It’s almost time for a day dedicated to appreciating all things women. The goal of International Women’s Day is to empower women and recognise their accomplishments, regardless of who they are and where they come from. To that end, we’ve compiled a list of 10 women who have defied the odds, inspired us all, and done so while looking stunning.
Kim Kardashian
With Kanye West’s continual attacks on her and her current partner, Pete Davidson, Kim Kardashian’s divorce with the billionaire rapper was an uphill fight. She is now officially single and has removed the name West from all of her social media accounts. Kim is a strong and resilient woman for having to confront her own challenges in front of the world, owing to Kanye’s disturbing antics.
Zendaya
A singer, actress, producer, model and fashion icon – what more could you possibly ask from Zendaya? She’s been the talk of the town for her outstanding performance as Rue in Euphoria, as well as being the youngest person to ever win the Council of Fashion Designers of America’s Fashion Icon Award. Due to her youth, we’re extremely excited over what she’ll bring to the table next (hopefully, more of her singing).
Simone Biles
Simone Biles is widely regarded as the greatest in the world of gymnastics, and with good reason, given her track record. The 24-year-old is the first woman in 42 years to win four consecutive US all-around titles, and she has the most global medals and gold medals of any female gymnast in history. Talk about iconic, right? What’s even more iconic is when your favourite gymnast, who is also afflicted with ADHD, speaks up about mental health concerns and raises awareness about how they affect not only athletes but regular people.
Jung Ho-yeon
Squid Game has been a global sensation and massive cultural phenomenon since its premiere. The actress Jung Ho-yeon, who played a North Korean refugee who participates in the dangerous game, captivated not only our attention, but our hearts as well. The actress/model was recently honoured with an Outstanding Performance nod at the prestigious SAG Awards, which is particularly impressive given that this was her first acting role.
Sharifah Amani
Sharifah Amani, Malaysia’s legendary actress, grabbed our hearts when she starred in Yasmin Ahmad’s film Sepet – a charming tale of blossoming love between an interracial couple that bucked conventions. Sharifah Amani is a fantastic actress who has received several awards, and justifiably so. Her enthusiasm for the arts has led her to advocate for local films, as well as the preservation of film industry workers’ rights.
Drew Afualo
Drew Afualo is a TikTok influencer who deserves to be recognised. She is an inspiring woman who goes against bigotry and hateful messages from men by making fun of them. Her exposure of these men is enough for us to realise how low our societal standards have sunk as regards the treatment of women. Despite her remarks against the bigots being comical, they encourage us to finally say “enough is enough” and we certainly don’t need men to tell us what to do and how to live our lives.
Selena Gomez
Selena Gomez has been battling lupus for a long time, and her journey is extremely inspirational for anybody dealing with a chronic medical condition. Despite suffering through such a traumatic experience, she has managed to create an empire with her makeup line, which has been praised by both her followers and celebrities. Selena Gomez’s Rare Beauty is a welcome exception to the rule that celebrity beauty lines often flop miserably. She is deserving of recognition for all of her accomplishments, from her acting career to her current position as a business magnate.
Han So Hee
Han So Hee is a South Korean model and actress who started out in modest roles in series like 100 Days My Prince. Her acting career has taken off, and she is now one of the most sought-after stars in the industry. Her portrayal of a daughter seeking vengeance for her father’s tragic death in the film My Name enthralled us all. Gorgeous and talented is where its at, and Han So Hee definitely comprises all of that.
Our Moms
Celebrating women begins with honouring our mothers, who have gone through all of the ups and downs of being both women and mothers. They are our most ardent supporters and face all of life’s challenges with a brave face. It wouldn’t be International Women’s Day without appreciating our mothers, who are the first people we see demonstrating what it takes to be women in our times.
YOU!
International Women’s Day is also about honouring you! You went through it, regardless of how great or tiny your accomplishments were, and you should be proud of yourself. It’s really difficult to be a woman, and the fact that we’re all still standing strong, despite all of the challenges we’ve faced, speaks volumes. The 8th of March is a day to honour women, and it’s also a day to appreciate you.
More on International Women’s Day? Read these:
They’ll Cut A B**ch: Badass Women In Movies You Gotta Watch On Int’l Women’s Day
XX Marks The Spot: 10 HBO Shows Featuring BOSS Women To Watch On Int’l Women’s Day
