Janelle Monae is “Shining.” A relatively new artist, she is most known for her first single “Tightrope” released in 2010. But, she took the airwaves by storm and impressed her varied audiences with her unique style and signature pompadour. The beautiful Ms. Monae will be gracing the cover of the May 2013 issue of Essence Magazine. And, her Cover Girl campaigns have encouraged many young women of color to be true to themselves. She is a prime example of what The Worth Campaign is all about.
Why is Janelle Monae Shining?
Janelle Monae is more than just a pretty face and a great singing voice. She is also an advocate for young women. In 2012, Monae was awarded at the annual airing of Black Girls Rock!. While accepting the award, she delivered a strikingly emotional and magnetic speech that was felt deeply by all watching. In her message to young women, she delivered a wonderful speech of empowerment and support.
“Today, I wear my uniform proudly as a Cover Girl…I wanna be clear young girls, I didn’t have to change who I was to become a Cover Girl. I didn’t have to become perfect. Because I’ve learned thru my journey that perfection is often the enemy of greatness. Embrace what makes you unique, even if it makes others uncomfortable.”
Monae’s respect for those who came before her and her reverence for her role in the lives of young women are what place her on our roster of “Shining” women. She is a poised young woman who respects her influence in her community. And, as she passes her “baton” to those who follow in her footsteps, she strives to uplift every young woman’s unique abilities and character.
Monae truly embodies what The Worth Campaign is all about. Her directive about embracing your uniqueness echoes this organization’s messages of self-worth and steadfastness in the face of stereotyping. These powerful messages of empowerment reinforce individuality and work to suffocate the images of the crooked room.
Monae will be in New Orleans at the Essence Festival this July. And, she recently performed at Coachella. She has a new album dropping this fall called “The Electric Lady.” And, her newest single “Q.U.E.E.N.” will be released on April 22nd. With the number of great things Monae has done to date, only great things can come from her in the future. There is no doubt that Janelle Monae will continue to shine brightly for years to come. Luckily, we know she will be working to empower young women as she does it.
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