2013: Who runs the world? Girls!

Many of this year's most inspiring, heartwarmingand motivating storieswere those of women from all walks of life. When 64-year-old endurance swimmer Diana Nyad reached Florida's shores after having swum from Cuba — without a shark tank to protect her — she embodied the notion that you can accomplish your dreams at any age. And at just 16 years old, Malala Yousafzai became the most influential teenager in the world having overcome unbeatable odds. Hercourage in defying the Taliban, and her forgiveness of the group'salmost lethal attack against her, left many humbled and in awe. These stories are just a few examples of this year’s notable women whonot only affected history but also changed our world and us.