As one of the most tenacious Hollywood actresses around, Jada rarely sways from her beliefs. Don’t believe us, check out her resume.
02
Michelle Obama
Being the First Lady of the United States can’t be easy. Michelle Obama exudes the kind of confidence and ambition every woman wishes she could.
03
Oprah
You couldn’t be the world’s richest Black woman without being tough, when necessary, and compassionate, when the time calls for it.
04
Mary J. Blige
A tough background didn’t stop MJB from reaching the top where she uses her story to heal others.
05
Queen Latifah
From rapper to Oscar-nominated star, Queen Latifah did it all with class and lots of sticktoitiveness.
06
Jennifer Hudson
Two years after her mother, brother and nephew were brutally killed, Jennifer Hudson still found a way to start anew.
07
Nicki Minaj
On wax and in real life, this Queens-bred femcee takes no prisoners.
08
Rihanna
After the Chris Brown incident, Rihanna continued living her life out loud, and didn’t ask for anyone’s pity.
09
Whoopi Goldberg
We can always count on Whoopi to go with her beliefs rather than what everyone expects her to.
10
Tyra Banks
Not content with just being a pretty face, Tyra is slowly building her own media empire.
11
Mo’Nique
Whole essays have been written about her unshaven legs and unconventional ways, but Mo’Nique won’t budge, always proclaiming to us all that she is who she is. Take it or leave it.
12
Lauryn HIll
Criticized for everything from her six children to her relationship with Rohan Marley, Lauryn Hill still maintains her dignity and does what we love her for: make music that inspires.
13
Shonda Rhimes
As the only Black woman to oversee three shows on primetime television, Shonda Rhimes is a powerhouse in Hollywood.
14
Corinne Bailey Rae
Corinne gracefully picked up the pieces after her husband’s untimely death in 2005.
15
Naomi Campbell
Though she has rubbed more than a few people the wrong way, Naomi Campbell sticks to her guns.
16
Halle Berry
This Oscar winner has used her experience with domestic abuse to help other women get out.
17
Star Jones
From “The View” to “Celebrity Apprentice,” Star Jones always spoke her mind. Don’t think this former prosecutor is going to let anything stop her from speaking her peace.
18
Terry McMillan
She survived public humiliation when her husband revealed he was gay and still kept her head up.
19
Patti LaBelle
You don’t get to enjoy over five decades in showbiz by being a pushover. Ms. Patti is the definition of fierce, fun and fabulous.
20
Maya Angelou
Angelou survived an abusive childhood, Jim Crow, and many personal failures to come out on top as one of America’s treasured authors.