In a world of revolving tabloids, magazines, and blogs, people are often too distorted into something they certainly are not. Of course, we can never tell what’s real and what’s not. However, it is our job to ensure these women that they are worth more than what the tabloids say about them. These women are inspirational to me because of their work in the industry as well as their use of power outside of the industry to make a difference in the world. In case you forgot, here are 12 inspirational women you shouldn’t forget.

1. Oprah Winfrey

Besides the fact that she is an icon, a hero, a mother, and an activist, she had her own show on air for 25 YEARS. She gave out millions of dollars to important causes and worthy people –as well as the iconic “you get a car episode.” Then she created her own channel called the Oprah Winfrey Network and still continues to help share important messages for causes that she cares very deeply about. I’m basically with Josh Peck on this one –I LOVE YOU OPRAH.

2. Angelina Jolie

This may come as a surprise to you, but Angelina Jolie is more than her resting bitch face and ex-relationship with Brad Pitt. Angelina is a supermom of six children and is still standing strong as a single woman. Being in the movie industry for about 20 years, she’s been in and/or assisted in the making of 48 movies. She has received two humanitarian awards and continues to pursue efforts and justice for humanitarian issues.

3. Angela Merkel

I know what you’re thinking –why is this German woman on here? What has she got to do with anything? Well, Angela is the Chancellor of Germany. In fact, she is the first woman in German history to have held this position. She has been Chancellor for 13 years now and is still holding her ground. Rumor has it that she only ran for another term to keep Trump in check. From America to you, Angela, thank you for doing the job no one wants to do.

4. Michelle Obama

Before her and her husband Barak moved out of the White House, Michelle had an incredible run of being First Lady. Being the first African American First Lady, Michelle obviously had to make a good impression. Well, her impact on us was strong enough to make America fall in love with her and admire her strength and knowledge. In case you didn’t know, Michelle is actually a lawyer. You go, Michelle!

5. Janet Yellen

Janet is a hidden treasure of incredible women in the United States. She recently retired from being the first Chairwoman of the Federal Reserve, which is a huge deal. As an economist, Janet made the government aware of possible outcomes with certain bills, like your taxes, for example. Janet is the secret hero most Americans aren’t aware of. Janet, we thank you for your service!

6. Beyonce Knowles

You shouldn’t be surprised that Beyoncé is part of this list. She’s just a fabulous woman of color who is loved by the world. Who doesn’t call that power?

7. Rihanna

Though you may know her as the party girl, Rihanna is actually more than the music she makes. Besides her music bringing joy to others, Rihanna also joined forces with Prince Harry of England to bring awareness to AIDS, a cause close to this Barbados-born woman. She has also taken a break from music to create her own business, Fenty Beauty. This has changed the cosmetic industry for so many women of color, saying that they can actually wear makeup that accurately matches their skin tone. Though she may seem to be flying under the radar recently, Rihanna has been working hard to improve the world, little by little.

8. Lady Gaga

You may question Lady Gaga’s place on my list, but let’s take a minute to think about this. Lady Gaga came out of the gate blowing up Hollywood’s social norms. The classic meat dress, along with many other bold outfit choices, has taught an important lesson to the world: no one cares what you wear, what you look like, what your favorite color is. People should care about the person underneath the clothing, the personality and the heart of the person. That is a ballsy move, especially for anyone who wants to survive in Hollywood. So thank you, Lady Gaga, for your works in destroying social norms in Hollywood and all over the globe.

9. Malala Yousafzai

Malala is a gift from the heavens. She is the embodiment of perseverance and willingness to make change in the world. After being shot in the head by the Taliban, Malala has shared her wisdom and hopes of peace with the world, becoming a global icon. Malala is an activist for women, education, and peace. At the age of 20, I’m proud to have her as the youngest (and possibly the strongest) woman on this list.

10. Shamma bint Suhail Faris Mazrui

Shamma is one of the few women on this list who may not be well known, but should be. Shamma is only 24 years old, and has been appointed as the Minister for Youth in the United Arab Emirates in February of 2016. Not many people can say that they are the youngest minister in the world. And she wasn’t appointed for no reason. She is a woman to watch –I feel that she’s going to do so much more.

11. Emma Watson

Most recognize her from the Harry Potter as Hermione, but Emma is her own person –and made sure the world knows it, too. After being part of the franchise for 10 years, Emma left Hollywood to pursue an English degree from Brown University, which eventually became Worcester College of Oxford, England. Her career in Hollywood is no match for her activism. A UN Women GoodWill Ambassador, founder of the HeforShe campaign, and founder of a feminist book club, Emma has been consistent in her work in making the world a better place. Thank you, Emma.

12. Ellen DeGeneres

Finally, there is Ellen DeGeneres, a businesswoman and LGBTQ+ activist. Her career with television has spanned almost 20 years, most of which is her talk show “Ellen.” Ellen has since created her own record company (Eleveneleven) and production company (A Very Good Production) along with her own lifestyle line. Ellen also received the Presidential Medal of Honor from President Obama in 2016 for her charitable efforts within the United States. Ellen has a good heart, but people care too much about her sexuality. Well, if you’re one of those people, screw you. Ellen, you go, girl!

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