Happy International Women’s Day | Women I Admire

Hellooo, everyone! HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY. Wherever you are, whatever you’re doing, I hope you have been surrounded by positivity and happiness today. I think it’s incredibly important on a day like this to shower the women you admire with some much needed affection and praise – it’s too easy to forget to show our important people just how much they matter to us and let time just whizz on by. So, here’s a list of some women I greatly respect…

My Mum

Where else could I start on IWD than with the woman who literally gave me life?! I know everyone bangs on about their mum being amazing, but mine is pretty spectacular. She’s taught me so much and is ALWAYS there for me whenever I need her; no matter what ridiculous hour of the day I call, no matter how irrational or OTT I am being, no matter if I’m having a completely paranoid meltdown (because I’ve gotten more and more anxious as the years have gone by – thanks life), no matter whether she’s busy or feeling run down; she’s completely there and completely amazing. She’s kind, thoughtful, considerate and honest – which is exactly the kind of person you need in your corner. She always puts me and my brother first, she’s totally devoted to us, even as we attempt our way through adulthood! I feel people often misjudge her, even some close family members who, quite frankly, should know better, but I know her inside out and I can honestly tell you all; she’s magic.

Joan Didion

Her writing is simply sublime. There’s no other word adequate enough to describe the way she perfectly captures the time and place of her situation; raising important questions about social obligations and thoroughly exploring American cultures, whilst telling beautifully human stories. She’s timeless and her work is lyrical, creative and stunning.

Jessica Chastain

I’m a little bit obsessed with this woman. Her performances are electrifying; she is so completely convincing and powerful in every role I’ve seen her in, gloriously bringing to life a whole host of strong, female characters with class and strength. I admire her talent, ethics and drive hugely and basically want to be her – but who wouldn’t?!

Zoella

As an aspiring blogger and writer, it’s hard not to be in awe of Zoella and all that she has achieved. She’s generated an entire empire; publishing books, devising beauty products and creating an adorable lifestyle range, all before the age of 28. I think this is just the tip of the iceberg though and we’re sure to see more from her. I’m inspired by her constant desire to do more, to create more and to be more; I can only dream of achieving even a fraction of her success! I also think we’d be dead good mates so there’s that, too.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Her little book, We Should All Be Feminists, was adapted from her phenomenally successful TEDx talk and is one of the most incredible, inspiring and eloquent discussions on feminism I’ve ever read. She draws on her own personal experiences and strong understanding of what it means to be a woman in our current climate, to deliver a rousing and striking essay that leaves the reader feeling astounded and enlightened. She talks extensively about inclusion and awareness in such a relatable and logical manner, it is impossible not to be moved. Whatever your gender, please read this book and allow Adichie’s wisdom and intelligence into your heart and mind. Allow her to guide you in your approach to your fellow humans, because we really should all be feminists.

The Spectrum Sisters

Okay, so it’s no secret that I am a huuuuuge fan of Spectrum Collections, so how could I not be inspired by the brand’s creators? They’ve managed to create stylish, cool af beauty tools and accessories that are not only cruelty free and vegan, but they’re also really reasonably priced for the high quality and heavenly designs. Sophie and Hannah Pycroft started the business in their garage and through their hard work, determination and wonderful creativity, they’ve created a successful company that is major goals. They’re a complete inspiration to us all and I wish them all the success in the world.

Janet Mock

A fierce advocate for trans rights, Janet Mock is a force to be reckoned with. I adore her classy, stylish and intelligent approach to some of the major issues within our society. She is a pioneer for balance and equality in film and television for POC, whilst also seeking more representation for trans women within the beauty industry. “Trans rights are human rights” indeed and Janet Mock is fighting the good fight. She is insanely awe-inspiring and tbh, we could all learn from her.

My Friends

As you get older, your friendship circle does get smaller, which can be a little disheartening and upsetting – especially when once meaningful friendships seem to fizzle out and fade away. BUT the friends you’re left with are absolute golden and I am so lucky to have some incredible friends in my life who inspire me each and every day. They’re kind, considerate, caring, funny and they’re all so crazy different, and chasing after their own individual dreams and goals, that it’s utter magic to be around. They’re a beautiful support network and they make my life so much better simply by being in it. So a massive thank you to some of you absolute BABES: AB, CB, JB, CC, SD, EF, OH, RM, MT & HW.

There are, of course, a staggering amount of incredible women on this planet but this is just a small handful that I wanted to talk about today. Who are some women that inspire you? Let me know in the comments below!

Thanks for reading, folks!

Much love,

Jessa XO

All photos are my own unless otherwise specified