Strength, courage, determination: 12 Powerful quotes by women leaders to inspire you

“A woman with a voice is, by definition, a strong woman.” — Melinda Gates

American philanthropist Melinda Gates defines a strong woman as one who has the courage to speak up and express one’s opinions, no matter what. She states that when women use their voices to advocate for themselves and others, they show true courage and power. Consequently, it is this, using of their voices, that changes the world.

“Women have to harness their power—it’s absolutely true. It’s just learning not to take the first no. And if you can’t go straight ahead, you go around the corner.” — Cher

American singer and actress Cher talks about the importance of perseverance and resourcefulness for women. In this quote, she highlights the harnessing of one’s power—it means not giving up and being willing to find alternative paths to achieve one’s goals. Cher stresses that one’s grit and determination is key to success.

“With each generation, women’s ability to live the lives they choose reaches a place their grandmothers never thought possible. But that doesn’t mean everything is perfect or that our work is finished.” — Cathy McMorris Rodgers

American politician Cathy McMorris Rodgers talks about the progress women have made over the generations, achieving opportunities and freedoms that were once unimaginable. She also acknowledges that despite these advancements, there is still work to be done. Her words remind us to celebrate our progress while continuing to strive for improvements in women’s rights.

“When I dare to be powerful, to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid.” — Audre Lord

This quote elaborates on how fear becomes less of a concern when we use our strength and abilities to pursue our goals and dreams. American writer Audre Lorde emphasises that embracing our power and purpose helps reduce the impact of fear within. She encourages us to focus on what we want to achieve rather than being held back by our fears. And steadily enough, the fear we feel begins to dissolve.

“What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” — Jane Goodall

English zoologist Jane Goodall talks about the importance of our actions and their impact on the world. Goodall encourages us to be mindful of the choices we make and to consider the kind of positivity we want to bring about. Her words inspire us to take responsibility for our actions and to use our efforts to create positive differences in the world.

To all the little girls who are watching this, never doubt that you are valuable and powerful, and deserving of every chance and opportunity in the world to pursue and achieve your own dreams.” — Hillary Clinton

This quote is a powerful reminder for young girls to recognise their own worth and potential. Here, American politician Hillary Clinton encourages women to believe in themselves and to pursue their dreams with confidence, knowing they deserve every opportunity to succeed. Her words aim to inspire the next generation to reach for their goals without hesitation or doubt.

“A woman is like a tea bag—you can’t tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water.” — Eleanor Roosevelt

American political figure Eleanor Roosevelt states that a woman’s true strength often becomes evident during challenging times. Roosevelt interestingly uses the metaphor of a tea bag steeped in hot water to show that, just like the tea releases its flavour under heat, a woman’s strength emerges when she faces difficulties. Her words remind us that adversity can reveal our inner strength and character.

These powerful quotes by remarkable women of our world serve as a reminder of the inherent strength and resilience in us and define true empowerment. By drawing from their wisdom, we are encouraged to harness our own power and contribute to a world where everyone can thrive.