The first woman to occupy a leadership role in the United Nations was Muriel “Minnie” F. McKenzie. In 1948, she was appointed as the first female U.N. representative to serve in a leadership capacity within the organization. McKenzie's work contributed to shaping U.N. policies regarding women's rights and global cooperation. Her role marked a significant milestone for female representation in international diplomacy, paving the way for future women leaders within the U.N.