What's Happening?
CNBC has announced the addition of Jacqueline Reses, Co-Founder & CEO of Lead Bank, and Patience Ball, Impact Chairperson at Apollo, to its Changemakers Advisory Board. This board is part of CNBC's annual
initiative to recognize women transforming business through innovation and leadership. Reses and Ball bring extensive experience in finance and entrepreneurship, which will be crucial in selecting the 2026 honorees for the CNBC Changemakers list. The list celebrates women who have made significant contributions to their industries, with nominations open until November 21, 2025. The selected honorees will be announced in February 2026, followed by a celebratory event in the spring.
Why It's Important?
The inclusion of Jacqueline Reses and Patience Ball in the CNBC Changemakers Advisory Board underscores the growing recognition of women's roles in reshaping business landscapes. Their leadership and insights are expected to enhance the selection process for the Changemakers list, which aims to highlight the impact of women in senior leadership positions. This initiative not only promotes gender diversity but also encourages companies to recognize the value of diverse leadership in driving innovation and economic growth. By spotlighting these trailblazers, CNBC is contributing to a broader movement towards gender equality in business.
What's Next?
Nominations for the 2026 CNBC Changemakers list are open, with the deadline set for November 21, 2025. The list will be announced in February 2026, followed by an event celebrating the honorees in the spring. As the board evaluates nominees, companies and individuals in the business sector may anticipate increased attention on gender diversity and leadership roles. This could lead to more initiatives aimed at empowering women in business, potentially influencing corporate policies and practices across industries.
Beyond the Headlines
The CNBC Changemakers initiative highlights the ethical and cultural dimensions of gender diversity in business leadership. By recognizing women who drive change, the program challenges traditional gender roles and promotes a more inclusive business environment. This could lead to long-term shifts in corporate culture, encouraging more companies to prioritize diversity and inclusion as key components of their strategic goals.
