March 8th, International Women's Day, is an opportunity to highlight female figures who have marked history through their strength, determination, and commitment. Whether in art, politics, the fight for human rights, or culture, these women have left an indelible mark. Here are eight portraits of inspiring women, each of whom, in their own way, has changed the world.

 

1. Waris Dirie – The voice of women victims of excision  

Waris Dirie is a Somali activist committed to fighting female genital mutilation, a practice that is still widespread in some parts of the world. A former model, she has used her fame to denounce violence against women through her books, notably Desert Flower .

 

Why is she inspiring?  

·               She transformed her suffering into a fight, using her fame to promote women's rights.

·               His courage helped raise awareness of a practice that had long been taboo.

·               She founded the Desert Flower Foundation , which actively fights against female genital mutilation.

 

2. Simone Veil – A visionary politician  

A Holocaust survivor, Simone Veil dedicated her life to defending human rights and gender equality. As France's Minister of Health, she passed the law legalizing abortion in 1975, a historic turning point for women's rights.

 

Why is she inspiring?  

·               Her fight for abortion rights liberated generations of women.

·               She overcame the horrors of war to become a respected political figure.

·               His commitment to Europe and human rights remains a model of determination.

 

3. Gisèle Halimi – Women’s Lawyer  

Franco-Tunisian feminist, lawyer, and politician Gisèle Halimi has dedicated her life to defending women's rights and fighting injustice. She has notably defended women accused of illegal abortion and campaigned for the criminalization of rape.

 

Why is she inspiring?  

·               She was a pioneer of women's rights in France.

·               Her fight led to the recognition of rape as a crime and not just an offense.

·               She defended the most vulnerable, breaking taboos about the condition of women.

 

4. Marilyn Monroe – The icon behind the myth  

Marilyn Monroe embodied Hollywood glamour, but behind this image, she was a complex and intelligent woman, seeking to break free from the stereotypes imposed on actresses of her time. She founded her own production company to control her image and roles.

 

Why is she inspiring?  

·               She struggled to be recognized beyond her looks and her status as a sex symbol.

·               She broke the norms by creating her own production company.

·               Her legacy continues to influence popular culture and feminist struggles.

 

5. Brigitte Bardot – From star to committed activist  

An icon of 1960s French cinema, Brigitte Bardot chose to end her career to devote herself to animal rights. She founded the Brigitte Bardot Foundation, which campaigns against animal abuse and works to protect wildlife.

 

Why is she inspiring?  

·               She sacrificed her fame for a cause close to her heart.

·               She raised awareness around the world about animal protection, a fight that is still relevant today.

·               His commitment remained unwavering despite criticism.

  

6. Edith Piaf – The Voice of Resilience  

From humble beginnings, Edith Piaf became a legend of French song thanks to her talent and emotional intensity. Her voice and her songs, such as La Vie en rose , continue to resonate around the world.

 

Why is she inspiring?  

·               She overcame a difficult childhood to become an international icon.

·               His music is a tribute to love, passion and resilience.

·               She left her mark on history with her authenticity and strength of character.

 

7. Frida Kahlo – The artist of struggle and pain  

A Mexican painter with a tragic fate, Frida Kahlo transformed her physical and emotional pain into powerful works of art. She shattered the artistic and social conventions of her time, addressing themes such as femininity, motherhood, and suffering with a rare brutality and honesty.

 

Why is she inspiring?  

·               She used art to express her suffering and assert her identity.

·               She dared to talk about taboo subjects in a patriarchal society.

·               Her style and independence make her an icon of feminism.

 

8. Jane Birkin – Committed elegance  

A well-rounded artist, Jane Birkin is known for her acting and singing career, as well as for her humanitarian work. She has used her fame to champion causes such as migrant rights and the fight against AIDS.

 

Why is she inspiring?  

·               She has always known how to combine elegance and social commitment.

·               She has never been afraid to take a stand on sensitive issues.

·               His influence extends beyond music and cinema to humanitarian causes.

 

Conclusion: An inspiring legacy for future generations  

 

These women, from diverse backgrounds, have left their mark on their era with their boldness, talent, and commitment. Each, in her own way, paved the way for greater freedom and equality for future generations. On this International Women's Day, let us remember that inspiration and courage are timeless, and that it is up to each and every one of us to continue our fight.

 

At Nouvel Amour, these women inspire us every day. They inspired us to create a whole new category : WOMAN .

 

And you, which women inspire you?