In a world where the contributions of women are often downplayed or narrowly centered on beauty and entertainment, The Feisty News for Women presents the 2024 Feisty Awards to 16 feisty women who have appointed themselves to create solutions to problems in our society. These women are social disruptors, boldly taking action to advance humanity; the true definition of the future of leadership.
The Feisty Award Winners
Aicha Evans | Automotive Technology CEO
Aicha Evans is a tech titan quietly revolutionizing the future of transportation. Born in Africa and raised in America, Evans isn’t just an executive; she’s an architect. She got the pedigree – a Computer Engineering degree from George Washington University. After a decade of honing her skills at Intel, leading wireless engineering projects and driving the company’s shift towards data-centricity, Evans became the CEO of Zoox in 2019. Her vision and strategic prowess soon caught the eye of tech giant Amazon, leading to Zoox’s acquisition in 2020 for a staggering $1.3 billion. Now, Evans leads a team of brainy folks at Zoox, making self-driving taxis & cars a reality, not just a sci-fi fantasy.
Cassidy Hutchinson | Former White House Aide
Cassidy Hutchinson emerged as a pivotal figure during the House committee hearings on the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. At 25, she delivered a live testimony in June 2022, exposing shocking incidents, including Trump’s alleged physical assault on a Secret Service officer. Hutchinson, originally from New Jersey, rose through Republican ranks, eventually serving as a key aide to Chief of Staff Mark Meadows. Her revelations extended to claims of Trump’s knowledge and encouragement of armed supporters on January 6. Despite facing threats post-testimony, Hutchinson returned with a memoir, “Enough,” in September 2023, providing a behind-the-scenes look at her tumultuous experiences. Now in Washington, D.C., with her dog, George, she contemplates a potential return to politics.
“Cassidy was one of the few badasses brave enough to come forward and testify in the January 6th Committee hearings against one of the most powerful men in the world about her experience as a White House aide to former President Trump. Hutchinson identified the inherent danger to democracy in the insurrection, and she felt it her patriotic, ethical, and moral duty to help protect our country, despite the extensive fallout that she knew would come (criticism, attacks, death threats, etc.). She was willing to admit that she had been complicit in the corruption & lies of the Trump presidency, and she showed enormous courage, integrity, honesty by speaking out at a time where it really mattered, possibly even changing the course of American history.” – Amanda Dexter, Educator
Cassie Ventura | Singer/Songwriter
Casandra Ventura, known mononymously as Cassie, is more than just a talented singer and R&B artist. Born in Connecticut in 1986, Cassie’s musical journey began early. By 14, she’d signed a record deal with Diddy’s Bad Boy Records, launching a career filled with chart-topping hits like “Me & U” and “Long Time No See.” The two dated on and off from about 2007 to 2018. But behind the scenes, Cassie faced a harrowing reality.
In November 2023, she filed a lawsuit against Diddy, detailing a decades-long pattern of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. Her allegations, including rape, controlling behavior, and forced participation in sex acts, resonated deeply with women around the world. Her bravery inspired survivors worldwide, breaking the silence on sexual violence. Beyond legal action, she advocates for survivors’ rights and supports organizations like RAINN.
Elizabeth Wathuti | Environmentalist
Elizabeth Wathuti, a 28-year-old Kenyan environmental activist, has dedicated her life to planting more than just trees – she’s sowing the seeds of climate consciousness in young minds. Through her Green Generation Initiative, she’s planted over 30,000 trees in Kenya, but her true passion lies in empowering the next generation to be climate advocates. Driven by a childhood love for nature and a growing awareness of climate impacts like drought and crop failures, Wathuti empowers youth by teaching them to “clean their own air, grow their own food, and create their own green spaces.” She advocates for young people’s inclusion in climate discussions, spearheading the first-ever African Youth Climate Assembly and contributing to the Wangari Maathai Youth Hub. She even aspires to become the U.N. Secretary-General to further amplify youth voices on the global stage.
Dr. Fei-Fei Li | Computer Scientist
Dr. Fei-Fei Li, a pioneering AI researcher dubbed the “Godmother of AI,” has spent over two decades shaping the field. Now leading Stanford’s AI lab, she’s not only teaching robots to mimic human behavior but also advocating for ethical AI development. Li’s groundbreaking “ImageNet” system, once doubted by many, became the foundation for today’s popular AI models. Despite her discomfort with the “Godmother” title, Li champions diverse representation in AI through her co-founded AI4ALL organization. In her memoir, “The Worlds I See,” she shares her journey from an immigrant child in the US to a prominent AI leader, emphasizing the technology’s dual potential for inspiration and responsibility. Li believes the power lies within people, urging us to use AI responsibly and ethically.
Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett | Viral Immunologist
Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, a viral immunologist and a key figure in developing the COVID-19 vaccine, began her pivotal work when news of the novel coronavirus outbreak reached her in early 2020. As a senior research fellow at the Vaccine Research Center, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Corbett had been studying coronaviruses for five years, laying the groundwork for vaccine development. Corbett’s leadership and expertise, notably in the spike proteins of the virus, laid the foundation for Moderna’s vaccine, which was authorized for use in less than a year. As a Black woman in science, she faced the pressure to prove herself, challenging the status quo. Now at Harvard, she continues to combat vaccine hesitancy and advocates for diversity in scientific research, determined to pave the way for other Black women scientists.
“What strikes me as bold and feisty about Dr. Corbett is her relentless pursuit of science in the face of immense pressure. She was at the forefront of vaccine research when the world desperately needed it, and she faced this colossal challenge head-on. It’s not just her scientific acumen that’s impressive; it’s her commitment to public engagement and her efforts to boost confidence in the vaccine, especially among minority communities. Her impact transcends healthcare; it’s about social justice, equality in healthcare access, and breaking down barriers in a field often dominated by men. She’s a true trailblazer, and her name has been rightfully in the news for her extraordinary contributions. It’s these qualities that make me think of her as a woman who truly stands out.” – Zarina Bahadur, 123 Baby Box
Madison Campbell | Entrepreneur
Madison Pulford Campbell is an American businesswoman and entrepreneur best known as the CEO and founder of Leda Health. Raised in Bridgeville, Pennsylvania, she initially pursued musical theater and later dance before a diagnosis of thoracic outlet syndrome altered her career path. She later majored in public health and epidemiology at Hampshire College but faced challenges, including an abusive relationship. Recognizing that approximately 77% of survivors in the United States do not report, she aims to address the underutilization of existing resources. In 2019, she founded MeToo Kits, later rebranded as Leda Health, offering innovative “early evidence kits” for sexual assault survivors. The company expanded its services and garnered recognition, earning a spot on Fortune’s Change the World list in 2022. She is a multifaceted figure with achievements in business, healthcare, and beauty pageantry.
“Madison Campbell, CEO of Leda Health, redefines boldness in healthcare. As a sexual assault survivor, she challenged traditional systems by launching at-home evidence kits for assault survivors, revolutionizing how evidence is collected and empowering individuals in dire situations. Her audacity to confront and innovate within a sensitive field is not just bold, it’s game-changing. This year, she also won Miss Pittsburgh!” – Braelin Andrzejewski
Mahbouba Seraj | Afghan Journalist
Mahbouba Seraj, a key champion of women’s rights in Afghanistan, caught everyone’s attention when she was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Even though she didn’t win, her nomination put a spotlight on the ongoing struggles faced by women in the war-torn country. At 75, she’s part of a resilient generation working for Afghanistan’s better future, carrying the legacy of a brighter past. Seraj confronted Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid over the ban on girls’ education and other restrictions on women. She passionately urged the reopening of girls’ schools, emphasizing the crucial role of education. Taliban’s decision has led to 80 percent of Afghan girls and young women being out of school since 2021, reversing decades of progress.
Nashali Alma | Fitness Influencer
Nashali Alma, a 24-year-old American fitness model and social media influencer from Tampa, Florida, rose to prominence after courageously thwarting an attacker in a viral gym assault video. Alongside her academic pursuits—studying biomedical sciences and nursing—Alma is a certified personal trainer, online gym coach, and medical lab technician. Her sizable Instagram following attests to her influence in the fitness community, where she is recognized as a bodybuilder and fitness model. Nashali Alma’s heroic act has not only brought attention to her personal story but has also inspired others to speak out against similar incidents, showcasing her resilience and determination.
Natasha Guynes | Social Entrepreneur
Natasha Guynes is a passionate advocate for women’s rights and social justice, transforming her challenging past into a source of empowerment. Overcoming an abusive childhood, she left home 17 years ago to seek independence and success. Despite facing financial challenges and falling into self-destructive habits like drug addiction, Natasha never lost sight of her dream to enter politics. A turning point came with a homeless shelter stay and a 12-step program, propelling Natasha into college and impactful political roles. In 2015, she founded the HER Resiliency Center in Washington, D.C., a nonprofit dedicated to helping young women facing challenges like drug addiction and homelessness. Her background includes serving on Capitol Hill for Sen. Harry Reid, Sen. Ben Nelson, Sen. Brian Schatz, and the Senate Commission on Long-Term Care, as well as working for Media Matters for America.
Navanethem Pillay | Jurist
Navanethem Pillay, also known as Navi Pillay, is a prominent South African jurist who served as the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights from 2008 to 2014. She grew up in a time when apartheid, a system that separated people based on race, was in place. Despite facing these challenges, she became a lawyer and helped fight for the rights of political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela. Pillay made history as the first non-white woman judge on South Africa’s High Court. She also played a crucial role in recognizing rape as a part of genocide during the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda. Even at 81, she continues to be a strong advocate for human rights, currently leading the Independent Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
Sonia Sotomayor | U.S. Supreme Court Justice
Sonia Sotomayor is an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States. Overcoming early challenges, including a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes at the age of 7 and the loss of her father at 9, Sotomayor excelled academically, graduating summa cum laude from Princeton University in 1976 and obtaining her Juris Doctor from Yale Law School in 1979. In 2009, President Obama appointed her the first Latina Supreme Court justice, marking a historic milestone. Throughout her tenure, Sotomayor has been known for her liberal stance and has made key contributions to decisions on issues ranging from Miranda warnings to healthcare and civil liberties. Despite recent shifts in the Court’s balance, she continues to advocate for her principles, notably in dissenting opinions on cases related to civil liberties, abortion rights, and immigration.
Stacey Abrams | Politician
Stacey Abrams is a prominent political leader, voting rights activist, and bestselling author known for her impactful career in Georgia’s political landscape. Serving for eleven years in the Georgia House of Representatives, with seven years as Democratic Leader, Abrams made history in 2018 as the first black woman to become the gubernatorial nominee for a major party in the United States. Beyond her political achievements, Abrams founded Fair Fight in response to the mismanagement of the 2018 election, aiming to ensure every American’s voice is heard in the electoral system. She has consistently championed voting rights, founded organizations focusing on social issues, and launched initiatives such as Fair Count to ensure accuracy in the 2020 Census. In the 2022 election, she again ran for governor but faced another defeat against Brian Kemp. As an accomplished author, she wrote books on leadership, societal change, and a thriller titled “While Justice Sleeps.”
“Stacey Abrams has been a beacon of political activism, notably for her efforts in voting rights. Her tenacity and strategic mobilization have played a critical role in engaging underrepresented voters. Her persistent advocacy for fair voting practices demonstrates her unwavering commitment to democracy, making her not only noteworthy but also truly ‘feisty’ in her endeavors. I believe her work reflects a powerful and positive shift towards inclusivity and justice within our society. ” – Jessica Moore, CEO, SilkyDurag
Vandana Shiva | Environmentalist
Vandana Shiva is an influential Indian scholar, environmental activist, and anti-globalization author based in Delhi. Renowned as the “Gandhi of grain,” she has dedicated her career to advocating for food sovereignty and environmental sustainability. With a Ph.D. in physics and philosophy of science, she has authored over 20 works and is a prominent figure in the anti-GMO movement. In 1982, she founded the Research Foundation for Science, Technology and Ecology, leading to the establishment of Navdanya in 1991—a national movement promoting organic farming and fair trade. Shiva’s activism extends to intellectual property rights, biodiversity, and genetic engineering, challenging biopiracy and advocating for seed freedom. Her most notable act was her resistance against the patenting of the Neem tree, a sacred tree in India, by multinational corporations.
Whitney Wolfe Herd | Entrepreneur
Whitney Wolfe Herd is an American entrepreneur known for her significant contributions to the online dating industry. As the founder and former CEO of Bumble, a female-focused dating app launched in 2014, she made history in February 2021 as the world’s youngest female billionaire when Bumble went public. Before Bumble, Wolfe Herd co-founded Tinder, where she served as Vice President of Marketing, playing a pivotal role in the app’s early success. Despite facing challenges and resigning from Tinder in 2014, she rebounded by creating Bumble in 2014, aiming to provide a more empowering and respectful dating experience. Beyond her entrepreneurial success, Wolfe Herd is recognized for her philanthropic efforts, including founding the “Help Us Project” and addressing issues like human trafficking. As of May 2023, Forbes estimates her net worth at approximately $510 million. She’s a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs and a champion for changing the narrative in the world of dating.
“Whitney Wolfe Herd is a true trailblazer in the tech industry, particularly in dating apps. Her commitment to creating a safe and empowering online dating environment, especially for women, resonates with my work at CamGo. She has demonstrated feistiness and bold leadership by consistently advocating for women’s issues and making Bumble a platform where respect and equality are the norms. Her impact extends beyond tech, influencing societal views on online dating and women’s roles in tech entrepreneurship.” – Kayden Roberts, CMO, CamGo
Yashoda Lodhi | Educator
Yashoda Lodhi, a confident and inspiring woman from rural Uttar Pradesh, has become a beacon of education through her YouTube channel, “English with Dehati Madam.” She started the channel in May 2022 and now has over 2.85 lakh subscribers and 25.8 million views on her 368 videos. Yashoda, also known as Dehati Madam, wears a saree and covers her head while confidently teaching English. She created the channel to help people, especially students and women in villages, learn English easily. Yashoda encourages her viewers not to be afraid of making mistakes in English and shares tips like practicing in front of a mirror to gain confidence. Her friendly and accessible approach to language learning has made her a popular teacher on YouTube.
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