Inspirational Women: Audrey Hepburn

There are so many ways people can be inspired, and I think we can always do more (particularly women) at supporting one another, praising one another and building each other up! For that reason, I have selected inspiration women to talk about. I hope this is an opportunity for everyone to learn something new about the women I am talking about and furthermore, to inspire you for your week ahead, to set goals, to work hard and to take every opportunity life throws at you! As this is all about celebrating women, I hope that we can also do as the spice girls did and support a bit of girl power! 🙂

With that being said, I couldn’t think of a better woman to mention then the one and only Audrey Hepburn.

“Elegance is the only beauty that never fades” – Audrey

I have a been a fan of Audrey Hepburn for quite a few years now, Breakfast at Tiffany’s was my first Hepburn film that I watched, and since then I have continued to collect her other work. Whilst I do love Audrey as an actress, it was reading about her and watching documentaries about her life that made me really fall in love with her further.

Audrey Hepburn didn’t have the easiest of childhoods, not only was her childhood greatly affected by World war II, but her father walked out of her life when she was still young. Audrey lived in England as she went to boarding school there from the age of 5, but was moved to Holland by her mother when the war broke out. They struggled, and in many interviews, Audrey talked about the fact that she could never forget how it felt, to be in that time, hungry and fearful for her life. (This influenced her many charitable contributions in the future). Audrey had been a training ballerina, but sadly due to the war, it rendered her physically incapable of pursing this, as well as the fact her teacher told Audrey she was too tall. Instead, Audrey took to modelling, and became quite comfortable in front of the camera. This is what later led to her first role, and how we have come to know her as the amazing woman she was and the iconic characters she played. Audrey had struggled so much early on, already you can see why she should inspire others. Though most people see her as a pretty face, or the symbol for the little black dress, Audrey was so much more.

Audrey got into acting mainly to support her mother and to help her not have to work menial jobs. Audrey got her start in supporting roles, one of which was The secret people in which she played a dancer. Audrey then went on to star on Broadway as Gigi, this led to a Theatre world award and Audrey’s first leading film role in Roman Holiday, which she later won the Academy Award for Best actress. This is probably my favourite Audrey film, although it does change from time to time, I love Sabrina as well. Audrey went on to star in over 30 films in total, but she has said in many interviews that her greatest role was as a UNICEF International goodwill Ambassador. After her last film role, Audrey dedicated her time to helping impoverished children around the world. Audrey travelled to Africa and South Asia as part of the UNICEF Programs, she was also highly dedicated to spreading awareness to others, to help get continued support for these causes close to her heart.

Audrey was presented with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in recognition of her tireless efforts and work with UNICEF, and The Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for her contribution to humanity. Though this award was given after her death, and was therefore accepted by her sons. Audrey Hepburn, has an extraordinary career and life, if you get the opportunity I suggest reading more about her and watching her films.

Audrey was a thoughtful, caring and lovable woman. The reason she inspires me so much, is not for her film career, but the person she was. Audrey believed in helping others far more than looking for fame, riches or anything else Hollywood could offer. I find it unfortunate that people who choose to only be a fan of her beauty don’t always take the time to read more about this fascinating woman and the life she led. I couldn’t think of a more inspirational person to start with for my new Sunday series, Audrey should inspire others to work hard, pursue your dreams, and help others.

Thank you for reading everyone!

Love

xx