Independent Women 2026 The Influence List

"The Independent is once again marking International Women's Day with our annual influence list, celebrating 50 women who have had a powerful impact on British society over the last year. Excelling across sport, the arts, public service, and advocacy, these women are boldly using their voice and talent to change the world."

"Compiled by staff, the list shines a spotlight on the 50 women whose influence has had a significant impact across the country over the last year. This year, the list is focused on the theme give to gain, in recognition of the extraordinary sacrifices many of these women have had to make to succeed."

The Independent marks International Women's Day by publishing its fourth annual influence list on March 8, recognizing 50 women who have made powerful impacts on British society over the past year. The list celebrates women excelling across diverse fields including sport, arts, public service, and advocacy, highlighting their bold use of voice and talent to create change. This year's theme, 'give to gain,' acknowledges the extraordinary sacrifices these women have made to achieve success. The list features notable figures such as England footballer Chloe Kelly, who made a remarkable career comeback and scored the winning penalty at the Euros in 2025, and Hillsborough campaigner Margaret Aspinall, demonstrating the breadth of influence across different sectors of British society.

Read at www.independent.co.uk