In a world where women have become CEOs of companies and are as much a part of the "mullah" world as much as the males are, why should the IMF be left behind? Christine Madeleine Odette Lagarde made this possible by becoming the first woman ever to head the IMF on July 5, 2011. Not only that, she also is the first woman ever to become the minister of Economic Affairs of a G8 economy.

A reputed labour lawyer, Lagarde made history in a lot of ways. She was the first woman to chair the international law firm Baker & McKenzie and was also ranked the best minister of finance in the Euro zone by leading dailies. Not surprisingly, she was also ranked the 17^th most powerful woman in the world by Forbes magazine.  

Lagarde's achievements have made her the best known face of France after President Nicolas Sarkozy.

What sets her apart from her fellow mates is the fact that she has risen to this position by her own talent and no political allegiance. According to Lagarde, if men are left to themselves, they make a mess of things. Hence, it's highly essential for women to be present at high places, be it politics, economy, etc. She alleges that the 2008 financial collapse was a result of "the aggressive, greedy, testosterone-fuelled mood of male-dominated, hi-tech trading rooms."

A lawyer turned politician, Lagarde regards her country and its people as her 'clients' and dedicates her life to them.

Meanwhile, all this professionalism doesn't kill the effeminate side of her. She loves cooking and gardening and loves her family as much as she loves her country. She is also a great swimmer and was a part of the French national synchronised swimming team in her teens.

She accepts that she had to fight throughout her journey in a male-dominated French world. But also accepts that it was worth it, now that she has achieved. She has been coming up with innovative ideas as the leader of IMF. She agrees that her current career responsibilities have left her roses and her jams ignored.

Meanwhile, her achievements have made it possible to accept that nothing - truly nothing - is impossible for the woman of the 21^st century. She inspires millions of females today who dream to be at the top in this male-dominated world.

Team MSN She