In 2024, Black women across the world continued to shatter glass ceilings, redefined leadership, and made their mark in every field imaginable.
From groundbreaking political achievements to pioneering advancements in science, sports, the corporate world and the arts, their contributions made history and inspired generations to dream bigger.
These women reminded us that 2024 was not just about making headlines, it was about rewriting narratives. Whether it was in boardrooms, classrooms, or global stages, Black women led with vision and determination, showing the world what true leadership looks like.
Here is a celebration of the powerful extraordinary black women who made history in 2024.
Also Read: General Fatuma Ahmed; Meet Fearless First Female Kenya Airforce Commander
Major General Fatuma Ahmed: Kenya’s Air Force Commander
Major General Fatuma Ahmed shattered gender barriers as the first woman to lead Kenya’s Air Force.
Rising to the ranks of brigadier and major general, she has redefined leadership in a traditionally male-dominated field. Her historic appointment stands as a testament to her determination, courage, and commitment to service.
Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman II
At just 17 years old, Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman II became the youngest person to earn a doctorate in Integrated Behavioral Health from Arizona State University.
Her extraordinary achievement redefines what is possible, proving that age is no barrier to academic success.
These remarkable women remind us of the power of resilience, talent, and purpose. Their achievements in 2024 have paved the way for future generations, proving that no dream is too big and no barrier too strong to overcome.
Vanessa Kingori
Vanessa Kingori made history as the most senior Black leader in Google’s entire European business organization.
With over 20 years of experience in media and creative industries, she now serves as Google’s Managing Director of Technology, Media, and Telecoms.
Previously, she broke barriers as the first female Publishing Director of British Vogue in its 100-year history, paving the way for greater diversity in leadership.
Black Women Who Made History in Politics
Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang: Ghana’s First Female Vice President-Elect
Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, an accomplished academic and politician, made history as Ghana’s first female vice president-elect.
This milestone represented a significant leap for women in African politics, emphasizing progress toward greater female representation in government.
Judith Tuluka Suminwa
She is the Democratic Republic of Congo’s First Female Prime Minister
Judith Tuluka Suminwa made history as the first female Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Her appointment marked a monumental achievement in African politics, showcasing the growing representation of women in leadership roles on the continent.
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah: Namibia’s First Female President-Elect
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah shattered the glass ceiling by becoming Namibia’s first female president-elect.
Her election represents a historic moment not just for Namibia but for women across Africa, as it highlights the strides being made toward achieving gender equality in politics.
Kamala Harris: A Historic U.S. Presidential Nomination
Kamala Harris made history in 2024 by becoming the first Black and South Asian woman to secure a major U.S. party’s presidential nomination.
Garnering 73 million votes, her groundbreaking achievement redefined leadership in American politics and inspired generations to believe in the power of representation.
Efua Ghartey: Ghana’s First Female Bar Association President
Efua Ghartey broke a 100-year tradition by becoming the first female president of the Ghana Bar Association.
With over 30 years of legal experience, her election marks a significant step toward gender equality and inclusivity in Ghana’s legal profession.
Huldah Hiltsley Momanyi
Kenyan-born Huldah Hiltsley Momanyi made history following her election as Minnesota’s first legislator of Kenyan heritage.
Huldah Hiltsley, a Democratic–Farmer–labour Party candidate (DFLer) from Brooklyn Park, defeated Republican Brad Olson, also of Brooklyn Park, in a House District 38A race.
Black Women Who Made History in Music and Arts
Beyoncé: The Greatest Pop Star of the 21st Century
Billboard officially named Beyoncé the greatest pop star of the 21st century, recognizing her 25 years of influence, evolution, and unmatched impact on music.
In 2024, she also made history as the first Black woman to top the Country Charts, further solidifying her status as an icon across multiple genres.
Megan Thee Stallion: A Record-Breaking Rapper
Megan Thee Stallion made music history with her solo hit Hiss debuting at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and Billboard Global 200.
She also became the first female rapper to host the MTV Video Music Awards, further solidifying her position as a cultural icon in hip-hop.
Doechii: A Hip-Hop Powerhouse
Doechii made waves in the music industry as the first female rapper of the 2020s to earn a Best Rap Album nomination at the Grammys.
Her iconic mixtape, Alligator Bites Never Heal, received four nominations, making her the most nominated female rapper at this year’s awards and cementing her influence on hip-hop culture.
History Made in Sports
Simone Biles: America’s Most Decorated Gymnast
Simone Biles continued to set records in 2024, solidifying her title as the most decorated gymnast in American history.
Her unmatched skills, resilience, and dedication have made her a global inspiration, transcending sports to become a symbol of excellence.
Coco Gauff: The Highest-Paid Female Athlete of 2024
At just 20 years old, Coco Gauff became the highest-paid female athlete of 2024, cementing her position as one of the most influential figures in sports.
Her remarkable achievements on and off the court highlight her as a role model for young athletes worldwide.
Julien Alfred: The Fastest Woman in the World
Julien Alfred sprinted her way into history as the fastest woman in the world.
Triple NCAA champion Julien Alfred graduated to become the best female sprinter in the world, winning three major titles this year.
She gave the first hint of her progress at the World Indoor Championships in Glasgow in March where she won her first international title over 60m.
Her main course was the Olympic gold medal, where she set a Saint Lucian record of 10.72 to upset the world champion Sha’Carri Richardson, who took the silver (10.87)
Tobi Amusan: The Fastest Woman in 100m Hurdles
Nigerian sprint icon Tobi Amusan became the world’s fastest woman in the women’s 100m hurdles after running a world-leading 12.40 seconds.
Tobi Amusan has become the world’s fastest woman in the women’s 100m hurdles after running a world-leading 12.40 seconds.
In a thrilling race, the world record holder secured the victory, leaving behind Danielle Williams, the world champion, who clocked her best time of the season at 12.46 seconds
