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Yara Shahidi often makes headlines for her style, bold beauty looks, and presence on Hollywood red carpets. But as those who follow her may know, the actress is a dedicated activist, often lending her voice and platform to worthy causes around the world. And recently, she was recognised as one to watch at the Women in Film Honours, sponsored by Max Mara.
Celebrating its 50th anniversary, WIF Honours is an organisation that champions gender equity in film. For the last two decades, Max Mara has proudly supported its work, even creating the WID Max Mara Face of the Future Award. And in 2023, the honour went to Shahidi. She joins a prestigious list of women who have received the award, including Zoë Saldana, Gemma Chan, Katie Holmes, Elizabeth Banks and Emily Blunt.
For the occasion, the 23-year-old—who just graduated from Harvard—stunned in Grecian glam, wearing a white halterneck gown by Max Mara and a Frida Kahlo-style up-do that showed off her drop earrings.
The event also paid tribute to a host of other trailblazing women in Hollywood, from Jane Fonda and America Ferrera to Eva Longoria, Celine Song, and Greta Lee.
In her acceptance speech, Shahidi acknowledged the work her peers had done before her.
“Because of the work you’ve done, my most impactful times on set have been surrounded by empowered women in every department and at every executive level,” she said. “I’m grateful that I got to come into the industry at a time when that was the norm… I’m thrilled to be in this room and continue the legacy.”
Maria Giulia Prezioso Maramotti, Max Mara founder Achille Maramotti’s granddaughter and current Global Brand Ambassador, explained that Shahidi was chosen for her strong advocacy and great talent.
“When it came time to review our shortlist for the award, we were struck by Yara’s work as an actress and loved that she works with her mom as an executive producer and the idea of cross-generational-work,” she told Vogue. “On top of it, though, she’s such a strong advocate, not just politically, but she’s also so invested in education, which is something that for Max Mara is very important, as we see that as a sustainable and steady way to promote change.”
Fellow actors such as Danai Gurira, Lili Reinhart and Phoebe Dynevor attended the event to support the women being honoured.
