4 Female Activists' Wisdom to Follow in Life

Adichie is most notable for her TED talk, “The Danger of a Single Story,” where she explained the harm in only seeing one perspective or side of a person, leading to stereotyping an individual’s race, ethnicity, or identity. The single story brings awareness to defying stereotypes and understanding ignorance, as believing someone’s trait or identity explains or justifies their livelihood is a dangerous way of thinking that blocks out reality and diversity. Acknowledge everyone’s unique stories, but keep an open mind.

2. “I’m excited about the aging process. I’m more interested in women who aren’t perfect. They’re more compelling.” 

- Emma Watson

  “I truly, truly believe that beauty is something that comes from within.”

- Emma Watson

Choosing one out of these two bite size life lessons was impossible, and without a doubt, they go hand in hand due to their significance and meaning. Watson’s words relay the often-called “cliche” of how kindness is important, but never should it be deemed overrated or unnecessary. Empathizing with others and accepting that no one is perfect are the main keys to happiness and beauty in her point of view, and it should in your eyes too. 

3.“…We have to tell it like it is. Because if there are no positive things to tell, then what should we do, should we spread false hope? We can’t do that, we have to tell the truth."

- Greta Thunberg

In no circumstance should negativity and danger be hidden away because our fear is too great to act. If you still believe you don’t have a voice in any protest or cause, Greta Thunberg, a nineteen year-old, symbolizes how, as long as there’s a will to instigate change, there’s always a possibility of shifting global conventionalities. It requires discipline and ambition, but having such an attitude only depends on you, it’s as simple as that. 

4. “Some people only ask others to do something. I believe that, why should I wait for someone else? Why don’t I take a step and move forward?”

- Malala Yousafzai

Malala’s wisdom builds on the infamous statement of “If not us, who? If not now, when?” a persistent and unrelenting call for change. Her quote emphasizes the power of individuality and no matter how small you feel, you can still make a profound impact on the world. Malala embodies the ability everyone possesses to demand change for the good and advocate for natural rights. If there’s a cause that’s meaningful and resonates with you, begin in small ways, from working in a shelter, donating supplies to others who need them, or volunteering to maintain a local park. Hesitation and doubt are your only opponents in fighting for what’s right.      

To learn about more activists making an impact in our world, I encourage you to take a look at these Gen Z activists and these incredible 100 female activists. The four aforementioned activists are not the only accomplished changemakers in our generation. Anyone has the freedom to be among them, but only if you’re willing to denounce the injustice and improve our world.


By Katie Leslie