BB Desk
The Shift’s inaugural list of 90 extraordinary women redefining leadership, creativity, and cultural influence around the world has featured two women from Indian cinema, Zoya Akhtar and Deepika Padukone.

They are in incredible company, alongside names like Amal Clooney, Selena Gomez, Angelina Jolie, Billie Eilish, Amanda Gorman, and other rising voices, legacy leaders and global changemakers.
“I really Believe that once equal opportunity is given, women will do the rest. It’s gotten better, and we have seen some amazing work simply because we have the opportunity” shares Zoya on being included in the Shift’s 90 Plus One list.
Deepika and Zoya have both been forerunnerss in the make-driven industry with their talent and creative choices. As Indian women, they have inspired audiences globally, setting new benchmarks.
The list also honours other Indian-origin women making a global impact, including Leena Nair, Rupi Kaur, Trisha Shetty, Geetha Murali, Shilpa Yarlagadda, and Seema R. Hingorani.
At the heart of the issue is Gloria Steinem – a global feminist icon, writer, and activist whose lifelong work continues to inspire and empower generations. Gloria’s Foundation is created to carry forward her legacy, with a mission to advance the feminist movement and support the next wave of changemakers.