As difficult as it was to keep Oprah Winfrey and Michelle Obama from sneaking up on this list (their influence goes without saying), it was also just as easy to find other women who inspire us in other ways. Through philanthropy to just being downright fabulous, these five women inspire us to be better. From Beyonce Knowles’ tenacious work ethic to Jada Pinkett’s boost for self-expression, it’s always a delight to see women who are encouraging and empowering (in this article, we’ll just refer to them on a first-name basis).
Beyonce
There can be much said about Beyonce’s talent. A singer, songwriter, and dancer, the 29-year-old is the epitome of dedication and hard work. Not to mention, somehow she manages to stay out of headlines unless its a slow day in the gossip world and a totally false rumor manifests. She works hard and is genuinely dedicated to her craft. Her songs scream female empowerment and she gives them to us when we need them the most (just think about where you were in your life when “Single Ladies” came on the radio! Hello? Alright, now). Although, some would love to consider her a diva with antics, she is, instead, a woman who works hard and takes her craft seriously. She still seems to have the humble Texas spirit but is a superstar in her own right.
Liya Kebede
Besides being a natural beauty, Ethiopian supermodel Liya Kebede has dedicated herself to helping mothers and their children. Creating the Liya Kebede Foundation to ensure that all women have access to live-saving healthcare, no matter where they live, Liya’s philanthropic deeds have saved the lives of women worldwide.
Alicia Keys
Besides being super-talented, Alicia Keys’ passion transcends from music to charity. Keys is the ambassador for ‘Keep A Child Alive’, and has traveled to countries such as Uganda, Kenya, and South Africa to sustain the lives of African children. She is also a spokesperson for Frum Tha Ground Up, a charity dedicated to inspiring and motivating American youths to achieve success on all levels.
Mary J. Blige
We’ve watched Mary grow. For some, she’s been a big sister or friend. She’s coached us on love while not being afraid to show her authenticity and vulnerability. Besides founding The Foundation For the Advancement of Women Now (FFAWN) that aims to help all women gain confidence, Mary has also been active in M.A.C. Aids campaigns, supporting AIDS charity efforts.
Jada Pinkett Smith
A gorgeous, petite woman with a big personality, Jada Pinkett Smith doesn’t mind sharing her opinions or creativity with the world. Allowing her nine-year-old daughter Willow, to follow in her creative footsteps, Jada has many times said that she wants her daughter to understand the importance of individualistic creativity; and Jada is a poster child for that. Starting a rock band, Wicked Wisdom, Jada showed her versatility and surprised many with her love of alternative, hard-core rock.
Jada encourages all women to embrace their individual spirits.
