A Heartfelt Tribute from Zahara Jolie to Her Mother
At a recent event held at Spelman College, Angelina Jolie’s daughter, Zahara Jolie, delivered a heartfelt speech that highlighted the deep bond between mothers and daughters. The 21-year-old student took to the stage alongside her 50-year-old mother, sharing her thoughts on the significance of this unique relationship.
Zahara described her mother as “the most selfless, loving and understanding woman” whom she is proud to call her mum. In a video shared on Facebook, she admitted that speaking about the value of mother-daughter relationships was challenging, not because she didn’t value it, but because her relationship with her mother is unique and difficult to put into words.
She explained that she was adopted by Jolie from Ethiopia at just six months old in July 2005. Growing up alongside her five siblings, Zahara was raised on the values of helping others, being kind, and striving for personal growth. These values may seem simple, but in a world where kindness is often overlooked, she expressed gratitude for having a role model like her mother.
“I am grateful to have had a role model to show me what it looks like to be a decent human being,” Zahara said, reflecting on her mother’s influence.
The speech concluded with a powerful quote: “I’m a strong woman because a strong woman raised me.” She then turned to look at her mother before adding, “Thank you, Mum.”
The event was part of a luncheon hosted by the Pearls of Purpose Foundation and the Nu Lambda Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha at Zahara’s Atlanta-based college. Angelina Jolie also spoke at the event, expressing her gratitude to the organizations for honoring her and her daughter.
“Thank you for supporting brilliant young minds and for hosting this mother-daughter luncheon and for taking the time to celebrate this very special bond and one of life’s most beautiful relationships,” Jolie said, according to a clip shared on X.
Jolie has six children: Maddox, 24, Pax, 22, Zahara, 21, Shiloh, 19, and 17-year-old twins Vivienne and Knox, with her ex-husband Brad Pitt. She adopted Maddox from an orphanage in Cambodia in 2002 and Zahara from Ethiopia in 2005, after which Pitt also adopted them.
The couple welcomed their daughter Shiloh in 2006, and later adopted son Pax from Vietnam. In 2008, Vivienne and Knox were born to the couple.
In recent years, many of the children have dropped the surname “Pitt” from their names, amid rumors of a strained relationship with their father. This change reflects a shift in how they choose to identify themselves, emphasizing their connection to their mother rather than their father.
Angelina Jolie continues to be a strong advocate for her children, ensuring they grow up with a sense of purpose and compassion. Her dedication to raising her family in a way that emphasizes kindness and growth is evident in the lives of her children, including Zahara’s touching tribute at Spelman College.
