“Today, do what others won’t so tomorrow you can accomplish what others can’t.” — Simone Biles (Credit: Wikimedia Commons)

The world’s most well-known women made some major headlines in 2021.

In addition to making historic achievements in their respective fields, women athletes, performers, artists and entrepreneurs also spoke up for what they believed in – from a person’s right to choose, to the need to prioritize our mental and physical health. They also often used their clout to raise both awareness and funds for various causes.

Below, we take a look back on 10 especially empowering moments from the past year.

1

Beyonce. (Credit: Wikipedia Commons).

Beyoncé, Bethenny and a Slew of Women-Led Organizations Take on Texas Relief

These celebrities are among many entrepreneurial women helping Texans recover from its winter storm crisis. READ MORE

2

(Credit: Gage Skidmore, Flickr)

Christina Applegate, Diagnosed With MS, Uses Platform to Help Others

The star was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and took to Twitter. This wasn’t the first time she’s been public about her conditions. READ MORE

3

(Credit: Sotheby's)

Frida Kahlo Joins Top-Selling Women Artists with $34.9 Million Sotheby’s Sale

Kahlo cements her legacy and makes history with “Diego and I,” which recently sold at auction. READ MORE

4

(Credit: Agência Brasil Fotografias, Wikimedia Commons)

Today, Mental Health Took the Gold at the Olympics

Superstar gymnast Simone Biles reminded us that, no matter what, our health has to come first. READ MORE

5

(Credit: Wikimedia Commons)

Britney Spears’ Ongoing Battle for Freedom From Conservatorship

For 13 years, nearly everything about the internationally renowned performer’s life has been controlled by her father. This year, she fought to take the reins once more – and ultimately won. READ MORE

6

(Credit: Wikimedia Commons)

Ayesha Curry Is on a Mission to Help Black Women-Owned Businesses

A slam dunk: Goldman Sachs is offering $10 billion to 1 million Black women, thanks to the wife of NBA star Stephen Curry. READ MORE

7

(Credit: ImagineCup, Flickr)

Amy Schumer, Eva Longoria and More Famous Women Demand ‘Marshall Plan for Moms’

A basic income for moms doesn’t sound so crazy. These famous folks put their platforms behind this plan. READ MORE

8

Chloe Zhao broke artistic barriers at the 2021 Academy Awards with her film, Nomadland. (Credit: Wikimedia Commons)

4 Big Wins for Women of Color at the 2021 Oscars

History was made several times over as awards were doled out at the 2021 Oscars ceremony. READ MORE

9

(Credit: Ajay Suresh, Wikimedia Commons)

Marta Ortega Pérez Grew Up with Zara. Now She’s Taking Over the Brand

The founder of Zara picked his youngest daughter to run the fast fashion giant. READ MORE

10

(Credit: Saturday Night Live)

‘Saturday Night Live’ Sketch Tackles Abortion Debate With Razor-Sharp Humor

Cecily Strong took on what is still a frustratingly taboo topic, while the Supreme Court heard arguments regarding Texas’ restrictive abortion law. READ MORE