A Woman's Purpose

Ashley Graham insists that empowering other women is her purpose in life.

Ashley Graham, 31, is an American plus-sized model, who has been featured on the cover of Vogue, Elle, Harper's Bazaar, and Glamour magazines.

Ashley has been recognized for her continual efforts in support of body positivity within the fashion industry. As a women's advocate for equality and confidence, Graham was presented with the first ever Women's Empowerment Award, presented by the United Nations Women for Peace Association.

The model has always wanted the fashion industry to be more inclusive to women of all shapes and sizes. After creating the popular hashtag #BeautyBeyondSize, Ashley began thinking of herself as an advocate for all women.

Today's society can put a lot of pressure on young women to look as though they have the perfect life, with a great body and unachievable beauty. Ashley Graham has become an icon to young women because she emphasizes not giving into those pressures and anxieties that could be put on you as a women growing up in the world today.

Social media can be a brutal place, but Ashley encourages women not to be afraid to post your real self, no matter your insecurities.

“If me posting my cellulite will empower another woman, then I'm going to do that and ignore the haters!" says Graham.