It can be tough figuring out who to look up to these days. So many people are in the spotlight for all sorts of reasons, and not all of them are great examples. But if you’re looking for some genuinely inspiring figures for the young girls in your life, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve put together a list of the top 10 inspirational role models for young girls, women who have made a real difference through their actions, their words, and their sheer determination. These are the kind of people whose stories can really stick with you and encourage you to be your best self.
Key Takeaways
- Ruth Bader Ginsburg: A Supreme Court Justice who fought for equality and justice.
- Malala Yousafzai: A Nobel Peace Prize winner advocating for girls’ education worldwide.
- Greta Thunberg: A young climate activist inspiring global action.
- Marie Curie: A pioneering scientist who broke barriers in a male-dominated field.
- Amelia Earhart: An adventurous aviator who defied expectations for women.
1. Ruth Bader Ginsburg
When you think about fighting for what’s right, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, or RBG as she’s known to many, is a name that immediately comes to mind. Born in Brooklyn, she had a real passion for learning from a young age. Her mom was a huge supporter, but sadly passed away just before Ruth finished high school. She went on to Cornell, where she met her future husband, Martin. After they married, life got even more demanding. Both Ruth and Martin decided to go to law school at Harvard, but it wasn’t easy. She was one of only nine women in a class of 500. And when Martin got sick, Ruth didn’t just attend her own classes; she went to his too, all while raising their young children. Talk about juggling!
After law school, finding a job was tough. Many law firms weren’t keen on hiring female lawyers back then. So, she started teaching at Rutgers Law and began focusing on women’s rights. RBG dedicated her life to tackling gender discrimination. She won a lot of important cases before President Clinton appointed her to the Supreme Court. She was only the second woman ever to serve on the court. Her passing in 2020 was a huge loss for the country.
Here are a few things that made her such an inspiration:
- Champion for Equality: She spent years fighting legal battles to ensure women had the same rights as men.
- Resilience in Academia: She excelled in law school despite facing significant challenges as a woman.
- Supreme Court Pioneer: Her appointment to the highest court in the land broke barriers and opened doors for others.
RBG showed us that with determination and a clear vision, you can challenge the status quo and make a real difference in the world, even when the odds seem stacked against you.
2. Malala Yousafzai
Malala Yousafzai’s story is one of incredible bravery and a deep belief in the power of education. Growing up in Pakistan, she saw firsthand how girls were denied the chance to learn, a situation that deeply troubled her. Her father ran a school, but when the Taliban took over, they shut it down, saying girls shouldn’t be educated. Malala, however, refused to be silenced.
She bravely spoke out for girls’ right to education, even when it was dangerous. In 2012, a gunman boarded her school bus and shot her. Miraculously, she survived. This event, instead of stopping her, made her voice even stronger. Now living in the UK, Malala founded the Malala Fund, a group dedicated to making sure every girl, everywhere, gets the education she deserves. Her work earned her the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014, making her the youngest person ever to receive it.
Her journey shows us that one person’s voice can make a huge difference. It’s a powerful reminder that education is a basic right, not a privilege, and that standing up for what’s right, even in the face of fear, can change the world.
Here’s what makes her such an inspiration:
- Unwavering commitment to education: She believes education is the key to a better future for girls and for society.
- Courage in the face of adversity: She didn’t back down when faced with violence and threats.
- Global advocacy: Through the Malala Fund, she works tirelessly to open doors for girls worldwide.
- Youngest Nobel Peace Prize winner: A testament to her impactful work at a young age.
3. Greta Thunberg
You’ve probably heard of Greta Thunberg. She’s the young climate activist from Sweden who really got the world’s attention. When she was just 16, she started skipping school on Fridays to protest outside the Swedish Parliament. Her sign read, "School Strike for Climate." It might sound simple, but it sparked a global movement called #FridaysForFuture.
Greta learned about climate change when she was pretty young, around 8 years old. The lack of action from world leaders really bothered her. For a while, it even led to her struggling with depression. But instead of giving up, she decided to do something about it herself. Since then, she’s spoken at major events, joined protests, and given TED talks. She even set up a nonprofit foundation to keep the #FridaysForFuture campaign going.
Greta’s direct approach and strong commitment have made her a prominent voice in the fight for our planet. She encourages everyone to take action, reduce their environmental impact, and push leaders for change.
Her activism shows that you don’t have to be an adult to make a big difference. She’s proof that one person’s voice, especially when it’s loud and clear, can inspire millions. Greta’s journey is a powerful reminder that young people have the ability to shape the future and demand a better world.
4. Marie Curie
Marie Curie was a scientist who really changed the game. She was born in Poland but moved to France to study, which wasn’t easy back then, especially for women. She ended up being the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, and get this – she won two of them, in different science fields! That’s pretty wild.
Her work focused on radioactivity, a term she actually coined. She discovered two new elements, polonium and radium. Seriously, think about that – discovering new elements! Her research wasn’t just theoretical; it led to practical things like X-rays, which have saved countless lives. Marie Curie proved that with enough curiosity and hard work, you can make huge contributions to science, no matter who you are.
Here’s a quick look at her major achievements:
- First woman to win a Nobel Prize (Physics, 1903)
- First person and only woman to win Nobel Prizes in two different scientific fields (Physics, 1903 and Chemistry, 1911)
- Discovered the elements polonium and radium
- Developed the theory of radioactivity
- Pioneered the use of mobile X-ray units during World War I
It’s easy to look at someone like Marie Curie and think of her as this distant genius. But her story is also about perseverance. She faced a lot of challenges, from financial struggles to sexism in the scientific community, yet she kept pushing forward. That kind of determination is something we can all learn from.
5. Amelia Earhart
Amelia Earhart was a true pioneer, a woman who looked up at the sky and decided it wasn’t a limit, but an invitation. Born in Kansas in 1897, she developed a love for adventure early on. She wasn’t content with the typical path laid out for women of her time. Instead, she set her sights on the clouds.
In 1928, she became the first woman to fly across the Atlantic Ocean, a monumental achievement that captured the world’s attention. This wasn’t just a joyride; it was a demonstration of skill, courage, and determination. She later earned her pilot’s license, becoming the 16th woman to do so. Earhart also played a key role in establishing The Ninety-Nines, an organization dedicated to supporting and advancing women in aviation. Her legacy is one of breaking barriers and showing that women could achieve anything they set their minds to.
Earhart’s life was a testament to pushing boundaries. She constantly sought new challenges, aiming for solo flights and longer distances. Her adventurous spirit and willingness to take risks, even in the face of danger, continue to inspire people today.
Earhart’s disappearance during an attempt to circumnavigate the globe in 1937 remains one of aviation’s greatest mysteries. Despite the tragic end, her life story is a powerful reminder to chase your dreams with all your might.
Here are a few things that made Amelia Earhart so remarkable:
- Pioneering Aviator: She wasn’t just a pilot; she was a record-breaker and an advocate for women in aviation.
- Symbol of Courage: She faced her fears head-on, taking on daring flights that few men, let alone women, would attempt.
- Advocate for Women: Through her actions and her involvement with organizations like The Ninety-Nines, she paved the way for future generations of female pilots.
- Inspirational Figure: Her life story encourages us all to be bold, pursue our passions, and never let anyone tell us our dreams are too big.
6. Amanda Gorman
You might know Amanda Gorman from her powerful poem, "The Hill We Climb," which she recited at President Biden’s inauguration. She was the first person to be named National Youth Poet Laureate, and she’s also performed at the Super Bowl. Beyond her incredible talent with words, Gorman is a dedicated activist, focusing on issues like racial and gender equality, and promoting youth literacy. She shows us that a career in poetry can be both impactful and widely recognized.
Amanda Gorman’s journey highlights the power of voice and advocacy. She’s a graduate of Harvard University and has already made a significant mark on the world stage. Her work often touches on themes of hope, unity, and the potential within young people to create change. She proves that young voices can lead and inspire on a global scale.
Here are a few things that make Amanda Gorman such an inspiring figure:
- Poetic Prowess: Her ability to craft moving and thought-provoking poems has captivated audiences worldwide.
- Activism: She uses her platform to speak out about important social issues, encouraging dialogue and action.
- Youth Empowerment: Gorman is a strong advocate for young people, encouraging them to find their voices and pursue their dreams.
Gorman’s rise to prominence demonstrates that passion and dedication can open doors to incredible opportunities. Her commitment to using her art for social good is a powerful example for young girls everywhere.
She’s a testament to the idea that words have power, and that sharing your perspective can make a real difference. You can find some of her most inspiring words in collections that highlight the dreams of youth.
7. Megan Rapinoe
You might know Megan Rapinoe from when she helped lead the U.S. Women’s National Soccer team to win the World Cup back in 2019. But she’s way more than just a great athlete. Rapinoe is a big supporter of women’s rights and has been really vocal about fighting for equal pay in sports. It’s pretty wild to think about, but in 2019, the women’s team actually sued the U.S. Soccer Federation because they felt they were being treated unfairly compared to the men’s team. Even though the women’s team was ranked number one in the world, they were getting paid way less than the men’s team, who were ranked much lower.
Rapinoe has said some powerful things about this, like, "Don’t settle for anything less—go for equal, go for more. Don’t accept any of these sort of antiquated and b.s. answers." She’s not afraid to speak up and push for what’s right, which is a pretty inspiring thing for young girls to see.
Here’s a quick look at some of her achievements:
- 2019 World Cup Champion: Captained the USWNT to victory.
- Olympic Gold Medalist: Part of the gold medal-winning team in 2012.
- Advocate for Equal Pay: Consistently uses her platform to fight for fairness in sports compensation.
Rapinoe shows us that using your voice, even when it’s tough, can make a real difference. She’s not just playing a game; she’s changing the rules for future generations.
8. Tarana Burke
You really can’t talk about the #MeToo movement without mentioning Tarana Burke. She’s the brilliant mind behind the whole thing, starting her work with survivors of sexual violence way back in 2006. That hashtag, #MeToo, has become a global phenomenon, sparking conversations and bringing people together. It’s pretty amazing to think one person’s idea could create such a massive shift.
Burke’s dedication goes beyond just the hashtag. She’s been a consistent voice for survivors and a champion for gender equity for years. She currently works as the senior director for Girls for Gender Equity in Brooklyn, New York, continuing her mission to support and uplift young people.
Her work has shown us the power of empathy and collective action in addressing deep-seated issues.
The impact of Tarana Burke’s activism is a testament to the importance of creating safe spaces for people to share their experiences and find solidarity. Her vision has helped to change how we talk about sexual harassment and assault.
Her commitment is a reminder that change often starts with one person’s passion and a willingness to speak out, even when it’s difficult. It’s about building a community where everyone feels heard and supported.
9. Emma Watson
You probably know Emma Watson best as Hermione Granger from the Harry Potter movies. She really grew up on screen, didn’t she? But her impact goes way beyond the wizarding world. After her acting career took off, she started using her voice for important stuff.
She became a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador in 2014, which was a big deal. This role led her to co-found the HeForShe campaign, a movement focused on getting everyone, especially men, involved in promoting gender equality. It’s not just about talking; it’s about action and making sure everyone has a fair shot.
Watson also started a book club called "Our Shared Shelf." It’s a place where people can read and discuss books about feminism and gender issues. It’s a cool way to learn and share ideas about equality. She’s shown that you can be a public figure and still care deeply about making the world a better place for everyone.
It’s easy to see someone like Emma Watson and think they have it all figured out. But she’s been open about her own journey and the challenges she’s faced. Her willingness to speak about these things makes her relatable and shows that even successful people are still learning and growing.
Even though she’s taken a break from acting recently, she’s still been busy. She became the face of a sustainable fashion line, showing that she cares about the planet too. It’s pretty inspiring to see someone use their platform for so many different good causes, from women’s rights to environmental issues. She’s a great example of how to use your influence for positive change.
10. Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton is more than just a country music legend and theme park owner; she’s a force for good. For decades, her music has brought joy, but her impact extends far beyond the stage and screen. Her philanthropic work is truly remarkable, touching lives in countless ways.
Parton has a long history of giving back. She’s supported scholarships, helped with wildfire relief efforts, and even contributed significantly to medical research. You might remember hearing about her generous donation that helped fund the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. That’s not all; in 2022, she gave a cool $1 million to support research for pediatric infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. It’s this kind of generosity that makes her such an inspiring figure.
Here are just a few areas where Dolly Parton’s kindness shines:
- Education: She’s a big supporter of scholarships, helping young people pursue their dreams.
- Disaster Relief: Dolly has stepped up to help communities affected by natural disasters, like wildfires.
- Medical Research: Her significant contributions to vaccine development and pediatric disease research show a deep care for public health.
Dolly Parton’s approach to giving is as warm and genuine as her music. She doesn’t just write checks; she actively seeks out ways to make a real difference in people’s lives, proving that success and compassion can go hand-in-hand.
Keep Looking Up
So, that’s our list of amazing women who are doing cool things and making a real difference. It’s pretty clear that you don’t have to be famous or have a ton of followers to be someone worth looking up to. These women, whether they’re scientists, activists, athletes, or artists, show us that hard work, kindness, and standing up for what you believe in can really change things. It’s a good reminder for all of us, young girls included, that we can all aim to be a little bit like them. Find the people who inspire you, learn from their stories, and remember that you’ve got your own path to walk and your own impact to make.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are role models important for young girls?
Role models show young girls what’s possible. They offer examples of strength, kindness, and determination, helping girls believe in themselves and their dreams. Seeing successful women in different fields can inspire girls to explore their own interests and work towards their goals.
What qualities should a good role model have?
A good role model is someone who is brave, kind, and works hard. They might be known for their achievements, but they also show good character. They don’t have to be perfect, but they should be someone who tries their best and stands up for what’s right.
Can role models be found outside of famous people?
Absolutely! While famous figures can be inspiring, role models can also be teachers, family members, coaches, or even friends. Anyone who shows you positive qualities and encourages you to be your best self can be a role model.
How can I find my own role models?
Think about what you admire in others. Do you like people who are creative, smart, or passionate about a cause? Read books, watch documentaries, or pay attention to people around you. You might discover someone whose story really speaks to you.
What if a role model makes a mistake?
Everyone makes mistakes. It’s important to remember that role models are human, too. Instead of being discouraged, you can learn from their mistakes and see how they handle challenges. It shows that overcoming difficulties is part of life.
How can I be a role model myself?
You can be a role model by being true to yourself, treating others with respect, and pursuing your passions. Even small acts of kindness and courage can inspire those around you. Share your positive experiences and encourage others to believe in themselves.
