Emma Watson proved that she was far more than just that “Harry Potter girl” when she was named the U.N. Women Goodwill Ambassador in 2014.
Her well-received speech at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City that September went viral. That day, she helped launch the HeForShe campaign, which urges everyone, including men, to fight for gender equality.
Women all over the world are trying to make a difference just like the Hollywood star. Romanian photographer Mihaela Noroc, for example, travels the world and photographs women to counter media stereotypes. Two mothers in the U.S. also launched a creative clothing line to combat gender stereotypes.
But, with more than 17 million followers on Twitter and over 29 million Facebook likes, Watson’s reach is far greater.
The English star, known for her role as Hermione Granger in the successful fantasy franchise, has now also made Time magazine's list of the Most Influential People.
“It’s especially refreshing to see men invited to join the fight for gender equality, as Watson pointedly did in launching the U.N. effort last fall,” Time writes. “It’s also refreshing to see her vigorous embrace of feminism, which Watson defines as 'the theory of political, economic and social equality of the sexes.' "
Watch a memorable moment from her popular speech below and please SHARE her powerful message!
