Michelle Obama teams up for Shine Theory

Michelle Obama came to SXSW to raise awareness about her global initiative, Let Girls Learn, however the discussion she anchored along with Queen Latifiah, Missy Elliot, Sophia Bush and Diane Warren shed light on the “Shine Theory“.

According to Vulure.com, “Shine Theory stresses the importance of women supporting other women. The core of the “shine” lies in the infectious nature of confidence, and how finding pride and joy in the endeavors of your fellow women will not only make you a happier person, but dampen the self-doubt and insecurity that can stifle the pursuit of success.” The women spent a hour discussing the importance of education, activism and community involvement; Which is a very important factor in today’s society.

The chemistry of the discussion was electrifying while the women where praising each other’s success. However, among the many compliments they shared personal experiences and related their success to the mission of Let Girls Learn. An initiative to aid girls in completing their secondary school education across the world. The First Lady sharing experiences growing up and relating it to Let Girls Learn, saying, “Growing up as a black girl on the South Side of Chicago, where the expectations for me were limited, I was trying to make my way … There were always people around me telling me what I couldn’t do. My reaction at the time was to prove the doubters wrong… There are many young people whose dreams get snuffed out with that negative energy.”

The connection between Let Girls Learn and the Shine Theory sparked a conversation that’ll enlighten many young women. According to Vulture, a song inspired by the organization was released after Michelle Obama’s keynote. It was written by Oscar-nominated song writer Diane Warren, and was recorded but an all women ensemble including Missy Elliot, Zendaya, Kelly Clarkson, Chole and Halle and many more!