They say that the children are the future, and our future has never looked brighter.
Zendaya, Malia Obama and Amandla Stenberg were all named on TIME magazine’s annual 30 Most Influential Teens list. Jaden Smith and “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)” mastermind Silentó also scored a nod.
With her wise-beyond-her-years wisdom, it’s easy to see why Zendaya landed a spot on the list. The 19-year-old Nickelodeon star has remained composed in the public eye (remember how well she handled Giuliana Rancic who said that her locs looked like they smelled like “patchouli and weed”?) and constantly emits body positivity.
“I keep it real,” the actress and singer told TIME. “I do what Zendaya does. I do what Zendaya feels like doing.”
25 Young Women Who Would Make Any Mother Proud
Hunger Games actress Amandla Stenberg, 17, has emerged as a voice for all young Black women. She made headlines earlier this year when her video expelling cultural appropriation in pop culture went viral.
Calling her a “cultural icon,” First Daughter Malia Obama was selected for her increasing status and influence. TIME editors pointed out that the world is eagerly awaiting her college decision, and after a photo of her wearing a Pro Era shirt went viral, traffic to Joey Bada$$’s Wikipedia page spiked to record levels.
What young women do you think deserve a spot on the list?