We continue appreciating those before us

I wrote about two outstanding and inspiring women in my previous blog: Mother Theresa and Susan B. Anthony. Today I will write about Mariam Makeba and Wangari Maathai.

Mariam Makeba (1932-2008)

Mariam Makeba, also known as Mama Africa was a South African singer who introduced African music to the western countries. Besides being a singer, she was involved in radical activity against apartheid, in the civil rights movement and black power. Mariam made a success of her music internationally while she was in exile despite of her personal life being a tragedy of injustice, domestic upheaval, exile and torment.

Mariam was confident enough to pursue her dream and purpose regardless of her circumstances. That is what it takes to leave a mark!

Wangari Maathai (1940- 2011)

You cannot enslave a mind that knows itself. That values itself. That understands itself.~Wangari Maathai

Wangari was an environmentalist, feminist, politician, professor and human rights advocate. She was a head of the Green Belt Movement which she founded in 1977. The mission of this movement was to plant trees across Kenya to fight erosion and to create firewood for fuel and jobs for women, the movement soon spread across Africa. She was awarded the Nobel Peace Price in 2004 for her contribution in environmental conservation, democracy and peace.

Wangari was a courageous and visionary woman. She empowered woman to take charge of their lives.

As I mentioned in my previous blog post, the list of such motivating women is endless, and we appreciate all of them! You can share your views and thoughts on other women who left a mark in the comments box below.