Representation matters, especially for girls. Across popular culture, in movies, and in books, girls aren’t typically front and center. When they are, they tend to be cast into stereotypes that girls internalize at a young age — stereotypes that aren’t always inspiring or empowering. 

It’s important to counteract these harmful messages by intentionally exposing young girls to positive role models who share empowering lessons. Positive affirmations and inspirational quotes for girls are much more than words—they are sentiments that can help manage stress, boost academic achievement, and improve self-esteem. 

We’ve rounded up a collection of inspirational quotes that you can share with your young Rebel. Read them to her, read them together, or print them and slip one into her lunch bag each day. Our wish for your Rebelis is that at least one of these inspirational quotes for girls speaks to them. We hope they spark her big dreams and give her the confidence to pursue them. 

“There’s something so special about a woman who dominates in a man’s world. It takes a certain grace, strength, intelligence, fearlessness, and the nerve to never take no for an answer.” — Rihanna, singer and entrepreneur

“If you’re always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be.” — Maya Angelou, poet

“When the whole world is silent, even one voice becomes powerful.” — Malala Yousafzai, activist 

“There is always light. If only we’re brave enough to see it. If only we’re brave enough to be it.” — Amanda Gorman, poet and activist

“The most effective way to do it, is to do it.” — Amelia Earhart, aviator

“You get in life what you have the courage to ask for.” — Oprah, global media leader

“Stand for something or you will fall for anything. Today’s mighty oak is yesterday’s nut that held its ground.” — Rosa Parks, activist

“When beauty shines from within, there can be no denying it.” — Alex Wek, supermodel 

“When you change a woman, you change a family, then a town and step by step we can change the entire country.” — Eufrosina Cruz, activist and politician 

“I’m not afraid of storms, for I’m learning to sail my ship.” — Louisa May Alcott, author

“You must want! You have the right to ask! You must desire.” — Evita Perón, politician 

“If it’s a good idea, go ahead and do it.” — Grace Hopper, computer scientist 

“Don’t be afraid to speak up for yourself. Keep fighting for your dreams!” — Gabby Douglas, gymnast

“Life is not easy for any of us. But what of that? We must have perseverance and, above all, confidence in ourselves.” — Marie Curie, scientist

“Never be afraid to be a poppy in a field of daffodils.” — Michaela DePrince, ballerina

“Your self-worth is determined by you. You don’t have to depend on someone telling you who you are.” — Beyoncé, singer

“Always stay true to yourself and never let what somebody else says distract you from your goals.” — Michelle Obama, lawyer and First Lady 

“I’ll tell you what freedom is to me: No fear.” — Nina Simone, singer

“Never dull your shine for somebody else.” — Tyra Banks, model

“Above all, don’t fear difficult moments. The best comes from them.” — Rita Levi-Montalcini, scientist

“If you want to be the best, you’ve got to emulate the best.” — Serena Williams, tennis player

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” — Eleanor Roosevelt, politician and First Lady 

For more inspiring Rebel Girls stories and content, head here.