Girl Idols

In honour of Galentine's Day this coming Friday I thought I would put together a list of inspirational girls and women who I admire;

Kate Nash (for those that don't already know) is a singer, infamous for her 'girl gang' of fans. Not only is she an amazing singer, guitarist and songwriter but she also writes insightful lyrics tackling various important issues. She was recently dropped by her record label and now become an independent artist which is hard work. I love how she fights for women in the music industry, showcasing the discrimination and prejudices which are so deeply embedded. One of my favourite of her songs, 'Rap For Rejection', includes a story in which she looks for cool music magazines to find that they are only sold in the 'men's section'. This is just one of the ways in which she portrays the sexism in society.

Germain Greer was one of the most important feminist voices of the mid 20th century. Germain describes her goal as 'liberation for women' and the positive acceptance of gender differences. She has written many feminist books including most famously 'The Female Eunuch'. She has always been a controversial character due to her strong opinions but I admire her persistence and self-belief.

Lady Gaga might be someone you would not expect to be in this list because you may think she shows too much skin or is just too wild. The thing that differentiates Gaga from you average female singer/stripper is that she is always in control. Gaga does not do what she does for straight men but for herself, gay men and other women. Her lyrics, though usually set to loud club music, are often about alienation, the objectification of women and homophobia amongst other things. I love her because she has made her own success by being different and standing up for minorities.

Tavi Gevinson is the creator and editor of Rookie Mag; an amazing online magazine and at teenage girls. Described by Lady Gaga as 'the future of journalism', she has written about feminism, fashion and many other important topics since the age of 15. At the age of 16 her first book, 'rookie year book 1', had been published and she gave an amazing ted talk soon after. I think she is inspirational as she is an incredible writer who strives to give help and guidance to teenage girls everywhere.

Caitlin Moran (pronounced CATlin) is a columnist for the Times as well as a broadcaster and author. I have already managed to mention her at least twice on this blog as proof of my obsession. I read 'How to be a woman' about a year ago and have never looked back. I honestly think everyone in the world should read this book as not only is it insightful and full of interesting anecdotes but it is also hilarious. I have also seen Caitlin in a number of interviews which have only made me admire her more. She is a powerful, confident, funny and intelligent woman working in a male dominated industry.

Malala Yousafzai is an activist who campaigns for women's education in Pakistan. She is the youngest person (at 16) and the only girl to have been nominated for the Nobel peace prize. In 2012 malala was shot by the Taliban for her efforts but narrowly survived. She has quickly become incredibly famous and for good reason. I think she is amazing for standing up for Pakistani girls and their right to an education.

Finally Leslie Knope; the creator of Galentines day. Leslie is the main character (played by Amy Poehler) in the amazing and hilarious TV series 'Parks and Recreation'. She plays the deputy parks director of the Pawnee parks and recreation department. Leslie is an ambitious, optimistic woman who's main goal is to build and restore as many parks as possible. Some of her best quotes include; “I’m a feminist, okay? I would never ever go to a strip club. I’ve gone on record that if I had to have a stripper’s name, it would be Equality", and, “You know my code: hoes before bros. Uteruses before duderuses… Ovaries before brovaries.”

Happy (nearly) Galentines Day!