Your Career Runway Is Long: Lessons from Women Over 50
In today’s age, the idea that women’s best years are behind them is outdated. The “50 Over 50” list, released annually by Forbes and Know Your Value, showcases women who have achieved incredible accomplishments after the age of 50.
An Impressive List of Achievers
This year’s list includes women from diverse fields, such as biotech, education, retail, and architecture. These honorees have made significant contributions to their industries and continue to inspire others.
Among the notable names are filmmaker Ava DuVernay, former presidential advisor Valerie Jarrett, businesswoman and sports team owner Michele Kang, and actress June Squibb, who is 94 years young.
Entrepreneurship: A Driving Force
Entrepreneurship was a significant theme this year, with over 75 women on the list who founded or own their companies.
Diana Levy, a stay-at-home mom for over 20 years, founded Undercover Snacks after her daughters were diagnosed with Celiac disease. Her company’s products are now sold in 25,000 stores across the U.S. and on United Airlines flights.
Women in Politics and Policy
Politics and policy also have strong representation on the list. Valerie Jarrett, who became an advisor to President Obama at the age of 52, was the longest-serving senior advisor in history.
Cindy McCain, the wife of late Senator John McCain, was appointed executive director of the United Nations’ World Food Programme at the age of 70.
Other Notable Listmakers
The list also includes influential figures such as:
- Dawn Staley, Head Coach, University of South Carolina Women’s Basketball
- Miriam Rivera, Cofounder and CEO, Ulu Ventures
- Peggy Johnson, CEO, Agility Robotics
- Brooke Shields, Actress, Founder and CEO, Commence
- Cecile Richards, Cofounder, Charley
- Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Actor and Host, “Wiser Than Me” Podcast
- Anna Wintour, Global Chief Content Officer, Conde Nast; Editor-in-Chief, Vogue
- Danielle Steel, Author
- Patti Smith, Author and Artist
- Val Ackerman, Commissioner, Big East Conference
- Akiko Iwasaki, Professor, Yale University; Investigator, Howard Hughes Medical Institute
- Marlena Fejzo, Scientist, University of Southern California; Chief Scientific Officer, Harmonia Health
- LaTosha Brown, Cofounder, Black Voters Matter
Lessons for Young Women
The “50 Over 50” list holds valuable lessons for young women. Mika Brzezinski, co-host of “Morning Joe” and founder of Know Your Value, emphasizes that women have time to explore their interests and pursue their goals.
“Living longer, living better, and having success later in life, it’s the long runway,” said Brzezinski. “So younger women can calm down, take a couple of detours in life, do some different things. It is OK. There’s no rush anymore.”
Breaking Stereotypes
The women on this list are living proof that age is not a barrier to success. They have rejected the conventional wisdom that their best years are behind them and are inspiring others to do the same.
Their achievements demonstrate that women can continue to make significant contributions to society and live fulfilling lives throughout their entire lifespan.
To view the full list, please visit the following link:
