The Unbelievably Inspiring Career of Yara Shahidi
Like seriously, how can I be her?
by MADISON MANCZKO ★ MARCH 23, 2022
Yara Shahidi is quite possibly the most accomplished young woman in Hollywood right now. I mean, can your favorite celeb say they’re an actress, activist, model, and entrepreneur all before the age of 23? I didn’t think so. Not only is her style to die for, but she uses her platform in amazing ways (you better start making space for her on your vision board).
Credit: Elle
You might know Shahidi from her work on the ABC sitcoms “Black-ish” and “Grown-ish,” where she plays the spoiled, stylish it-girl, Zoey Johnson. While I doubt anyone would call Shahidi spoiled, she definitely shares Zoey’s love for fashion! This is the role that launched her into the public eye, but she then went on to win a Teen Choice Award for her starring role in teen drama The Sun is Also a Star.
Credit: InStyle
Most recently, Shahidi acted as the keynote speaker for the Cartier women’s initiative program, which she has been working with for two years. This program aims to support female entrepreneurs by encouraging success and empowerment in their businesses. In her speech, Shahidi spoke about the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, creating gender-equal environments in STEM careers, and the significance of using fashion for self-expression.
Credit: WhoWhatWear
This wasn’t Shahidi’s first time fighting for a good cause. When she was 18, she created an organization called We Vote Next, which encourages young adults to get involved in politics. I can guarantee that when I was 18, I wasn’t doing anything nearly as impressive.
Credit: We Vote Next
Let’s talk about something even more mind-blowing: Shahidi is a Harvard student studying Sociology AND African American studies. Yes, in the middle of public speaking, leading an organization, and acting, she’s also hitting the books at one of the most prestigious schools in the country. If that’s not enough for you, she also applied to Stanford and Yale and got into both. Can you say girl boss?!
Not to mention, Shahidi is also heavily praised for her style evolution. She’s known for being both a street-style icon and an award show stunner. Who could want anything more? She has never been afraid to rock bold colors or unique patterns, making it apparent how much she uses fashion to show her personality (I’m adding her to my Pinterest board RN).
Credit: Pinterest
I would argue that Yara Shahidi is SUPER underrated given her exhaustive list of accomplishments. Hollywood is full of negativity, and good role models are rare, to say the least. That’s why it’s so important that women like Shahidi are celebrated. Young people need strong women they can look up to. She truly does it all and inspires young women to do the same. Celebrities: take notes.
Cover Photo Credit: Pinterest