Selena Gomez on representation: 'Young girls need to see themselves in empowered roles'

Selena Gomez shares why it's essential for young girls to see themselves in empowered roles and diverse characters.

Selena Gomez, honored with the Equity in Entertainment Award at The Hollywood Reporter’s Women in Entertainment Gala on December 4, 2024, emphasized the importance of representation for young girls. In her acceptance speech, the 32-year-old actress and entrepreneur reflected on a powerful moment from her past, when a young mother thanked her for being a role model for her daughter. "I'm so excited and happy. Thank you for being someone that looks like my daughter on TV," the mother had told Gomez when she was just 15 years old, filming Wizards of Waverly Place.

Gomez acknowledged that while she hadn’t fully understood the significance of that moment back then, it left a lasting impact. She now believes that young girls need to see themselves represented in diverse, empowered roles. "When girls see women in empowered roles like I have, it inspires them to dream big and pursue their aspirations," Gomez stated.

For Gomez, representation goes beyond simply having more faces on screen—it’s about creating opportunities where individuals can see themselves in various roles, whether as heroes, leaders, or complex characters. “When we give people the platform to tell their stories, we not only deepen our understanding of one another, but we also open doors to what's possible,” she added.

Gomez's work highlights her dedication to equity and inclusion, empowering women from all backgrounds to be their authentic selves. Her commitment to celebrating diverse voices continues to inspire, as she advocates for more stories and moments that break the mold in entertainment.