As Vice President Kamala Harris campaigns for office, we’re reminded of how far women have come in leadership—and how much further there is to go. Her candidacy reflects a broader shift, signaling that we may be entering an era where women at the top aren’t an exception but the norm. Yet, the numbers reveal that we’re still not there.
While 52 women now hold CEO positions at Fortune 500 companies—a milestone in itself—they still represent only 10.4% of all Fortune 500 CEOs. Of these, less than 1% are women of color. These statistics highlight the persistent gap, especially considering that companies with women in leadership roles outperform their peers by 30%. The benefits are clear, so why does progress remain slow?
It’s important to recognize that women in leadership drive innovation, resilience, and growth. They often bring a fresh perspective to problem-solving, empathy in decision-making, and a collaborative leadership style that fosters inclusivity. Studies have shown that diverse teams make better decisions, and with women at the helm, companies can access untapped potential that ultimately benefits their bottom line.
But the road to leadership isn’t without challenges. Women, particularly women of color, still face systemic barriers such as wage gaps, unconscious bias, and limited access to mentorship and sponsorship opportunities. Despite the obstacles, trailblazers like Kamala Harris show what’s possible when these barriers are broken.
As we move forward, both in business and politics, it’s crucial to continue fostering inclusive environments that harness the full potential of diverse leadership. This means supporting policies that promote gender equity, investing in leadership programs for women, and actively working to create spaces where all voices are heard and valued.
As we head into another election year, let’s take a moment to reflect not only on what women have accomplished but also on what can be achieved when we actively support the rise of women in leadership. The numbers may not yet reflect the full potential, but the trajectory is promising.
Is this the age of women in leadership? If we continue to make deliberate, strategic efforts, it very well could be.