Innovative trailblazers over the age of fifty: Introducing the women who inspire, lead, and capture optimism
Forbes' 2025 50 Over 50 List Celebrates Achievements of Women Over 50
In a world where youth often dominates the headlines, the 2025 edition of Forbes' 50 Over 50 list shines a spotlight on the achievements and impact of women who are making their mark well beyond traditional retirement age. This year's honorees include a diverse group of influential women such as Halle Berry, Susie Wiles, Maria Shriver, Freada Kapor Klein, Suma Krishnan, Racquel Oden, and Deryl McKissack.
Halle Berry, best known for her role in "Monster's Ball" which earned her a Best Actress Academy Award, has made a second career as an entrepreneur. Speaking out about her health struggles has opened up new opportunities and showcased her resilience.
Suma Krishnan's biotech company, Krystal Biotech, is worth over $4 billion due to gene therapy patents for a rare skin disease and cystic fibrosis. Her groundbreaking work is revolutionizing the field of biotechnology.
Racquel Oden leads HSBC US’s wealth management and private banking businesses, focusing on high-net-worth client engagement and inclusion. Her work is breaking barriers and shaping the future of wealth and private banking.
Deryl McKissack is a founder and CEO honored on the list for her leadership. Her entrepreneurial ventures and innovations are making a significant impact across various industries.
Ada Monzón, Puerto Rico's first female meteorologist, is a lifeline to the island's 3 million residents during Category 4 and 5 hurricanes. Her expertise and dedication have been crucial in keeping the community informed and safe.
Priscilla Almodovar made history by becoming the first woman to lead Fannie Mae, a $4.3 trillion institution. She has become a leading voice on the national housing affordability crisis, using her position to drive change and make a difference.
Thasunda Brown Duckett, the CEO of retirement savings juggernaut TIAA, is increasing retirement savings literacy. Her efforts are helping individuals better understand and prepare for their financial future.
Saira Malik, the chief investment officer for Nuveen, oversees a business with over $1 trillion in assets under management. Her expertise and leadership are shaping the future of investment management.
Karen Clark founded a catastrophic risk modeling company in 1987 that today maps some $100 trillion in total risk exposure across America's buildings and homes. Her work is crucial in helping communities understand and prepare for potential disasters.
Alice Wong founded the Disability Visibility Project and received a MacArthur "genius" grant in 2024. Her work is changing the conversation around aging, power, and legacy, and she is a powerful advocate for the disabled community.
The 50 Over 50 list is the result of a five-month research and reporting process that involves public nominations, beat journalists at Forbes, and Know Your Value. The final list is selected through extensive vetting, fact-checking, and expert consultation. The list celebrates women who continue to innovate, lead, and make powerful contributions beyond traditional retirement age, highlighting the continuing influence and dynamism of older women across diverse domains.
Entrepreneur Halle Berry, renowned for her acting career and Academy Award win, has ventured into finance with her second career. Her resilience and health struggles have opened up new business opportunities.
Diversity and inclusion advocate Racquel Oden, leading HSBC US’s wealth management and private banking businesses, is shaping the lifestyle and business segments by breaking barriers and engaging high-net-worth clients.
