Classical ballerinas traditionally have a very specific physique, a certain mold they all must physically conform to in order to be successful in the professional world of ballet. A dancer’s athletic and graceful build is a product of combined natural ability and extensive training, making it extremely challenging to pursue dance as a career. In the recent Underarmour campaign, “I will what I want,” Misty Copeland is highlighted as an inspiration to women for the persistent ambition that has earned her a soloist spot in the American Ballet Theatre. 

According to most ballet companies, Copeland’s height and curves put her at a “disadvantage” among ballerinas. She also did not begin formal training until the age of thirteen – a relatively old age to start. Despite these obstacles, her determination never wavered. Because of her perseverance and accomplishments, she now serves as a role model to all young females.   Misty Copeland’s Underarmour campaign and other campaigns like hers have become a viral phenomenon, proving that these positive displays of strong, empowered women resonate with their intended audience. 

In today’s society, it is extremely important for young girls especially to understand that the amount of success they are capable of achieving is limitless. These ads successfully promote confident women who are willing to fight for their dreams, as does Gamma Phi Beta’s philanthropic organization, Girls on the Run. Just like Copeland’s campaign, Girls on the Run provides role models for young girls so they can grow to become more confident and empowered.   

Most females have dealt with insecurities at some point in their life, and Girls on the Run is an organization that helps elementary and middle school girls by teaching them that they are capable of achieving any goal. They do this by training for a 5k race held at the end of a 10-12 week session, during which they also are mentored and given positive lessons on how to handle life experiences. This program is designed to positively impact a young girls life by giving them a tangible goal to achieve and helping them to achieve that goal in an uplifting environment.      

The reason why Underarmour’s ads and others like it are receiving so much positive attention is because people recognize the need for more confident women. On average, women still receive lower annual salaries compared to men, and if more girls were taught what Girls on the Run teaches, it could be enough to fill that gap. It is also extremely important for young women to recognize how beautiful strong women like Misty Copeland are so they can have a strong female role model that they want to strive to imitate. With the media and programs like Girls on the Run, hopefully young girls will be taught that they are capable of greatness. Girls can run the world; they just need a push in the right direction.