Leadership, at its core, is about seeing the humanity in others, noticing what is often invisible, and recognizing possibility where others see limits.

In my work documenting vulnerable communities around the world, I have witnessed extraordinary strength, resilience, and dignity, especially among women and girls whose leadership often goes unrecognized. True leadership is not defined by title or position, but by the courage to stand for human dignity, to protect the vulnerable, and to use one’s voice to create change.

When women lead, they bring empathy, collaboration, and a deep understanding of community. These qualities are not soft. They are powerful. They are essential to building a more just, compassionate, and sustainable world.

I am honored to support Jay Rosenzweig’s Rosenzweig Report on Women in Leadership, which for more than two decades has helped illuminate both progress made and work still to be done. The invitation before us is simple but consequential: to notice whose voices are missing, to elevate women’s leadership with intention, and to act in ways that ensure opportunity and responsibility are shared more equitably. When we choose to truly see women and value their leadership, we help shape a future where leadership reflects the humanity it is meant to serve.

–	Lisa Kristine, Humanitarian Photographer & Founder of a Human Thread Foundation