On the evening of November 4, 2025, New York City’s iconic Plaza Hotel played host to the prestigious Women of the Year Awards, celebrating an extraordinary group of female leaders who are making significant impacts across various fields, including business, arts, sports, and community leadership. The event, a shining testament to female empowerment, gathered a diverse array of honorees who represent the very best in their respective industries.
The honorees of the evening included celebrated actress Demi Moore, who has long been a trailblazer in Hollywood, beauty industry mogul Pat McGrath, whose innovations have reshaped the world of cosmetics, children’s media pioneer Ms. Rachel, and the players of the WNBA as a collective, recognizing their efforts not just on the court but also their contributions to activism and social justice. The award ceremony was hosted by sisters Brooks Nader and Grace Ann Nader, who brought a personal touch to the evening’s theme of “sisterhood—both biological and chosen.”
The event was a dazzling affair, featuring red-carpet interviews, live performances, and exclusive behind-the-scenes access through a special livestream, allowing viewers worldwide to be part of the celebration. Organizers emphasized that the aim of the evening was to spotlight “trailblazing women who’ve made significant impacts in their fields,” ensuring that their stories and achievements reached a broader audience beyond those in attendance at the ballroom.
A notable aspect of the ceremony was the selection of honorees, which reflects a growing shift in how female achievement is recognized. This year’s honorees exemplify a move away from traditional solo celebrity recognition to a focus on collective achievement, as seen with the WNBA’s collective honor. It also highlighted the expanding scope of the awards, with a wider representation of women leaders who have made significant contributions not just in entertainment, but across multiple sectors, including business and social advocacy.
Commentators observed that the evening underscored the growing influence and importance of female leadership in shaping culture, business, and society. The recognition of diverse and multifaceted women who excel in various fields speaks to a broader cultural shift toward acknowledging the wide-ranging impact that women have in reshaping the world around them.
The Women of the Year Awards, through its glamorous celebration of success and empowerment, reinforced the message that female leadership is not just about being in the spotlight—it’s about creating lasting change, whether on the global stage or within local communities. As the event wrapped up, it was clear that the recognition of these women, and their collective contributions, is an indication of the cultural moment we are in: one where women’s voices and leadership are more important than ever.