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Lupita Nyong'o
Academy Award-winning actress
The Kenyan star whose Oscar told every African child their dreams are valid.
The rise
Raised in Kenya, Nyong'o trained in theatre and film before her breakout role in 12 Years a Slave.
What they did
She won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, starred in global blockbusters, and wrote a bestselling children's book celebrating dark skin.
The full picture
She has spoken openly about colourism and the narrow roles offered to Black women, using her platform to widen them.
Why it matters
Nyong'o turned Hollywood's spotlight into a mirror for African beauty and ambition.
“No matter where you are from, your dreams are valid.”