There's no doubt, we're living in eventful times.
All the upsetting and challenging events that have occurred in recent months – the US presidential election and threats towards Planned Parenthood, to name but a few – have the potential to get us down, way down.
But at least there's been one good outcome – an increase in the number of people feeling inspired to get more involved with a cause and fight for what they believe is right.
And models are no exception.
There's a new generation of catwalk stars who are acknowledging that activism is more important than ever and using their high-profile platform to help spark change.
From volunteering and campaigning for women's rights to speaking out about diversity and donating their incomes to charity, these women doing their bit to raise awareness of social issue, fight injustice and engage their community to spread love.
A new generation of MTAs has sprung up - no longer just meaning Model-Turned-Actresses but Model-Turned-Activists.
Here are 5 models that can inspire us to be our best selves this year:
1. Dilone
When everyone's favourite breakout model of 2016, Dilone, isn't doing her fashion thing, she's a passionate volunteer.
You'll find her engaging in the Hispanic community (her family comes from the Dominican Republic), or helping wherever she can - serving dinner to homeless people, playing bingo with the elderly or giving presents to sick children. Showing us that if you can't give money, you can at least offer a little bit of your time.
2. Hari Nef
Where to even begin?
Maybe by saying that the September 2016 ELLE cover star is the first transgender woman to be signed globally by IMG model agency. Apart from paving the way for other transgender stars, Hari's a huge advocate for women and trans rights. A role model in many respects, she helps spread the message of love and acceptance, and helps raise awareness of LGBT issues.
3. Adwoa Aboah
Adwoa, is the founder of Gurls Talk – an online platform focusing on women's issues, supporting female-focused dialogue and aiming to empower and celebrate girls without judgement or discrimination. She frequently speaks out on diversity in fashion, feminism, mental health and addiction.
4. Cameron Russell
Colombia graduate Cameron is outspoken on a range of social and polcitical issues – climate change, clean energy, fair wages for fashion industry workers all over the world ,just to name a few – and campaigns for activism within communities.
She's also organised a march and has one of most successful TED talks of all times under her belt.
5. Herieth Paul
Despite becoming a successful model, Herieth hasn't forget about her native Tanzania, where her mother runs an orphanage. Donating a percentage of her earnings, she helps create a college fund for the orphanage's students. In the future, she'd like to build a school for deaf children. Way to go!
Models turned role models – is there anything better?
