Purpose: This short essay aims to reflect on the global experiences women in education have had in becoming leaders as noted in the articles in this special issue on women's leadership. Design/methodology/approach: The essay draws upon relevant historical and contemporary literature about women in the professions and in the workforce. Findings: The case is made for women educational leaders from kindergarten through higher education to reshape leadership rather than lead as men have done in the past. Originality/value: The essay highlights this moment in history is seen as particularly promising for women leaders who are no longer anomalies, but who have not yet redefined leadership. (Contains 1 note.)