Zahara Jolie, daughter of Angelina Jolie, is using her platform to advocate for significant global issues, particularly those affecting displaced women and girls. During a recent event, Zahara spoke out about the extreme challenges faced by women and girls living in displacement, noting that more than half of the world’s displaced population—over 120 million people—are women and girls who endure harsh conditions. Their suffering, she emphasized, is often compounded by gender-specific challenges.

At the Women in Training, Inc. annual mother-daughter brunch in Alabama, Zahara, 20, delivered a powerful keynote address. Angelina Jolie, her mother, was in the audience, proudly supporting her daughter’s advocacy. In her speech, Zahara expressed her gratitude for having her mother present during this important moment, stating, “I’m so thankful to have my mom here with me today. She’s growing up so beautifully.” Angelina, a longtime advocate for human rights and displaced persons, was visibly proud as her daughter took the stage to speak about her passions.

Zahara, currently a student at Spelman College, has had the privilege of working with many inspiring young women during her time there. She shared how being part of a community that prioritizes the upliftment of young women has greatly expanded her worldview. “I feel like my world expands as their world expands,” Zahara said, highlighting the importance of recognizing and empowering young women in society. Her experience at Spelman has deeply influenced her perspective on social issues, particularly when it comes to menstruation.

While attending Spelman, Zahara became aware of a widespread issue that affects women and girls globally—period poverty. At the college, where menstrual equity is an ongoing conversation, period products are provided in restrooms, a gesture meant to show understanding and respect for women’s bodies and their right to education. Zahara stressed that for women in many parts of the world, the absence of such support is a barrier to education. “Our bodies are not barriers to our education,” she stated passionately during her speech, emphasizing that access to menstrual products is not a privilege but a basic necessity.

Zahara’s involvement with the issue of menstrual equity extends beyond her college. The organization hosting the brunch revealed that Zahara immediately agreed to speak on the topic despite this being her first time addressing an audience outside of her academic circle. She spent considerable time researching menstrual equity and rehearsing her speech, including practicing during a mic check before the event. Her commitment to the cause was evident, and the audience responded enthusiastically with a standing ovation after her address.

The president of the organization noted that Zahara’s humility and passion were apparent throughout her speech. “She truly embodies the mission to end period poverty,” they said, highlighting her dedication to bringing attention to this often-overlooked issue. Zahara herself concluded her speech by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to speak on behalf of women and girls who struggle with period poverty. “I sit in this moment with you and feel a deep sense of gratitude, but equally a sense of purpose,” she shared. Zahara thanked everyone present for their ongoing efforts to combat period poverty and pledged her own commitment to continue advocating for women and girls everywhere.

Zahara’s involvement in this cause is just the beginning. It’s clear that she is dedicated to using her voice for change, with her mother, Angelina, serving as a strong influence and role model in her advocacy work. The event was a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting young women in their efforts to create a more equitable world.