Disney Channel star Zendaya Coleman has been making quite a name for herself in Hollywood these days. Unlike most celebs that spend their teen years on Disney and later face a very public meltdown, 19-year-old Zendaya has taken a different path. She has become an extremely prominent and influential figure in racial and gender equality movements. Despite her young age, she has become a trusted and revered spokesperson for serious social issues that affect society as a whole. If you haven't heard about her quest for equality and respect, allow me to shed some light on why she's basically our modern day Super Woman.
Barbie just dedicated a doll to her.
To honor Zendaya's pride and compassion for her culture, Barbie honored her with a doll that recreated her controversial look at this year's Oscars. Though the look should not have sparked any controversy, considering she looked beautiful in every aspect, many people commented on her 'nappy hair.' Namely, Giuliana Rancic of Fashion Police who said, "I feel like it smells like Patchouli oil... or weed." Instead of sitting back and accepting that some people are just too ignorant for their own good, Zendaya responded with a beautifully crafted Instagram post explaining how offensive that comment was to African Americans who already face so much criticism, especially for their hair.
She dedicated her birthday to helping those in need.
After taking a trip to South Africa with UN Aids to meet those suffering from AIDs and other diseases, Zendaya encouraged fans to donate to the kids and adults in need. For my 19th birthday I asked for cute boots and a new phone, yet here she is asking for people to be selfless for the sake of others.
She's a proud supporter of young women and girls foundations.
And the underprivileged children in general.
How many 18 year olds can say they sat on a panel with the Dalai Lama?
To celebrate the Dalai Lama's 80th, many well-renowned and well-respected panelists got together to commemorate his life and work. Zendaya was the youngest (and most excited) to be in his graces and discuss his work and philosophies.
At such a young age, she has accomplished more than most people will in a lifetime. Her outreach is incredible and her grace is something that deserves recognition. She fights her battles in the most well-educated, well-articulated way which is not something that can be said of most 19 year old girls. She has taken on a huge role in the fight for for women's rights, racial equality and the all around well-being of humanity. Zendaya is the kind of role model young women and young people alike should be looking up to and I'm thoroughly excited to see what she does next with all the well-earned attention she is getting right now.
