In a world where society tells young girls how to dress and act to be considered pretty, I felt the need to write about women who exemplify what being a woman should be. These nine beautiful ladies have the characteristics that every girl should strive to become. So, let’s take a look at why these women are so great.

1. Mother Mary

Religious or not people in general should strive to be like Mary. She lived without sin her entire life, and then one day an angel came to her telling her that God wanted her to have his son. Without question, Mary took on this huge responsibility. Being the mother of Jesus, Mary had a lot on her plate since he was really busy trying to spread the word of God and everything.

2. Betty White

Betty White is one of my personal role models. Seriously, not only has she been acting for 76 years, but she is also a huge Animal Rights Activist. White cares strongly about animals, especially dogs, and continues to act so she can afford to do all the charity that she does. She is one of a kind and surely a woman to look up to.

3. Audrey Hepburn

Audrey Hepburn is known for her classic beauty and acting career. She is an EGOT, which means that she won an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony. Only 14 people have accomplished this. However, what many people tend to overlook is that during WWII, Hepburn helped with the resistance even though her parents were basically backing the Nazi party. In her later years, she began her work helping children. Hepburn was a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF; traveling the world to help raise awareness for children in need. So, she was more than just a pretty face.

4. Amy Poehler

Amy Poehler is a funny, strong woman known for her roles on SNL and Parks and Recreation. She has also written a book called Yes Please, which is Poehler’s memoir. This book does give great advice also and should be on every woman’s reading list. Poehler has a way of telling it like it is with the right amount of comedy and sass. She wants girls to feel smart and confident and would be a great role model for anyone.

5. Serena Williams

Serena Williams is proof that hard work and dedication will get you very far in life. Sure she has a talent for tennis, but to become one of the world’s greatest female tennis players she had to practice--a lot. After becoming Pro in 1995, Williams became a household name. She is also one of the only two women to be listed in the “20 Most Marketable Sport Stars.” She is definitely a role model, especially for the young girls involved in sports.

6. Nicki Minaj

While I don’t always agree with some of her outfit choices, Nicki Minaj is still, in my book, a good role model for girls. Being one of the only GOOD female rappers of today, Minaj is amazing at what she does. She is showing girls that just because it is a male dominated field girls can still be at the top. Also, on numerous occasions Minaj has promoted education especially for young girls. Minaj has a great message that we should listen to, and that is why she is on this list.

7. Emma Watson

Emma Watson is known for her role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter series. Much like her character, Watson is a strong, intelligent woman who worked hard to get to where she is today. Even though she made bank with a decade on one of the most successful franchises and probably could have retired in her 20s, Watson decided she was going to get her degree and went to college. She had her personal goals and she went for them. They definitely picked the perfect Hermione.

8. Sadie Robertson

Now, I usually don’t look at girls who are younger than me to be role models for my life. However, at age 17, Sadie Robertson has proven to be a great role model for the young girls coming up. She is spunky, happy, and mostly importantly, staying true to herself. Being a reality TV star, she might have pressure placed on her to act a certain way, but that’s what so great about Robertson. She has her beliefs, and she sticks to them. She also wrote a book to help girls see the beauty in themselves.

9. Mary Broussard

This last lady is a little lesser known than the women listed above. However, that doesn’t make her any less important. Mary Broussard is my mother, and she is the definition of strong. Growing up in a poor family with six kids, my mother had all kinds of difficulties and struggles thrown at her. She has even had a few near death experiences, but what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. Now, a mother of three, my mom is so loving and caring. She is an ER nurse so she is constantly helping people. She is also quite funny. Honestly, my mom could be anyone’s role model because she is awesome and has taught me so much.

These women show that as long as you stay dedicated and work for your goals, you will get to where you want to be. We are all “strong, independent women who don’t need a man” to get us to the top!