There’s an old saying, or insult really, that used to be bandied about, “You fight like a girl,” meaning someone is weak and ineffective. Most of us have decided to retire that phrase, because, obviously, the fiercest fighters are, of course, women. History has shown us the leadership and tenacity of women as making the biggest changes from within the family or friend group to grassroots efforts and top leadership positions in business, STEM, entertainment and beyond. Just last year, we saw the mega success at the box office with “Barbie,” on stage and screen with Taylor Swift and now the groundbreaking, genre-busting latest album from Beyoncé (who also broke records on tour and with her documentary).
In New Orleans, we have no less impressive women leading the way to make change at all levels. Our annual Top Female Achievers class includes leaders who are fighting for representation for indigenous peoples in Louisiana, educating the youth of New Orleans with work skills and knowledge beyond a classroom, working to battle climate change impacts on our coastline, preserving our cultural traditions and much, much more. It’s an inspiring group of leaders who doing the work every day to make this city a better place.
We also highlight the unique businesses, boutiques, art galleries and shops helmed by female owners and creators. These are some (there are simply too many to highlight) of our go-to places for culture, art and local ideas (plus top-notch shopping).
As always, we have lots more, from our Persona profile of the New Orleans Opera’s new general and artistic director Lila Palmer, our Style roundup with items to turn a night at home into a relaxing spa experience, dining news, humor, travel, recipes and more. It’s a jam-packed issue that we hope will inspire and entertain.
As we uplift these local women and their continued efforts to make a difference in our community and beyond, I like this quote I found from The Body Shop founder Anita Roddick, “If you think you’re too small to have an impact, try going to bed with a mosquito in the room.” May we all have the perseverance of a mosquito in the ear of people and circumstances trying to hold us back.
Enjoy and keep on buzzing!
