Quotes from amazing leaders who also just happen to be mothers

A series of inspirational words from woman in leadership roles around the world.

Jacinda Ardern, Prime Minister of New Zealand: “It takes courage and strength to be empathetic, and I’m very proudly an empathetic and compassionate leader. I am trying to chart a different path, and that will attract criticism, but I can only be true to myself and the form of leadership I believe in.”

Safra Catz, CEO of Oracle: “The most significant barrier to female leadership is the actual lack of females in leadership. The best advice I can give to women is to go out and start something, ideally their own businesses. If you can’t see a path for leadership within your own company, go blaze a trail of your own.”

Ruth Porat, SVP and CFO of Google/Alphabet: “Make sure you’re working for someone confident who is willing to take risks on you, gives you stretch opportunities, and is there to back you if things get tough. And do the same for people on your team.”

Tory Burch, executive chairman and chief creative officer, Tory Burch LLC: “My biggest challenge every day is to be a great mother and a great businesswoman.”

Meryl Streep: “The interesting thing about being a mother is that everyone wants pets, but no one but me cleans the kitty litter.”

Princess Diana: “A mother’s arms are more comforting than anyone else’s.”

Beyoncé: “Out of everything I’ve accomplished, my proudest moment, hands down, was when I gave birth to my daughter Blue.”