Who or what inspires you? — Assembly

In Assembly’s “Around the world” series, girls sound off on the topics that matter to them, from the companies they’re dreaming up to the issues they wished more leaders talked about.

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“Two years ago, my mother went through a very difficult time — through a mammogram it was discovered that there was a cancerous development in her breast. She always remained optimistic and looked at the positive aspects of life, like that the cancerous growth was found at an early stage. Her ability to remain strong and be a bright light through that taxing time inspires me to always look on the bright side of a situation in the face of hardship.”

— Katrina, 16, from Jamaica

“Spirituality, cultures, sciences, landscapes, good energies and good deeds.”

— Catalina, 16, Colombia

“Being the first in any male-dominated field takes a lot of courage. I am inspired by the women who stepped forward in politics, journalism, literature and science despite all the social or religious norms that denied their presence. Whether the world remembers their names or they remain undiscovered but I believe they are the true heroes.”

— Mariyam, 23, Pakistan

“I am inspired everyday by my friends, parents and some of my fellow Mexicans that have made a path for their careers. I also admire Guillermo del Toro, Ann Makosinski, Eufrosina Cruz and Malala Yousafzai.”

— Saraí, 18, Mexico