Women’s History Month is a time to celebrate the power, resilience, and brilliance of the women who came before us. But more than that, it’s a reminder that we, too, are shaping history every day. From Madam C.J. Walker building an empire in beauty to Kamala Harris shattering political ceilings, women have been CEOs of their own lives long before it was a title.
But when I think about trailblazing women, I don’t have to look far—I see them in my own family. My mother,Cynthia McClain-Hill, Esq, is the definition of strength, leadership, 
and vision. A former President of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) Commission, a former Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Commissioner, and a former California Costal Commissioner, she has spent her career breaking barriers, advocating for justice, and making an undeniable impact in the community. Whether leading policy reforms, navigating complex systems, or ensuring equity in public service, she has always led with purpose, integrity, and the unwavering belief that progress is possible. Her ability to lead with both power and grace is something I carry with me every day.
Then there’s my cousin, Fanchon Stinger, a 15-time Emmy Award-winning journalist and national speaker. She has consistently broken barriers, from her early days in journalism to her current role as co-host of PBR Now. Her commitment to empowering young women led her to co-found Grit & Grace Nation, an organization dedicated to inspiring middle and high school girls to lead with courage, grit, and grace.
What’s the common thread among trailblazing women? Confidence, clarity, and the refusal to wait for permission. They saw possibilities where others saw barriers. They pivoted when necessary but never abandoned their purpose. Their stories remind us that success is built in the daily decisions—the bold choices to stand tall, to take up space, and to claim what is ours.
This month, take a moment to own your power. Look at the women who inspire you—not just the famous ones, but the ones in your life who lead with strength and heart. Let their stories push you to keep going. Because the legacy you’re building today will be the history someone else looks up to tomorrow.