it's essential to recognize black women who have been pioneers, activists, innovators, inventors and powerhouses throughout the course of history. These women have positively influenced our world - many have been “firsts,” and they’ve all paved the way for black girls and women globally. When we say this is our short list, we mean it. There’s an abundance of female black excellence that’s been imprinted on the soul of our nation and rightfully cemented in our history books.