Veuve Clicquot, the prestigious champagne brand, has announced the six finalists for its 2025 Bold Woman Award. This award celebrates the achievements and contributions of female entrepreneurs who are making a significant impact in the fields of finance, sustainability, and social impact. These six women have been selected for their innovative ideas, determination, and unwavering commitment to creating positive change in their respective industries.
The Bold Woman Award was established by Veuve Clicquot in 1972 to honor the legacy of Madame Clicquot, who took over her husband’s champagne business and transformed it into a global success. Like Madame Clicquot, these six finalists have defied societal norms and shattered glass ceilings, proving that women have immense potential to drive change and create a better future.
The shortlist for the 2025 Bold Woman Award includes an impressive lineup of female entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds and industries. Let’s take a closer look at these extraordinary women and their remarkable achievements.
First on the list is Isabelle Kocher, CEO of Engie, a French multinational electric utility company. Kocher has been at the helm of Engie since 2016 and has spearheaded its transformation into a leader in renewable energy. Under her leadership, Engie has committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2050, a bold move that has set an example for other companies to follow.
Next up is Leanne Kemp, founder and CEO of Everledger, a global digital ledger that uses blockchain technology to track the provenance of high-value assets such as diamonds and wine. Kemp’s company has received numerous awards for its innovative use of technology to tackle issues of transparency, sustainability, and ethical sourcing in industries that have traditionally been plagued by fraud and conflict.
The third finalist is Thérèse Coffey, a member of the British Parliament and Secretary of State for Work and Pensions. Coffey has been a strong advocate for social impact and has worked tirelessly to support marginalized communities and promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Her dedication to creating a more equitable society has earned her widespread recognition and respect.
The fourth finalist is Mihaela Dragan, founder and CEO of Caravana, a Romanian social enterprise that empowers Roma women by providing them with employment opportunities and training to become tour guides in their own communities. Dragan’s organization has not only helped to break the cycle of poverty among Roma women but has also challenged negative stereotypes and promoted cultural understanding and acceptance.
Up next is Suzanne Biegel, founder of Catalyst at Large, a global consulting firm that specializes in gender-smart investing. Biegel is a pioneer in the field of impact investing and has been instrumental in driving investments towards women-led businesses and initiatives that have a positive social and environmental impact.
Last but certainly not least is Komal Ahmad, founder and CEO of Copia, a tech company that uses data and logistics to reduce food waste and fight hunger. Ahmad’s organization has distributed over 25 million meals to people in need and has also helped businesses save money and reduce their carbon footprint by diverting excess food from landfills.
Each of these women has made a significant impact in their respective fields and has shown what can be achieved with determination, hard work, and a bold vision. Their achievements have not only benefited their businesses but also society as a whole, making them true role models for the next generation of female leaders.
The winner of the 2025 Bold Woman Award will be announced at a ceremony in Paris, where she will receive a prestigious trophy and a year-long mentoring program with Veuve Clicquot’s senior executives. The award not only recognizes these remarkable women but also aims to inspire and support other women to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams and make a positive impact in the world.
Veuve Clicquot’s commitment to celebrating and empowering female entrepreneurs is commendable and serves as a testament to the brand’s belief in the power of women to drive change and shape a better future. We congratulate all the finalists for their outstanding achievements and look forward to seeing their continued success in the years to come.