At just 16 years old, Amandla Stenberg is proving that she is the perfect role model for young girls. While most people recognize her as Rue from The Hunger Games, the rising star is proving that her abilities aren’t limited to acting. Named after the Zulu word for “power,” Amandla is certainly living up to the title! Here are a few reasons why we think she’s the ULTIMATE role model:
1. She’s not afraid to speak her mind, even if it means facing backlash and criticism. As a person who is in the public eye, Amandla is refreshingly honest and bold in voicing her opinion on controversial issues. “If I’m receiving hate about something it must mean that I’m saying something that’s important,” she says.
2. She utilizes social media as a tool for social justice and awareness. If you browse through Amandla’s various social media accounts (Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr), you’ll notice that she frequently posts her opinion of current events, weighing in on a variety of subjects including police brutality, race issues and animal cruelty. A few months ago, she uploaded a school project on tumblr titled, “Don’t Cash Crop My Cornrows.” Shedding light on the topic of racial appropriation, her video quickly went viral.
3. She is an advocate for encouraging girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math. Last weekend, Amandla participated as a celebrity co-host for ComEd’s Icebox Derby Race Day. Comprised of 30 teens and 6 recycled refrigerators, the competition aimed to motivate girls and help them realize their true potential in STEM fields. “So excited to be here cheering on the girls at #TheIceboxDerby! Go teams!” Amandla tweeted.
4. Despite balancing numerous projects, Amandla is focused on pursuing her education. In a recent interview with the Huffington Post, Amandla revealed her plans to hopefully study film and psychology at NYU. “I want to make projects that empower, specifically, young black girls,” she says. We personally find it hard to balance our school lives and our social lives. Kudos to Amandla’s determination to excel in both realms!