Black women have been the blueprint for just about everything. From music to fashion and everything in-between, we are constantly giving flowers to Black women of the past and present. Today, we recognize the 10 black women that are fighting to make the world a better place and inspiring us to be our best selves.
1. Lizzo
Don’t be mad because she’s got the juice! Bopstar, Lizzo has been blowing up social media with all of her upcoming projects. From her hit reality show on Amazon Prime, Lizzo’s Watch Out for the Big Grrrls, to her upcoming single “It’s About Damn Time”, Lizzo has been a busy bee. Recently, Lizzo released her new shapewear line Yitty. Aside from all of her accomplishments, we want to give Lizzo her flowers for her consistent activism for body positivity and inclusivity in the entertainment industry.
2. Bay Davis
Bay Davis is a trans-Afro-Latina poet, tattoo artist, and activist. Davis is the founder of Porch Poetry, an open-mic event for South Central community members to share their stories and crowdfund for each other amidst social and economic issues in LA. Through her foundation, Bay Davis hopes to inspire and create space for underprivileged BIPOC (Black Indigenous People of Color) throughout LA. Davis’s activism and powerful poetic prowess has garnered the attention of thousands, including singer-songwriter SZA. Davis has become a prominent voice in the LGBT+ community for speaking about her experiences as an Afro-Latina transwoman and fighting for trans inclusivity in the workforce.
3. Mikhaela Jennings
Mikhaela Jennings, aka Khaenotbae on TikTok, is not only known for her infectious catchphrases but for her high self-esteem, interesting mukbangs, and intellectual banter. Although she’s known for being comical, Jennings also uses her platform to bring awareness to historical misinformation and current social issues. Jennings is a well-rounded and intuitive Black woman that has inspired many to live their best lives unapologetically.
4. Simone Slater
Everyone say heeyyy Ms. Slater! Simone Slater, aka Ms. Slater, is a Kindergarten teacher whose TikToks have become a favorite on social media. In 2020, Slater went viral for her TikToks broadcasting witty conversations with her students and heartwarming teaching moments. Slater’s platform shows the pros and cons of being a teacher. Slater’s raw revelations have inspired many to become teachers and have a higher respect for educators. Simone Slater also has a Youtube channel where she gives teaching, skincare, and lifestyle advice.
5. Kelly Augustine
You should definitely be familiar with fashion and celebrity stylist, Kelly Augustine. Kelly Augustine is known for her flavorful sense of style, and activism for inclusivity in the fashion industry. As a stylist, Augustine’s work has been featured in prominent magazines like Vogue, Vanity Fair, The New York Times, and Forbes. Augustine has styled celebrities like Danielle Brooks and Gabourey Sidibe. Augustine also has her own styling company called Styled by KAB. Kelly Augustine is the real embodiment of the phrase “Ms. Put-It-On”.
6. Courtney Quinn
Quirky cutie Courtney Quinn is a fashion content creator that everyone should know about! Quinn is known for her very bold and colorful style, Disney cosplay, and activism. Quinn worked for brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Coach, and Kate Spade before pursuing her own fashion career with her blog and media company, Color Me Courtney. Color Me Courtney promotes self-confidence, inclusivity, and individuality. In her free time, Courtney Quinn mentors Black creatives as a way to bring more diversity to the fashion and entertainment industry.
7. Monaleo
Monaleo is a lyrical talent you should familiarize yourself with. The 20-year-old rapper has been popping all over social media with hit songs “Beating Down Yo Block” and “We Not Humping” playing nonstop. Aside from being an entertaining talent, Monaleo has become the epitome of women’s empowerment. Throughout her social media, Monaleo constantly goes out of her way to show love to all Black female rappers and supporters. Monaleo’s grit and vibrant spirit makes her one of the most inspiring women to watch in 2022.
8. Alisha Brooks and Elizabeth Austin-Davis
We cannot give enough flowers to the creative minds behind The Black Hair Experience, a selfie museum that celebrates Black hair. Visual artist Alisha Brooks and world-renowned photographer Elizabeth Austin-Davis are two visionaries that know the importance of highlighting the beauty of Black women and black hair. Brooks and Austin-Davis opened the selfie museum in November of 2020 in Atlanta. Since then, they’ve opened spots in Dallas, D.C., and Los Angeles. These inspiring Black women have made Black women feel validated, celebrated, and beautiful.
9. Tomi Adeyemi
Tomi Adeyemi is a Nigerian-American author that understands the importance of representation, especially for young Black girls. Adeyemi’s young adult novel, Children of Blood and Bone, has caught the attention of thousands and has even led her to secure a movie deal, but it wasn’t easy. In 2020, Lucasfilms wanted to make Children of Blood and Bone into a movie, but wouldn’t give Adeyemi creative rights. In mid-January of this year, Paramount Pictures acquired filming rights for the novel while allowing Adeyemi to write the script and serve as executive producer. If there’s one thing we can learn from Tomi Adeyemi, it is to stand your ground!
10. Ketanji Brown Jackson
All rise for newly-confirmed Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, Ketanji Brown Jackson! Jackson is a fearless and powerful force whose presence intimidates the insecure. Ketanji Brown Jackson’s work history is very long considering she was a law clerk, public defender, and a federal judge. As an Obama appointee for the U.S. Sentencing Commission, Jackson helped rewrite guidelines to reduce recommended penalties for drug-related offenses. Jackson is an inspiring Black woman to watch because she is steadfast, incredibly intelligent, and a go-getter.
Black women are the backbone and pioneers of society. We are resilient, multifaceted, talented, and beautiful. The 10 inspiring Black women listed represent all of those things. They are taking charge and making changes within our community to make the world a better place.
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