As Women’s History Month unfolds, it’s crucial to honor the voices of women who excel in their fields and uplift and advocate for others. And award-winning actress, activist, and entrepreneur Taraji P. Henson is one of those voices. With a career that's spanned decades and a dedication to breaking barriers in Hollywood and beyond, Henson continues to exemplify what it means to be a powerful woman.

For Henson, power is multifaceted. “To me, being a powerful woman means having the resilience, confidence, and tenacity to steer your own path regardless of the obstacles,” she says. “Being a mother is powerful. Being a friend is powerful. Being an entrepreneur, an actor. Each of these facets of my life bring me so much pride I can't help but radiate strength when I step into each of them.”

Her ability to harness strength in every role—whether as a mother, an advocate, or an artist—has made her an inspiring figure for women across industries.

Henson has long used her platform to address important issues, particularly mental health in the Black community. In 2018, she founded the Boris L. Henson Foundation, named after her late father, a Vietnam War veteran who battled mental health struggles. The foundation works to break the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly for Black communities, by increasing access to therapy and education.

“There’s incredible strength in being candid about your challenges,” Henson shares. “That’s what drove me to establish the Boris L. Henson Foundation. Launching it, sharing my own struggles openly, and dismantling the stigma around seeking help and support has been one of the most powerful things I have been a part of.”

By speaking openly about her own experiences with anxiety and depression, she has given countless individuals permission to prioritize their mental well-being.

Beyond mental health advocacy, Henson has been a vocal advocate for equal pay for Black women in Hollywood. Despite her success and critical acclaim, she has publicly shared how she has had to fight for salaries that reflect her worth.

In a 2019 interview, she recalled having to negotiate for a fair paycheck for The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, despite earning an Academy Award nomination for the role. Even as a top-tier actress, she has faced disparities that many Black women experience in the workplace.

Her message to young women striving to make their mark is clear: “Don’t be afraid to carve your own path. Especially as a Black woman, you can't wait for people to make space for you. You have to be an advocate for yourself and take the leap without fear. Surround yourself with people who lift you up and cheer you on, hone your skills, and lead with grace and ferocity.”

One of the most impactful lessons Henson has learned from other women is simple but vital: “The best piece of advice another woman has given me is to always choose me first.”

In a society that often demands women put themselves last—whether in their careers, families, or relationships—Henson’s words serve as a reminder that prioritizing oneself isn’t selfish, but necessary.

From Hollywood to mental health advocacy to the fight for equal pay, Henson’s journey is a testament to resilience, fearlessness, and self-determination. She continues to use her voice and influence to empower others, proving that true power isn’t just about personal success—it’s about lifting others as you rise.

This Women’s History Month, we celebrate Henson and the countless women who, like her, refuse to settle for less, demand equity, and create space for future generations to thrive.