Celebrities are everywhere. They’re on TV, the radio, and in dozens of magazines. It has always made me upset when famous singers or actresses complain about being in the spotlight, claiming they didn’t sign up to be a role model. However, when you’re seen everywhere, people are going to naturally look up to you. It seems to be more and more difficult to find celebrities who use their fame to be a positive role model for others and make an impact in their communities, countries and in the world. Here are five celebrities I think we can all look up to.  

1. Emma Watson

Emma Watson speaks out about causes that are important to her without fear of consequences or of what people may think. As a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador, she often gives speeches about equality between the sexes and helped launch the HeForShe campaign that encourages others to also speak up about this issue. On top of everything going on in her life, she took a step back to pursue and complete her education at Brown University. Her bravery, passion, and determination is admirable and something everyone should model.

“Hermione’s not scared to be clever. I think sometimes really smart girls dumb themselves down a bit, and that’s bad … I’m a bit of a feminist. I’m very competitive and challenging.” –Emma Watson

2. Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift demonstrates her values in her everyday life and that makes her an incredible role model. Living in the spotlight 24/7, Taylor stays grounded. She has explained to the press numerous times that she wants to be a role model from people ages three to forty-three. She does not change her ways just so other people will like her. She is confident in herself and let’s people make fun of her. In fact, she makes fun of herself. This singer/songwriter lives a clean and wholesome life, and even with her busy schedule, she remains active in more than 20 charities. She surrounds herself with good people. And was quoted telling Selena Gomez, “If you think you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re probably in the wrong room,” highlighting her desire to surround herself with people who make her a better person.

3. The Jonas Brothers

While many have these brothers locked in their mind as Disney Channel stars, they have done a lot to benefit the world. They have donated over one million dollars to their own Charity, Change for the Children Foundation. They also actively support nearly 37 different charities. They are a Christian family, and religion is a big part of their lives as they live out strong values everyday. They have strong family ties and work to stay connected and close in order to support and love each other.

4. Zooey Deschanel

Coming from a family of successful entertainment professionals, Zooey works to stay grounded, spending only 25% of what she earns in a month. She makes an effort to always be a good role model, dressing appropriately and constantly striving to be herself in a sometimes superficial business. Everyone who is friends with her claims there is not a bad thing that can be said about her.

5. Tim Tebow

Tim Tebow, a football star, works to give back to the community. The Tebow Foundation announced their plan to build a children’s hospital in the Philippines, the country where he was born. He raises money for a pediatric cancer center and to give disadvantaged children a chance to go to Disneyland. One of the coolest things about Tim Tebow is that he shows a tough guy who played a rough sport can have a large, giving heart.