H.E.R
Courtesy of L’Oréal Paris

At just 24 years-of-age, H.E.R. – whose real name is Gabriella Sarmiento Wilson – has certainly made an impact in the music industry. She has been nominated a whopping eight times for the 2022 Grammy Awards and more impressively, is among the second most-nominated artists for this year’s ceremony.

But before the singer can (fingers crossed) nab a golden gramophone this April, she has earned one of her biggest roles to date. Last week she was announced as the new international spokesperson of L’Oréal Paris. The artist’s first appearance for the brand featured the brand’s famous tagline, “I’m worth it”, emblazoned across her shirt.

Speaking to GRAZIA, Wilson reflected on what the statement means to her. “Because I’m worth it” means I can do ANYTHING,” she says. “I’m capable of achieving even the biggest of dreams. I am beautiful enough. I’m smart enough and strong enough.”

Unbeknown to many, H.E.R. actually stands for “Having Everything Revealed”. This honesty permeates through her award-winning music and is perhaps one of the reasons she is so successful today.

Through her platform (which includes five million followers on Instagram), Wilson advocates for the Black and Filipino communities from which she hails. She co-wrote 2021’s defining protest song, “I Can’t Breathe” at the height of the Black Lives Movement, winning Song of the Year at the 63rd Grammys. It was followed by “Fight for you,” co-written for the 2021 film Judas and the Black Messiah.

H.E.R
Courtesy of L’Oréal Paris

In addition, she continues to be a source of inspiration for female empowerment. With this newest partnership she hopes to “encourage young women to be courageous and confident in their own skin.”

“It’s a huge honour,” Wilson said following the announcement. “To be able to have such a big platform to inspire young women and be a part of a movement that empowers all women is really special.”

She continued, “I think we can encourage women to be themselves instead of putting women in a box and giving a mould.”