There’s no denying Angelina Jolie is not just a role model for her own children but for countless others around the world. This Hollywood icon has always championed the cause of women's empowerment, and having three daughters of her own—Zahara, Shiloh, and Vivienne—makes her advocacy even more personal. In the March issue of Elle magazine, Angelina opens up about her activism and shares the inspiring words she consistently imparts to her daughters. Her insights are nothing short of powerful and resonate deeply with anyone striving to make a difference.
During the interview with former Secretary of State John Kerry, the Oscar-winning actress revealed the advice she gives her daughters: “What truly sets you apart isn’t your appearance; it’s what you’re willing to do for others.” She continued, “Anyone can put on a dress and makeup, but it’s your mind that defines you. Discover who you are, what you believe, and what you stand for. And then, fight for others to have those same freedoms. A life of service is absolutely worth living.” Those words carry a lot of weight, don’t they?
Angelina’s Vision for Women
Angelina with daughters Shiloh and Zahara on the red carpet.
Read also:Carrie Underwood And Mike Fisher Are Thrilled To Welcome Another Baby Boy
In reflecting on the progress women have made, Angelina acknowledges the struggles that paved the way for today's opportunities. “I often think about the battles women fought to get us to where we are now,” she shared. “It’s not just about standing tall in our daily lives or educating ourselves on our rights; it’s about forming solidarity with women everywhere. Every action counts, and we must continue to uplift each other.”
A Conversation in Honor of International Women’s Day
Angelina met with John Kerry in celebration of International Women’s Day on March 8. She emphasized the importance of her daughters recognizing their privileges as Americans and the responsibility that comes with them. “My daughters enjoy the freedoms they have because they were born in America,” she explained. “But we’re at our best when we fight for others to have the same rights, especially women in other parts of the world.”
Angelina also highlighted the strides made in advancing women’s rights globally. “In some countries, discussions around sexual violence are no longer taboo. Leaders are expected to act, and over 150 countries have committed to ending impunity for war-zone rape,” she noted. “We now have specialized teams to collect evidence and support prosecutions. Last summer, I was in Kenya where UN peacekeeping troops received new training because, unfortunately, peacekeepers have sometimes been part of the problem. We’re also collaborating with NATO on training, protection, and increasing the number of women in the military. But there’s still so much more to accomplish.”
Raising Awareness Through Film
Angelina ensures her daughters are well-versed in the ongoing feminist movement. She has exposed them to various aspects of women’s culture, including bringing her two eldest daughters, Zahara and Shiloh, to the 2018 Annie Awards. They attended the event to support The Breadwinner, an Oscar-nominated animated film she executive-produced. The movie tells the story of a young girl in Afghanistan who disguises herself as a boy to support her family. Angelina expressed her pride in being part of such a meaningful project. “Millions of girls worldwide are forced to grow up too fast, working under challenging circumstances to provide for their families,” she said. “They possess an incredible strength that no child should have to bear. My hope is that this film sparks broader discussions and awareness.”
