Forbes is now accepting nominations for its global 50 Over 50 list, honoring women over 50 who are redefining leadership, innovation, and impact across industries and regions. The program showcases women whose careers accelerate or transform in their sixth decade and beyond, proving that influence and achievement do not decline with age. Nominations are open worldwide across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and South and Central America.

Forbes 50 Over 50: Global Nominations Open for 2025

Overview

Forbes has launched its annual call for nominations for the 50 Over 50 list, a global recognition platform spotlighting women over 50 who are reshaping power, leadership, and cultural influence. Entering its fifth year, the list honors women who break age and gender norms while achieving remarkable accomplishments across sectors.

Why This Initiative Matters

The 50 Over 50 list challenges the outdated belief that opportunities diminish with age. Instead, it demonstrates:

• Women often reach peak impact after age 50

• Innovation is not age-bound

• Careers can be reinvented or accelerated later in life

• Leadership continues to grow across generations

• Global representation expands visibility and inspiration for women everywhere

This recognition helps shift societal narratives and encourages organizations to value the experience, creativity, and resilience of older women leaders.

Focus Areas and Key Themes

The Forbes 50 Over 50 initiative seeks nominees who exemplify:

• Breaking age barriers in business, culture, science, arts, and public service

• Reinventing or accelerating careers after turning 50

• Leadership in politics, finance, STEM, entrepreneurship, and social impact

• Women rising to top-tier roles across global markets

• Achievement despite significant personal or professional challenges

• Trailblazing contributions in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and South and Central America

Examples of Transformational Impact

Past honorees show the extraordinary possibilities of career growth after 50:

• Falguni Nayar (India) shifted from investment banking to launch Nykaa at age 50, later taking it public at a valuation of $13 billion and becoming India’s richest self-made woman.

• Christine Lagarde (France) became the first woman to head the International Monetary Fund at 55 and later the first female President of the European Central Bank, influencing monetary policy for 750 million Europeans.

Who Is Eligible?

Nominees must meet these criteria:

• Identify as women

• Be age 50 or older at the time of nomination

• Demonstrate leadership, reinvention, or significant career acceleration

• Have measurable impact in their field, community, or region

• Reside or work in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, or South and Central America

Ideal nominees include:

• CEOs, founders, and executives

• Scientists, researchers, and technologists

• Artists, authors, and cultural leaders

• Politicians, diplomats, and public-sector leaders

• Social entrepreneurs and nonprofit innovators

• Women who overcame substantial adversity to achieve success

How to Apply: Nomination Process

Steps to Nominate a Candidate

1. Visit the Forbes 50 Over 50 nomination page
   Follow the official online nomination form.

2. Provide nominee information
   Include name, age, region, field, and current role.

3. Describe her accomplishments
   Highlight career reinvention, leadership achievements, measurable results, and societal impact.

4. Explain why she should be recognized
   Provide clear examples of influence, innovation, or resilience.

5. Submit supporting links
   Add articles, press coverage, awards, or portfolio materials where relevant.

6. Submit before the deadline
   Late nominations may not be considered.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting nominees under age 50

• Providing vague achievements without evidence

• Excluding region or field details

• Overlooking personal reinvention stories that strengthen the nomination

• Not including links or documentation that validate accomplishments

FAQ

1. Who can submit a nomination?

Anyone—colleagues, family members, organizations, or individuals—may nominate a candidate. Self-nominations are also allowed.

2. Does the nominee need international recognition?

No. Impact at local, regional, or national levels is equally valued.

3. Is there a fee to nominate someone?

No. Nominations are free.

4. Can previous nominees be submitted again?

Yes, especially if their impact has grown since the previous nomination.

5. Do nominees have to be active in traditional professional roles?

No. Community leaders, creators, activists, and social innovators are welcome.

6. Are retirees eligible?

Yes, if they are making significant contributions or impacts after age 50.

7. Is global representation important?

Yes. Forbes is specifically seeking nominees from Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and South and Central America.

Conclusion

The Forbes 50 Over 50 list continues to spotlight the extraordinary achievements of women proving that leadership, creativity, and influence can grow stronger with age. This global call for nominations honors reinvention, resilience, and breakthrough accomplishments—celebrating women who redefine what is possible after 50 and inspire future generations to rise.