a Pakistani social entrepreneur.
Achievements: Co-founded the Malala Fund and later launched Now Ventures, supporting mission-driven startups. Her work focuses on empowering women and girls through education and entrepreneurship.
9. Geoffrey Canada – Harlem Children’s Zone
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Background: Geoffrey Canada is an American educator and social activist.
Achievements: President of the Harlem Children’s Zone, which provides comprehensive support from early childhood through college. His innovative community development model has significantly improved outcomes for children in Harlem.
10. Maggie Doyne – BlinkNow Foundation
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Background: Maggie Doyne is an American philanthropist and humanitarian.
Achievements: Founded the BlinkNow Foundation and the Kopila Valley Children’s Home and School in Nepal. Her work provides a loving home and quality education for orphaned and at-risk children.
11. Rebecca van Bergen – Nest
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Background: Rebecca van Bergen is an American social entrepreneur.
Achievements: Founded Nest to support artisans and handworkers globally. Nest provides training, advocacy, and market access, empowering artisans to achieve fair wages and sustainable livelihoods.
12. Tererai Trent – Tererai Trent International
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Background: Tererai Trent is a Zimbabwean-American author and educator.
Achievements: Founded Tererai Trent International to promote literacy and education in rural Zimbabwe. Built schools and provided educational resources, transforming the lives of many children.
13. Greg Mortenson – Central Asia Institute
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Background: Greg Mortenson is an American humanitarian and author.
Achievements: Co-founded the Central Asia Institute, building schools in remote regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan. His work has provided education to thousands of children, particularly girls.
14. Erin Ganju – Room to Read
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Background: Erin Ganju is an American social entrepreneur.
Achievements: Co-founded Room to Read, which promotes literacy and gender equality in education in low-income countries. Her leadership has helped millions of children gain access to quality education.
15. Jeroo Billimoria – Child and Youth Finance International
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Background: Jeroo Billimoria is an Indian social entrepreneur.
Achievements: Founded CYFI to empower children and youth with financial literacy and entrepreneurship skills. Her initiatives have helped young people develop essential life skills and pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions.
16. Molly Melching – Tostan
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Background: Molly Melching is an American social entrepreneur.
Achievements: Founded Tostan to promote community-led development in Africa. Her holistic approach has led to significant social changes, including the reduction of female genital cutting and child marriage.
17. Alec Loorz – Kids vs. Global Warming (now iMatter)
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Background: Alec Loorz is an American environmental activist.
Achievements: Founded Kids vs. Global Warming at the age of 12 to inspire youth to address climate change. Now known as iMatter, the organization empowers youth to advocate for environmental policies and sustainable practices.
18. Eva Longoria – Eva Longoria Foundation
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Background: Eva Longoria is an American actress and activist.
Achievements: Founded the Eva Longoria Foundation to support Latinas through education and entrepreneurship. Her work empowers young women to access opportunities and break the cycle of poverty.
19. Nancy Lublin – Crisis Text Line
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Background: Nancy Lublin is an American entrepreneur and activist.
Achievements: Founded Crisis Text Line, providing free, 24/7 text support for people in crisis. Her innovative use of technology has revolutionized mental health support.
20. Susan Burton – A New Way of Life Reentry Project
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Background: Susan Burton is an American activist and advocate for formerly incarcerated women.
Achievements: Founded A New Way of Life Reentry Project to provide housing and support services for formerly incarcerated women. Her work has helped many women reintegrate into society and rebuild their lives.
21. Leymah Gbowee – Gbowee Peace Foundation Africa
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Background: Leymah Gbowee is a Liberian peace activist.
Achievements: Led a non-violent movement that helped end Liberia’s civil war. Founded the Gbowee Peace Foundation Africa to empower women and youth, earning her the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011.
22. Christy Turlington Burns – Every Mother Counts
Background: Christy Turlington Burns is an American model and maternal health advocate.
Achievements: Founded Every Mother Counts to improve maternal health globally. Her work focuses on providing access to essential maternity care and raising awareness about maternal mortality.
23. Jacqueline Novogratz – Acumen
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Background: Jacqueline Novogratz is an American impact investor.
Achievements: Founded Acumen, a non-profit global venture fund that uses entrepreneurial approaches to solve problems of poverty. Her work has supported social enterprises that deliver critical goods and services to low-income individuals.
24. Reshma Saujani – Girls Who Code
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Background: Reshma Saujani is an American lawyer and politician.
Achievements: Founded Girls Who Code to close the gender gap in technology. Her organization has inspired and educated thousands of girls to pursue careers in technology and engineering.
25. Salman Khan – Khan Academy
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Background: Salman Khan is an American educator and entrepreneur.
Achievements: Founded Khan Academy, an online educational platform that offers free courses in various subjects. His innovative approach to education has democratized learning and reached millions of students worldwide.
26. Premal Shah – Kiva
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Background: Premal Shah is an American social entrepreneur.
Achievements: Co-founded Kiva, a micro-lending platform that connects people willing to lend money with entrepreneurs in developing countries. His work has provided financial support to millions of small businesses globally.
27. Cheryl Dorsey – Echoing Green
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Background: Cheryl Dorsey is an American social entrepreneur and physician.
Achievements: President of Echoing Green, which provides fellowships and support for emerging social entrepreneurs. Her leadership has helped launch and scale numerous impactful organizations.
28. Jennifer Pahlka – Code for America
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Background: Jennifer Pahlka is an American government technologist and activist.
Achievements: Founded Code for America to bring tech innovation to government. Her work bridges the gap between technology and public service, improving the efficiency and transparency of government operations.
29. Diana Aviv – Feeding America
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Background: Diana Aviv is an American non-profit executive.
Achievements: Led Feeding America, the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization. Her work has significantly increased the organization’s capacity to provide food assistance to those in need.
30. Tony Elumelu – Tony Elumelu Foundation
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Background: Tony Elumelu is a Nigerian economist and philanthropist.
Achievements: Founded the Tony Elumelu Foundation to empower African entrepreneurs. His foundation provides training, mentorship, and funding to entrepreneurs across the continent, fostering economic growth and development.
31. Wendy Kopp – Teach For America
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Background: Wendy Kopp is an American educator and entrepreneur.
Achievements: Founded Teach For America to address educational inequality by recruiting and training recent college graduates to teach in low-income communities. Her organization has placed thousands of teachers in underserved schools.
32. Bill Drayton – Ashoka
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Background: Bill Drayton is an American social entrepreneur.
Achievements: Founded Ashoka, the world’s largest network of social entrepreneurs. His organization supports social innovators who address critical societal issues, fostering a global network of changemakers.
33. Maria Eitel – Nike Foundation
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Background: Maria Eitel is an American philanthropist and non-profit executive.
Achievements: Founded the Nike Foundation, which focuses on empowering adolescent girls in developing countries. Her work has driven significant investment in girls’ education and empowerment programs.
34. Ellen Moir – New Teacher Center
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Background: Ellen Moir is an American educator.
Achievements: Founded the New Teacher Center to improve teacher effectiveness. Her organization provides mentoring and professional development for new teachers, enhancing educational outcomes for students.
35. Jonathan Reckford – Habitat for Humanity
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Background: Jonathan Reckford is an American non-profit executive.
Achievements: CEO of Habitat for Humanity, an organization that builds affordable housing for families in need. Under his leadership, Habitat has expanded its global impact, providing housing solutions to millions.
36. Darren Walker – Ford Foundation
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Background: Darren Walker is an American non-profit executive.
Achievements: President of the Ford Foundation, one of the largest philanthropic organizations in the world. His leadership has focused on social justice, equity, and inclusion, driving significant impact through strategic grantmaking.
37. Jacqueline Fuller – Google.org
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Background: Jacqueline Fuller is an American philanthropist and non-profit executive.
Achievements: President of Google.org, the philanthropic arm of Google. She oversees the company’s social impact initiatives, including grants, advocacy, and employee engagement programs.
38. Jim Yong Kim – Partners In Health
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Background: Jim Yong Kim is an American physician and anthropologist.
Achievements: Co-founded Partners In Health and served as President of the World Bank. His work has focused on improving global health and economic development, particularly in low-income countries.
39. Laurie Tisch – Laurie M. Tisch Illumination Fund
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Background: Laurie Tisch is an American philanthropist.
Achievements: Founded the Laurie M. Tisch Illumination Fund, which supports innovative solutions to pressing social issues. Her foundation has invested in health, education, and the arts, improving community well-being.
40. Ruth Messinger – American Jewish World Service
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Background: Ruth Messinger is an American social activist and politician.
Achievements: Led American Jewish World Service, which supports human rights and development efforts in marginalized communities worldwide. Her leadership has driven significant impact in areas such as health, education, and economic development.
41. Paul Polman – The B Team
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Background: Paul Polman is a Dutch businessman and philanthropist.
Achievements: Co-founded The B Team, which promotes responsible business practices. His leadership in corporate sustainability has influenced companies globally to adopt more ethical and sustainable practices.
42. Peter Diamandis – XPRIZE Foundation
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Background: Peter Diamandis is an American engineer, physician, and entrepreneur.
Achievements: Founded the XPRIZE Foundation, which designs and manages public competitions to encourage technological development for the benefit of humanity. His innovative approach has spurred breakthroughs in various fields.
43. Michael J. Fox – The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research
Background: Michael J. Fox is a Canadian-American actor and advocate.
Achievements: Founded The Michael J. Fox Foundation to fund research for Parkinson’s disease. His organization has become the largest non-profit funder of Parkinson’s research in the world.
44. Melinda Gates – Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
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Background: Melinda Gates is an American philanthropist and co-founder of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Achievements: Her foundation focuses on global health, education, and poverty alleviation. Melinda’s leadership has driven significant investments in vaccine development, education initiatives, and women’s empowerment.
45. Jeff Skoll – Skoll Foundation
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Background: Jeff Skoll is a Canadian engineer, film producer, and philanthropist.
Achievements: Founded the Skoll Foundation to support social entrepreneurs who drive large-scale change. His foundation has invested in innovative solutions to global challenges, fostering a network of social innovators.
46. Richard Branson – Virgin Unite
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Background: Richard Branson is a British entrepreneur and philanthropist.
Achievements: Founded Virgin Unite, the non-profit foundation of the Virgin Group. His organization focuses on entrepreneurial solutions to social and environmental issues, leveraging business resources for positive change.
47. Muhammad Yunus – Grameen Bank
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Background: Muhammad Yunus is a Bangladeshi social entrepreneur and economist.
Achievements: Founded Grameen Bank, which pioneered the concept of microfinance. His work has provided financial services to millions of poor people, particularly women, helping them to start small businesses and escape poverty.
48. Oprah Winfrey – Oprah Winfrey Foundation
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Background: Oprah Winfrey is an American media executive, actress, and philanthropist.
Achievements: Founded the Oprah Winfrey Foundation, which supports education and empowerment initiatives. Her philanthropic efforts have funded scholarships, schools, and community programs worldwide.
49. Angelina Jolie – Jolie-Pitt Foundation
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Background: Angelina Jolie is an American actress and humanitarian.
Achievements: Co-founded the Jolie-Pitt Foundation, which supports humanitarian causes around the world. Her advocacy work includes refugee rights, environmental conservation, and education for children in conflict zones.
50. Ted Turner – United Nations Foundation
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Background: Ted Turner is an American media mogul and philanthropist.
Achievements: Founded the United Nations Foundation to support the UN’s global initiatives. His $1 billion donation has funded programs in health, environment, and peacekeeping, driving significant impact worldwide.
51. Bono – ONE Campaign
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Background: Bono is an Irish singer-songwriter and activist.
Achievements: Co-founded the ONE Campaign, which advocates for poverty alleviation and disease prevention in Africa. His leadership has mobilized millions of people to support global health and development efforts.
52. Sean Penn – CORE (Community Organized Relief Effort)
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Background: Sean Penn is an American actor and humanitarian.
Achievements: Founded CORE to provide disaster relief and community support. His organization has been instrumental in responding to natural disasters, including the Haiti earthquake and the COVID-19 pandemic.
53. Alicia Garza – Black Futures Lab
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Background: Alicia Garza is an American civil rights activist and writer.
Achievements: Co-founded Black Futures Lab, which works to build Black political power and change the way power operates locally, statewide, and nationally. Her leadership in the Black Lives Matter movement has driven significant social and policy changes.
54. Maria Teresa Kumar – Voto Latino
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Background: Maria Teresa Kumar is a Colombian-American political activist.
Achievements: Co-founded Voto Latino to empower Latino voters and increase their political participation. Her organization has registered hundreds of thousands of Latino voters, influencing elections and policy.
55. Ai-jen Poo – National Domestic Workers Alliance
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Background: Ai-jen Poo is an American labor activist.
Achievements: Director of the National Domestic Workers Alliance, which advocates for the rights of domestic workers. Her work has led to significant policy changes and improved working conditions for millions of domestic workers.
56. Darren Criss – The Trevor Project
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Background: Darren Criss is an American actor and singer.
Achievements: Active supporter of The Trevor Project, which provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ youth. His advocacy has raised awareness and funds for mental health support for LGBTQ individuals.
57. Aria Finger – DoSomething.org
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Background: Aria Finger is an American social entrepreneur.
Achievements: CEO of DoSomething.org, which mobilizes young people to take action on social issues. Her leadership has engaged millions of young people in volunteerism and activism.
58. David Miliband – International Rescue Committee
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Background: David Miliband is a British politician and humanitarian.
Achievements: President and CEO of the International Rescue Committee, which provides emergency relief and development support to vulnerable communities. His work has improved the lives of millions affected by conflict and disaster.
59. Dan Pallotta – Pallotta TeamWorks
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Background: Dan Pallotta is an American entrepreneur and author.
Achievements: Founded Pallotta TeamWorks, which revolutionized charity fundraising with events like the AIDS Rides and Breast Cancer 3-Days. His advocacy for non-profit sector reform has sparked a global conversation about how charities operate and raise funds.
60. Howard Buffett – Howard G. Buffett Foundation
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![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Howard-Buffett-1024x843.jpg)
Background: Howard Buffett is an American philanthropist and farmer.
Achievements: Founded the Howard G. Buffett Foundation to improve food security and combat poverty. His foundation supports sustainable agriculture and conflict resolution initiatives in developing countries.
61. Charles Best – DonorsChoose.org
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Charles-Best.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Charles-Best.jpg)
Background: Charles Best is an American educator and entrepreneur.
Achievements: Founded DonorsChoose.org, a crowdfunding platform for public school teachers. His organization has funded over 1.8 million classroom projects, providing resources for students across the United States.
62. Hugh Evans – Global Citizen
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![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Hugh-Evans.jpg)
Background: Hugh Evans is an Australian humanitarian and activist.
Achievements: Co-founded Global Citizen, which mobilizes people to take action on global issues like poverty, health, and education. His innovative use of media and events has driven significant policy changes and funding commitments.
63. Bill McKibben – 350.org
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Bill-McKibben.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Bill-McKibben.jpg)
Background: Bill McKibben is an American environmentalist and author.
Achievements: Founded 350.org, a global grassroots movement to combat climate change. His leadership has inspired millions to take action on environmental issues and influenced climate policy worldwide.
64. Faye Wattleton – Center for the Advancement of Women
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![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Faye-Wattleton.jpg)
Background: Faye Wattleton is an American reproductive rights advocate.
Achievements: Founded the Center for the Advancement of Women to promote women’s rights and health. Her advocacy has driven significant progress in reproductive health policies and women’s empowerment.
65. Patricia Espinosa – United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
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Background: Patricia Espinosa is a Mexican diplomat and climate advocate.
Achievements: Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Her leadership has been instrumental in advancing global climate agreements and initiatives.
66. Tim Hanstad – Landesa
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Tim-Hanstad.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Tim-Hanstad.jpg)
Background: Tim Hanstad is an American lawyer and land rights advocate.
Achievements: Co-founded Landesa, which works to secure land rights for the world’s poorest people. His organization has helped millions of families gain legal control over their land, promoting economic growth and social justice.
67. Bryan Walsh – ThinkPlay
Background: Bryan Walsh is an American journalist and author.
Achievements: Founder of ThinkPlay, an organization that promotes play-based learning for children. His work emphasizes the importance of play in child development and education.
68. Leila Janah – SamaSource
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![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Leila-Janah.jpg)
Background: Leila Janah was an American social entrepreneur.
Achievements: Founded SamaSource, which connects low-income people to digital work. Her organization has lifted thousands out of poverty by providing training and employment opportunities.
69. Adam Braun – Pencils of Promise
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![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Adam-Braun.jpg)
Background: Adam Braun is an American entrepreneur and author.
Achievements: Founded Pencils of Promise to build schools and increase access to quality education in developing countries. His organization has built over 500 schools, impacting thousands of children.
70. Kristine Pearson – Lifeline Energy
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![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Kristine-Pearson.jpg)
Background: Kristine Pearson is a South African social entrepreneur.
Achievements: Founded Lifeline Energy, which provides solar-powered radios and lights to off-grid communities. Her work has improved access to education and information for millions of people.
71. Dave Eggers – 826 National
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![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Dave-Eggers.jpg)
Background: Dave Eggers is an American author and philanthropist.
Achievements: Co-founded 826 National, a network of writing and tutoring centers for young people. His organization has helped thousands of students improve their writing skills and academic performance.
72. Dr. Sakena Yacoobi – Afghan Institute of Learning
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Dr.-Sakena-Yacoobi.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Dr.-Sakena-Yacoobi.jpg)
Background: Dr. Sakena Yacoobi is an Afghan educator and humanitarian.
Achievements: Founded the Afghan Institute of Learning to provide education and healthcare to women and children. Her organization has reached millions of people, promoting gender equality and community development.
73. Gary Haugen – International Justice Mission
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![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Gary-Haugen.jpg)
Background: Gary Haugen is an American lawyer and human rights advocate.
Achievements: Founded International Justice Mission to combat human trafficking and violence against the poor. His organization has rescued thousands of victims and brought perpetrators to justice.
74. Yvette Alberdingk Thijm – WITNESS
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Yvette-Alberdingk-Thijm.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Yvette-Alberdingk-Thijm.jpg)
Background: Yvette Alberdingk Thijm is a Dutch human rights advocate.
Achievements: Executive Director of WITNESS, which uses video technology to document human rights abuses. Her leadership has empowered activists worldwide to advocate for justice and accountability.
75. Katie Meyler – More Than Me
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Katie-Meyler.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Katie-Meyler.jpg)
Background: Katie Meyler is an American humanitarian.
Achievements: Founded More Than Me to provide education and support to girls in Liberia. Her organization played a critical role in responding to the Ebola crisis, saving lives and supporting affected communities.
76. Wilson Miner – Build Africa
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Wilson-Miner.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Wilson-Miner.jpg)
Background: Wilson Miner is a British social entrepreneur.
Achievements: CEO of Build Africa, which works to improve education and livelihoods in rural Africa. His organization has built schools, provided teacher training, and supported community development projects.
77. Anshu Gupta – Goonj
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Anshu-Gupta.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Anshu-Gupta.jpg)
Background: Anshu Gupta is an Indian social entrepreneur.
Achievements: Founded Goonj, which repurposes urban waste to create resources for rural development. His innovative approach addresses both urban waste management and rural poverty.
78. Soraya Salti – INJAZ Al-Arab
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Soraya-Salti.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Soraya-Salti.jpg)
Background: Soraya Salti was a Jordanian social entrepreneur.
Achievements: Led INJAZ Al-Arab, which promotes entrepreneurship education in the Middle East. Her organization has empowered millions of young people with the skills to start their own businesses and drive economic growth.
79. Christopher Gavigan – Healthy Child Healthy World
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![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Christopher-Gavigan.jpg)
Background: Christopher Gavigan is an American entrepreneur and environmental health advocate.
Achievements: Founded Healthy Child Healthy World to protect children from harmful chemicals. His work has increased awareness about environmental toxins and promoted safer, healthier environments for children.
80. Sylvia Earle – Mission Blue
Background: Sylvia Earle is an American marine biologist and oceanographer.
Achievements: Founded Mission Blue, which works to protect the world’s oceans. Her leadership has helped establish marine protected areas and raised global awareness about the importance of ocean conservation.
81. Neil Blumenthal and Dave Gilboa – Warby Parker’s Buy a Pair, Give a Pair Program
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Neil-Blumenthal-and-Dave-Gilboa.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Neil-Blumenthal-and-Dave-Gilboa.jpg)
Background: Neil Blumenthal and Dave Gilboa are American entrepreneurs.
Achievements: Co-founded Warby Parker and initiated the Buy a Pair, Give a Pair program, which provides eyeglasses to people in need. Their innovative business model combines profitability with social impact, improving vision care access worldwide.
82. Caroline Ghosn – Levo League
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Caroline-Ghosn.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Caroline-Ghosn.jpg)
Background: Caroline Ghosn is a Lebanese-American entrepreneur.
Achievements: Co-founded Levo League, a professional network for young women. Her organization provides career resources, mentorship, and community support to empower women in the workforce.
83. Vivian Nixon – College & Community Fellowship
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Vivian-Nixon.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Vivian-Nixon.jpg)
Background: Vivian Nixon is an American social justice advocate.
Achievements: Executive Director of College & Community Fellowship, which helps formerly incarcerated women pursue higher education. Her leadership has transformed lives by promoting educational opportunities and reducing recidivism.
84. Caryl Stern – UNICEF USA
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Caryl-Stern.jpg)
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Background: Caryl Stern is an American non-profit executive.
Achievements: Led UNICEF USA, which supports UNICEF’s global efforts to improve the lives of children. Her leadership has driven significant fundraising and advocacy initiatives to support children’s rights and welfare.
85. Anjali Forber-Pratt – Disability Rights Advocate
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Anjali-Forber-Pratt-793x1024.png)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Anjali-Forber-Pratt-793x1024.png)
Background: Anjali Forber-Pratt is an American Paralympic athlete and disability rights advocate.
Achievements: Advocates for the rights of people with disabilities, focusing on education and inclusion. Her work has raised awareness and driven policy changes to improve accessibility and opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
86. Laura Arrillaga-Andreessen – Laura Arrillaga-Andreessen Foundation
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Laura-Arrillaga-Andreessen.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Laura-Arrillaga-Andreessen.jpg)
Background: Laura Arrillaga-Andreessen is an American philanthropist and author.
Achievements: Founded the Laura Arrillaga-Andreessen Foundation to promote effective philanthropy. Her work focuses on educating donors and non-profits on strategic giving to maximize social impact.
87. Cathy Calvin – United Nations Foundation
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Cathy-Calvin-1024x341.jpg)
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Background: Cathy Calvin is an American non-profit executive.
Achievements: President and CEO of the United Nations Foundation, which supports the UN’s global initiatives. Her leadership has advanced issues such as global health, climate change, and women’s rights.
88. Sara Blakely – The Sara Blakely Foundation
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Sara-Blakely.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Sara-Blakely.jpg)
Background: Sara Blakely is an American entrepreneur and philanthropist.
Achievements: Founded The Sara Blakely Foundation to support women’s education and entrepreneurship. Her philanthropic efforts focus on empowering women to achieve economic independence and success.
89. Amy Cuddy – Cuddy Inc. & Movement to Work
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Amy-Cuddy.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Amy-Cuddy.jpg)
Background: Amy Cuddy is an American social psychologist and author.
Achievements: Advocates for non-profit organizations and social initiatives that focus on empowerment and inclusion. Her work emphasizes the importance of body language and presence in building confidence and leadership skills.
90. Angela Glover Blackwell – PolicyLink
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Angela-Glover-Blackwell.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Angela-Glover-Blackwell.jpg)
Background: Angela Glover Blackwell is an American social justice advocate.
Achievements: Founded PolicyLink, which advances racial and economic equity through policy advocacy. Her leadership has influenced numerous policies that promote equitable development and opportunity for marginalized communities.
91. Blair Glencorse – Accountability Lab
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Blair-Glencorse.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Blair-Glencorse.jpg)
Background: Blair Glencorse is a British social entrepreneur.
Achievements: Founded Accountability Lab, which promotes transparency and accountability in governance. His organization supports initiatives that empower citizens to fight corruption and improve governance practices.
92. Derek Yach – Vitality Group
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Derek-Yach.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Derek-Yach.jpg)
Background: Derek Yach is a South African health advocate and global health expert.
Achievements: Founded Vitality Group to promote health and well-being through innovative wellness programs. His work focuses on preventing non-communicable diseases and improving health outcomes worldwide.
93. Julie Hanna – Kiva
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Julie-Hanna.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Julie-Hanna.jpg)
Background: Julie Hanna is an Egyptian-American entrepreneur and non-profit executive.
Achievements: Executive Chair of Kiva, a micro-lending platform that connects lenders with entrepreneurs in developing countries. Her leadership has expanded Kiva’s reach, providing financial support to millions of small businesses globally.
94. Ruma Bose – Chobani Foundation
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![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Ruma-Bose.jpg)
Background: Ruma Bose is an American entrepreneur and philanthropist.
Achievements: President of the Chobani Foundation, which supports initiatives to promote entrepreneurship and community development. Her work has driven significant social impact through strategic philanthropy.
95. Randi Weingarten – American Federation of Teachers
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Randi-Weingarten.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Randi-Weingarten.jpg)
Background: Randi Weingarten is an American labor leader and educator.
Achievements: President of the American Federation of Teachers, which advocates for the rights of teachers and education professionals. Her leadership has focused on improving education policies and working conditions for educators.
96. Heather McGhee – Demos
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Background: Heather McGhee is an American political commentator and policy expert.
Achievements: Former President of Demos, a think tank that promotes social and economic equity. Her work has influenced policies on issues such as voting rights, economic justice, and racial equity.
97. Deeksha Joshi, President, No Worker Left Behind Inc
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![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/deeksha.jpg)
Deeksha Joshi is the President of No Worker Left Behind Inc., a non-profit advocating for fair labor practices and inclusive work environments. With a background in corporate leadership, Deeksha leads initiatives to improve workplace standards and promote employee well-being. Under her guidance, the organization combines policy advocacy, community support, and training programs to empower workers. Deeksha is known for her dedication to social justice and frequently speaks on the future of work. No Worker Left Behind also conducts an annual virtual global conference on work and future of work topics, furthering their mission.
98. Tammy Tibbetts – She’s the First
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![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Tammy-Tibbetts.jpg)
Background: Tammy Tibbetts is an American social entrepreneur.
Achievements: Co-founded She’s the First, which supports girls’ education and empowerment. Her organization provides scholarships and mentorship to girls in low-income countries, helping them to become leaders in their communities.
99. Maya Ajmera – Society for Science & the Public
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![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Maya-Ajmera.jpg)
Background: Maya Ajmera is an American social entrepreneur and author.
Achievements: President and CEO of Society for Science & the Public, which promotes scientific research and education. Her leadership has expanded opportunities for young scientists and increased public engagement in science.
100. Scott Neeson – Cambodian Children’s Fund
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![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Scott-Neeson-1024x576.jpg)
Background: Scott Neeson is an Australian humanitarian.
Achievements: Founded the Cambodian Children’s Fund, which provides education, healthcare, and support to impoverished children in Cambodia. His work has transformed the lives of thousands of children, helping them to escape poverty and build brighter futures.
101. Kyle Zimmer – First Book
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Kyle-Zimmer.jpg)
![](https://theworktimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Kyle-Zimmer.jpg)
Background: Kyle Zimmer is an American social entrepreneur.
Achievements: Founded First Book, which provides new books and educational resources to children in need. Her organization has distributed millions of books to underserved communities, promoting literacy and educational equity.
Call to Action
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