Celebrities on Instagram
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36 Ranking |
255 Posts |
36,951,108 Followers |
10 Followings |
Michelle Obama Girl from the South Side and former First Lady. Wife, mother, dog lover. Always hugger-in-chief. #IAmBecoming | becomingmichelleobama.com/ |
Michelle Obama Posts
173,394 Likes | 1513 days ago | 1,626
As we close out #BlackHistoryMonth, let’s make sure our voices are heard loud and clear by going to whenweallvote.org and helping our friends and family get registered and ready to vote. Because #WhenWeAllVote, we speak up for our communities and make a difference for this country we all love. @whenweallvote
677,326 Likes | 1519 days ago | 5,937
With these two, every day is #LoveYourPetDay. 🐶💖
1,215,714 Likes | 1522 days ago | 10,729
Throwing it back to my 1982 prom night and this pink satin, polka-dotted dress. If you're a student or teacher, join the #PromChallenge with @WhenWeAllVote and @MTV and tell us what your school is doing to register students to vote -- you could get a free prom for your school! Learn more at prom.mtv.com. You can also help me spread the word by posting your prom photo with #PromChallenge.
1,436,223 Likes | 1526 days ago | 7,831
Happy Valentine’s Day, my loves. You make even the coldest days feel warm. 💕
371,783 Likes | 1526 days ago | 3,817
This #GalentinesDay, I want to shout out my girlfriends who help me stay sane and grounded through all of life’s ups and downs. Whether we’re catching up over the phone, venting over a cup of coffee, or laughing it out during an 80s-themed workout, I know I can lean on these ladies—and that’s made all the difference. How do you show up for your best friends? Share in the comments below and don’t forget to tag your favorite girls to give them a little extra love today. #ThrowbackThursday
166,442 Likes | 1528 days ago | 1,780
I can still remember the mix of excitement, hope, anxiety, and fear that accompanied me everywhere I went during my first year of college. If I could tell my younger self one thing, it would be to slow down and take a breath – you’ve got this. And that’s exactly what I want to say to all of you out there who are just starting college. You’ve got this, and I cannot wait to see where your journey takes you and everything you learn and achieve along the way. Tune in now to watch as four first-year college students share a bit about their own journey during their first semester. #ReachHigher @attndotcom @reachhigher
499,550 Likes | 1531 days ago | 5,045
I loved spending my Saturday with @Oprah and all of the inspiring people who came out for #Oprahs2020VisionTour at Barclays Center. When we make wellness a priority, we’re better able to show up to all areas of our lives. For me, that means sticking to the basics: plenty of sleep, regular exercise, and full, healthy meals. What does wellness mean to you? #SelfcareSunday
226,454 Likes | 1540 days ago | 1,780
School counselors play such a crucial role in the lives of our young people, pushing them to dream big, supporting them in times of crisis, and helping them see their own limitless potential and reserves of resilience. Laura Ross does all of that and so much more as a school counselor at Five Forks Middle School in Lawrenceville, GA. Using the principles of restorative justice, she’s reduced the number of discipline referrals for students of color. She’s hosted presentations about body confidence for her fellow educators, helping them better understand the challenges so many young people are facing. And she’s leading the charge to make sure her school is an inclusive, welcoming place for LGBTQ students. I am so inspired by Laura and so thrilled that she is the 2020 @weareasca National School Counselor of the Year. Congratulations, Laura! #SCOY2020 @reachhigher
380,089 Likes | 1548 days ago | 3,926
Over the last couple of months, I’ve loved seeing so many of you put pen to paper and embrace your own stories. That’s what the Becoming Journal is all about—giving ourselves the space to reflect on where we’ve been, where we are, and where we hope to go. As l sit here writing down some of my own thoughts in the new year, I’m curious to know: What are you reflecting on this year? #NewYearNewYou #IAmBecoming #WellnessWednesday
743,617 Likes | 1552 days ago | 10,167
It's about that time when New Year's goals and resolutions get just a bit harder to stick to. To offer a little inspiration, I want to share my go-to 2020 #WorkoutPlaylist with all of you. These songs always seem to give me that extra boost to get through my toughest workouts. What's on your playlist? #IAmBecoming #SelfcareSunday
1,970,408 Likes | 1553 days ago | 30,875
Thank you all for the wonderful birthday wishes! With the girls off at college, this birthday brings with it a new perspective—a fresh breath—along my journey. I’m looking forward to devoting some quality time to my friends and to myself—and of course, to that husband of mine, too. I’m looking to make this year the best one yet—can’t wait to keep you all posted along the way.
480,327 Likes | 1558 days ago | 4,059
I couldn’t be happier that Julia Reichert, Steven Bognar, and all of the incredible people behind #AmericanFactory have been nominated for the Best Documentary Oscar. What Julia and Steve capture on film is at times painful, at times exhilarating, but always thoughtful and always real—exactly the kind of story Barack and I wanted to lift up with Higher Ground Productions. I hope you’ll see for yourself by checking it out on @Netflix.
613,979 Likes | 1711 days ago | 2,944
Always breaking barriers, @SimoneBiles—couldn’t be more proud of you!
369,575 Likes | 1712 days ago | 2,238
#InternationalYouthDay has me thinking about how, whenever I traveled abroad during my time as First Lady, I always tried to spend time with young people. I wanted to break outside of the conference halls and grand palaces and see how people really lived. So I visited girls in their classrooms in Cambodia and Liberia. I played table tennis with young people in China and danced with children in Mexico. The energy, the courage, the determination of these young women and young men — it never failed to inspire me. These are the young people who helped spur my work with the @GirlsOpportunityAlliance, where we’re doing our part to make sure every young woman on this planet has the chance to go to school and pursue her dreams. So today on #InternationalYouthDay, I hope you’ll join us to support these girls every single day. Check out the link in my bio to learn more.
404,387 Likes | 1715 days ago | 6,444
It feels like we could all use an uplifting story right about now. So let me tell you about an incredible young man I met a few years ago, Oscar McClain. What I love about Oscar’s story is that no matter how many ups and downs he’s been through, he’s always remained resilient on his journey of becoming. Just before he started high school, Oscar lost his grandfather. But he decided to turn his grief into determination, pouring his energy into his studies. Four years later, he was salutatorian of his high school class and joined me at the White House for my #BeatingTheOdds Summit. He went on to Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge, where he knew he’d have to be just as purposeful to reach a new set of goals. So he reached out to his professors and found a network of peers who kept him steady. But even so, last summer was hard. He faced another loss—this time, his father. It’s the kind of loss you carry with every step, every breath. Trust me, I know. But here’s how Oscar paid tribute to his father: He doubled down on everything he’d learned from him, and lived with dignity and purpose that would make his father proud. This May, he graduated college with a degree in Chemistry and a 3.7 GPA. Because as he told me this summer, “Overcoming obstacles is what causes success to be worth achieving.” I’m so proud of you, Oscar! #BetterMakeRoom
506,114 Likes | 1722 days ago | 3,881
This afternoon, I was thrilled to visit with @CocoGauff. When we talk about the potential of our young people, we often think about it as some far-off promise, years or decades away. But the truth is they have so much to offer us right now—something we all saw a few weeks ago at Wimbledon. Coco is a wonderful young woman who’s showing us that we don’t have to wait to see what the next generation can do.
340,703 Likes | 1723 days ago | 22,799
As part of #NationalGirlfriendsDay, let's give a shoutout to the friends who always have our backs! My girlfriends aren’t just people I like to hang out with—though we do plenty of that—they’re a vital part of who I am and who I’ll keep becoming. What are some ways your girlfriends have supported you? Tag them in the comments below.
1,068,944 Likes | 1725 days ago | 15,241
Whenever I see this picture, and the look in my mother’s eyes, I wonder if she has any idea what’s coming in the decades ahead: Real love and real loss, children and grandchildren who’d keep her on her toes, a wild ride to places she’d only read about or seen on television. But I also see something else in those eyes, something that guided me every day from the moment I was born—her unflappable belief that whatever came her way, she’d manage it. And because she’d manage, we all would, too. Happy birthday, Mom. I love you!
241,535 Likes | 1728 days ago | 3,029
On #NationalDanceDay, I'm shouting out the Lethal Ladies, a Baltimore STEP team who I saw perform back in 2017. I’m so proud of you all—and everyone who’s dancing today!
315,871 Likes | 1731 days ago | 2,069
I am so proud of everyone I met today at the #BeatingTheOdds Summit with @reachhigher2020. To anyone out there who feels like the world is stacked against them, know that I'm rooting for you to succeed and reach your full potential.
557,122 Likes | 1732 days ago | 4,301
Today I’m headed to @Howard1867 for our 5th annual #BeatingTheOdds Summit, where I’ll be reunited with some of the students I’ve met over the years. One of these is a resilient young woman named Rachel McKenzie Scott—and her story, like so many of those we’ll be celebrating today—couldn’t be more inspiring. For much of her life, Rachel felt like the world was working against her. She lost her mother when she was 12 and not long after, her father left their family. She and her siblings became wards of the state of Washington and her two younger siblings entered foster care. She’d go to bed at night wondering where her next meal would come from, and she’d wake up in the morning worried that she wouldn’t have clean clothes for school. Every day, she worried about her family’s safety, and she often thought about dropping out and giving up. But Rachel bet on herself. She asked for help and leaned on her mentor, Melissa Repp, to get through high school and college. At the University of Washington, she found professors she could open up to, friends she could relate to, and a trusty support dog, Blu, who was always there when she needed her. Today, she’s a graduate from the University of Washington, about to fulfill her lifelong dream of becoming an oceanographer. But that’s only part of the story—I’ll let Rachel tell you the rest. Check out my Instagram Story today as she takes it over and gives you a behind-the-scenes-look at today’s Summit.
298,850 Likes | 1738 days ago | 3,224
This is Darius Wesley, who I first met at a #BeatingTheOdds Summit back in 2014. Back then, he’d just graduated from North Lawndale College Prep in my hometown of Chicago. Growing up on the west side of the city, Darius lost friends and family members to violence and drugs. In high school, he was forced to uproot his life when his mother faced a series of health issues. At times, Darius told me, he just wanted to give up. But he didn’t. He couldn’t. It’s not who he is. Five years later, he’s channeled the lessons he learned while overcoming those obstacles into a marketing degree at Cleveland State University—becoming the first person in his family to graduate from college. I could not be prouder of this young man. Looking back, Darius said, "I appreciate those challenges-–they caused me to reach back and remember the support system that I have in the back of my pocket. All of the teachers and coaches that believe in me as a player, as a student, as a person. My mother, sisters, and brothers are all looking for me to just do better." Next Tuesday, Darius will once again join me in DC for our 5th anniversary #BeatingTheOdds Summit with @ReachHigher2020—one of the most inspiring days of the year. And in the meantime, I want to hear from all of you: Who's a young person in your life who is #BeatingTheOdds? Share their stories with me in the comments below. #ReachHigher
497,102 Likes | 1743 days ago | 2,983
Wishing a wonderful birthday to @Malala! When I first met Malala a few years back, I was blown away by her eloquence and her conviction to stand up for girls just like her in every corner of the globe. That conversation helped inspire me to focus more deeply on girls’ education around the world. Right now, there are tens of millions of girls who are not in school—girls who are bright, hardworking, and hungry to learn. To celebrate #MalalaDay, join me and @GirlsOpportunityAlliance in our work to empower girls in countries like South Africa, Ethiopia, and Tanzania. I hope you'll head over to the link in my bio to learn more and get involved.
147,376 Likes | 1744 days ago | 804
At the Women’s World Cup, we saw how sports can focus, inspire, and elevate us all. Thuba Sibanda is an @ObamaFoundation leader who’s using sports to empower girls in Namibia every single day. You can support leaders like Thuba through the @GirlsOpportunityAlliance, and I hope you do. Check out the link in my bio to learn more and get involved.
2,379,597 Likes | 1745 days ago | 11,089
I was lucky enough to share a few moments with Cameron Boyce—on set, at the White House, and on a service project—enough time to recognize that not only did he have incredible talent, but also an incredible heart. Sending out a lot of love and hugs to his family, friends, and his many, many fans.
287,856 Likes | 1748 days ago | 5,936
One thing I keep hearing from women across the country is how hard it is for us to put ourselves first. We're the first to care for our friends, families, coworkers, but we are last on our own list. The good news is we can make a change. I’ve seen it in my own life. And that starts with all of us as women searching within ourselves and our stories—and sharing what we’ve learned with one another. So I want to hear from you! What do you do to make yourself more of a priority?
757,975 Likes | 1748 days ago | 7,556
What a great night here in New Orleans celebrating 25 years of#EssenceFest and #BlackGirlMagic. Thanks to @GayleKing for sitting down with me to talk about all things #IAmBecoming, relationships and just how hard it is as women to put ourselves first.
684,937 Likes | 1748 days ago | 5,632
Hey, #EssenceFest! I brought a few of my girlfriends with me to New Orleans and we can't wait to join you tonight in the Superdome. Who's ready?!
1,472,771 Likes | 1769 days ago | 10,835
Pretty grateful for this guy. Happy Father’s Day!
783,163 Likes | 1769 days ago | 3,935
I love this photo of my father because it shows so much of his presence—his strength, his poise, and yes, his style. My dad was pretty cool. He was proud and warm with a smooth baritone voice and ready laugh. He was also quite punctual, as you can see from his wristwatch suntan. But I also love this photo because its imperfections capture a lot about what it’s like for me to think about him today. This snapshot is a reminder that all memories are somewhat incomplete, a photographic representation that my time with him was cut short. And that’s ok—that’s life. And that’s why, today and every day, I’m grateful for all of it: for every imperfect photograph, for every incomplete memory, and for the many wonderful, beautiful years I had to learn and love — and be loved by — my father. Happy Father’s Day, Dad. I miss you and I’ll love you forever.
516,736 Likes | 1773 days ago | 3,316
On Anne Frank's 90th birthday, I keep reflecting on this quote from her. I first read the Diary of Anne Frank as a young woman, and while in Amsterdam this past April on my #IAmBecoming tour, I was deeply moved by my visit to the Anne Frank House, where she and her family lived in hiding for more than two years. There, I saw this quote on the wall—it reflects the timelessness of her truth, the courage of a young woman who saw the power in her own voice, even when she was confronted with unimaginable horror and difficulty. What inspires me is her instinct not just to use her voice on its own, but to use it to connect with those around her—to work for something larger than herself. I hope that her example inspires all of us to speak up just a little louder, a little more bravely in our own lives today. And if we all do that, then together, we can shine a little more light on what we share—the common humanity that unites us all. #Anne90
677,574 Likes | 1777 days ago | 5,273
This resilient and hardworking young lady is Anta Nije. I first met Anta back in 2015 when I spoke at King College Prep’s graduation on the South Side of Chicago. Three years later, I caught up with Anta in Atlanta while talking to a group of college students during my #IAmBecoming book tour. A first-generation college student, she graduated just last month from @Spelman_College where she studied political science and journalism. While at Spelman, she hosted a podcast, mentored first-year students at Morehouse, joined Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, and became Miss HBCU. Now with her degree in hand, she’s taking her next step by interning at a fashion company in Paris and with a dream of one day building her own fashion brand. I’m so proud of the person that Anta has become. She’s a terrific example of the many bright young people in our country working hard to lift up themselves and their families through education. Now, I want to hear from you. Let’s give some love to all of the inspiring #Classof2019 graduates out there -- shout them out by tagging them in the comments below! #ReachHigher
173,560 Likes | 1785 days ago | 1,482
Chicago is the city that taught me what it means to give back. I was a few years into my career when I decided to leave my law firm, diving into city government and nonprofit work. Over the years, I ended up visiting parts of the city I hadn’t been to before, spending time with elderly residents, supporting promising young leaders, and working to bridge the divide between a hospital and the community it served. It was all so inspiring and motivating—some of the work I’m most proud of to this day—and it gave me skills and lessons that I’m still applying every day. That’s why I was so thrilled to hear about this week's first-ever Civic Action Awards, where the @ObamaFoundation and @ChiPubSchools honored those who’ve made a powerful impact inside and outside of school. Congratulations to all the winners—and it’s great to see so many of you getting an earlier start than me!
856,261 Likes | 1786 days ago | 4,640
I could not be more honored to help celebrate 50 years of @SesameStreet tonight. It’s a program that’s been a part of my life as a child, as a mother, as First Lady—and thankfully, still today. I’ll never forget the first time my daughters came to Sesame Street with me back in 2010. As Malia, Sasha, and I walked onto that street with the brownstone, the grocery store, and the famous trash can, we were totally overwhelmed, in awe, our faces filled with wonder, and our spirits soaring. But it wasn’t just us—my staff was mesmerized. Even the Secret Service agents had big goofy grins on. There is something unexplainable that happens there, some unique alchemy that bubbles up that you just can’t find anywhere else. There’s nothing in the world that so beautifully marries boundless aspiration with simple goodness, nothing that strips away the daily madness and distraction, nothing that is so pure and hopeful—and absolutely essential to our future. Congrats on 50 great years—here’s to 50 more. I hope you’ll join me in celebrating by sharing a favorite memory or lesson learned using #Sesame50.
266,795 Likes | 1796 days ago | 4,315
At the end of this extraordinary #IAmBecoming tour, I want to say thank you to all of you who’ve been a part of this journey. Thanks for what you do every day—for doing the right thing; for living with honesty and compassion. It’s up to us to stay hopeful for the next generation. #MondayMotivation
206,502 Likes | 1800 days ago | 1,561
People don’t get to where they are if they go at it alone. Last week, I met the new class of #ObamaFellows—20 leaders from around the world who are doing the type of work that will create a better future for all of us. We talked about what keeps us going and how important it is to have help along the way. With support from the @ObamaFoundation—and each other—our hope is that these Fellows will continue to grow and expand their work, changing the world for generations to come.
387,261 Likes | 1801 days ago | 3,421
Sunday night in Nashville, I walked off stage for the final time on my #IAmBecoming tour. After 34 stops, from Chicago to Copenhagen and Vancouver to Atlanta, I couldn’t be more humbled—or more hopeful. I started this journey knowing that in order for you all to know who I was, you had to know my whole story—the broken parts, the struggles, and the imperfections. It wasn’t always easy to share those moments, but I know that it’s only because of them that I was able to become something more. So thank you all—all the young people I met along the way, all the folks sitting in the balconies, all the book clubs who generated real discussions—for recognizing that truth in your own lives, and for sharing it not just with me but with the world. If each of us can do more of that, if we can be a little more vulnerable, a little more honest with ourselves and with each other, then maybe we can pay that lesson forward to someone else. Maybe we’ll be able to offer each other a little more grace. And maybe then, we can more fully embrace the ways we are the same. To me, that’s how we can all keep becoming, together.
3,020,584 Likes | 1804 days ago | 30,358
Growing up, every time I’d come home from school with a story to share, my mother was there with a snack and a listening ear to hear about what was on my mind. When I came home with a tale about my disastrous second-grade classroom, she marched into the school to figure out what was going on. And as I grew older, including up through my years as First Lady, she was always there for me as a guiding light through whatever fog was clouding my path. She’s always listened more than she lectured; observed more than she demonstrated. In doing so, she allowed me to think for myself and develop my own voice. From an early age, she saw that I had a flame inside me, and she never tempered it. She made sure that I could keep it lit. Mom, thank you for kindling that fire within me, and for your example as a mother and a grandmother to our girls. We would never be who we are today without you. #HappyMothersDay, Mom. Love you. ❤️
175,763 Likes | 1804 days ago | 898
Hey Atlanta! Before heading to @statefarmarena tonight for the second to last show on my #IAmBecoming tour, I joined students and staff from @spelman_college, @cau1988, and @morehouse1867 to talk about the importance of celebrating our stories—every part of them; every vulnerability, failure, and imperfection. It takes courage to share those parts of our stories, but it couldn’t be more important. Because by embracing our whole truth, we don’t just understand ourselves better, we open ourselves to a better understanding of everyone else’s stories too.
202,849 Likes | 1805 days ago | 1,002
As I begin the final weekend of my #IAmBecoming tour, I joined my friends @honeychildtracy and @michele__norris in Florida to talk about why it's so important to make sure girls know the power in their own stories. Whether as a parent, mentor, teacher, or neighbor, each of us can show them that their voices are valued and respected from a young age—and that can have an extraordinary effect on who they’ll become in the years ahead. When we view their voices as equal, when we truly listen to them and appreciate what they say, they will feel more empowered to share themselves with the rest of the world, too. Organizations like @HoneyShineInc and @OYCMiami are living out this message by giving girls in Florida the tools and platform they need to reach their boundless potential. To the ladies I met with today, never underestimate the power in your own story — I hope you’ll share yours bravely, and help others share theirs, too. It’s how we all keep becoming, together.
1,903,317 Likes | 1806 days ago | 15,785
With #MothersDay just a couple days away, I find myself thinking a lot about the way my mother raised me. And even though our family was crammed into a tiny apartment, one of the greatest gifts she gave me was the freedom to explore and develop into my own person. For instance, even though we didn’t have much money, she and my dad cobbled enough money together to send me on a high-school trip to Paris, which opened up the world to me in so many ways. And now that I’m raising kids of my own, I wanted to pass that lesson on to my own girls. I’ve been so fortunate to be able to travel with Sasha and Malia all across the country and around the world—experiences my mother never would have dreamed of back when I was their age. But though the settings may be different, the message is the same, and it’s one I hope mothers everywhere pass on to their daughters—in seeking out new perspectives and reaching outside of our comfort zones, we can discover more about ourselves.
817,092 Likes | 1807 days ago | 5,119
As we prepare for #MothersDay on Sunday, I wanted to take a moment to shine a light on those women in our lives who may not be our mothers, but have nonetheless played an important role in nurturing us. I’ve been grateful to be surrounded by so many strong, intelligent, warm-hearted women who, along with my mother, have made me who I am. They include my soft-spoken grandmother LaVaughn, whose work managing a Bible book store showed me some of my first glimpses of a woman in charge. I sparred with my Aunt Robbie, who lived below us, during piano lessons—but her teaching showed me the importance of hard work and preparation, and she was always there for me when I needed her most. My mentor at Princeton, Czerny, saw potential in me and did her part to get me to step outside of my comfort zone—to be a little more bold, a little less cautious. And then there’s Eleanor Kaye Wilson, who we call “Mama Kaye.” She’s sweet-hearted and deep-rooted, a second mother or grandmother for all four of us—Malia, Sasha, Barack, and me. She’s been there to help with mealtime, craft time, been to all of our events over so many years—a wonderful friend and confidant to my mother. We love her, just like we love so many supportive women whose stories and contributions often go unrecognized, but who deserve just as much appreciation and love this time of year. So if there’s a Mama Kaye or a Czerny, a Grandma LaVaughn or an Aunt Robbie in your life, make sure to show them some love this weekend, too.
213,768 Likes | 1809 days ago | 1,291
Through our work together to honor and support military families, I saw what an inspiration Jill Biden is to those around her. Her memoir, “Where the Light Enters: Building a Family, Discovering Myself,” is out today—I hope you’ll read it. #WheretheLightEnters
332,287 Likes | 1810 days ago | 2,110
This amazing smile belongs to a young man named Duvall Footman, who I met at #CollegeSigningDay in Los Angeles. Duvall’s already seen his share of adversity—by the time he turned 18, he had lost both of his parents. But he’s made it his goal to do them proud by working hard in school, and he’s set his sights on one day getting a degree in film and television. He currently attends Antelope Valley Community College with plans to continue his education @UCLA next year. Outside of his studies, Duvall plans to continue to mentor young people like him to make sure they know they can pursue their dreams, too. He’s seen the power of belief and resilience in his own life. And today he says: "I know that I have been gifted and favored to overcome every obstacle in my path." All I can say is that I think the world #BetterMakeRoom for Duvall. #ReachHigher
475,105 Likes | 1814 days ago | 4,003
I am so proud of each and every student out there who’s celebrating #CollegeSigningDay and committing to continue their education. I know how hard you worked in all of your classes. I know how much time and care you put into your applications. And I know how many hurdles each of you had to clear to make it to today. So I hope you all are as excited about this day as I am—but I’m even more excited to see what you all do in the years ahead. #BetterMakeRoom
158,256 Likes | 1816 days ago | 867
I’m so proud of the next class of #ObamaFellows—civic leaders already working in communities from Hanoi to Nairobi to New Orleans. They’ve brought hope to marginalized communities, helped protect our planet, and empowered women to take charge of change. What they’ve accomplished on their own is remarkable—and now, with the @ObamaFoundation, we’re excited to see what they can learn from each other.
251,474 Likes | 1819 days ago | 1,567
Spring is an exciting time of year for high school seniors. They’ve worked so hard for so long to get to this point, and now they’re making their families and communities proud by graduating. That's why for the past five years, as part of my @reachhigher2020 initiative, I’ve been celebrating these students as a part of #CollegeSigningDay. And on Wednesday, I'll be @UCLA with a few friends to shine a spotlight on some of these amazing students who are investing in themselves through higher education. They include promising young people like Kayla Perez. Kayla's a soon-to-be graduate from El Rancho High School in California and will be the first person in her family to go to college this fall. Not only is she an editor on her school newspaper, captain on the Academic Decathlon team, and fluent in Spanish and Korean, she also works restaurant jobs to help support her family. Kayla’s hard work also helped her save up to study abroad in South Korea last year. I can’t wait to celebrate amazing students like Kayla during #CollegeSigningDay—and I want to hear from the rest of you out there who are going on to college in the fall. Share a photo in your school’s shirt and use #CollegeSigningDay and #BetterMakeRoom!
1,412,133 Likes | 1824 days ago | 8,529
Happy birthday to my big brother, Craig, who’s always been by my side whenever I’ve needed him. But what I love about Craig is he isn’t just that way around me. He’s always there for my mom, for his wife, and especially for his children. No matter what he’s got going on, he’s always making sure those around him know they’re loved. So today, I want him to know he is, too. Have a great day, @craigmalrob!
1,117,312 Likes | 1828 days ago | 17,059
So proud of my girl! The Queen has done it again. @Beyonce, thank you for always living your truth. #BeyonceHomecoming
922,272 Likes | 1830 days ago | 4,606
I will never forget the first time I walked into the Notre Dame Cathedral. I was a teenager on a school trip to Paris. It was my very first international trip, and until then, I hadn’t seen much outside of the South Side neighborhood I grew up in. But the majesty of Notre Dame—the history, the artistry, the spirituality—took my breath away. The feeling was almost indescribable—a place that lifts you to a higher understanding of who we are and who we can be. Every time I’ve visited in the years since, including as First Lady, I felt the same thing. So being here in Paris tonight, my heart aches with the people of France. Yet I know that the Notre Dame I experienced all those years ago, as so many others have over the centuries, will soon awe us again.
768,055 Likes | 1832 days ago | 9,212
I’m traveling in Europe right now for my #IAmBecoming tour and my brother just sent me one of the best texts I’ve ever received. My father gave us absolutely everything. The laughs and lessons, the hugs, the heartache from losing him—they’re all still there with me, every minute. Each of us has our own perspectives and emotions; our own journeys in the moment and in the years since. And that’s why it’s so important to share our stories with each other—not just to remember, but to connect. Even an ocean away. Love you, big brother. ❤️
892,917 Likes | 1835 days ago | 13,257
I’m so thrilled to be in Europe this week! We kicked off our trip in Copenhagen, tonight we’re in Stockholm, and we’ll also make our way to Oslo, London, Paris, and Amsterdam. I’m so excited to visit these beautiful cities and can’t wait to hear the inspiring stories from so many new faces. And I want to keep hearing from all of you! What questions do you have? Share in the comments below.👇🏾#IAmBecoming
975,003 Likes | 1836 days ago | 4,872
For as long as I can remember, my big brother Craig has always had my back. He's still one of my best friends today. Thanks for always coming out swinging for me, Craig! #NationalSiblingsDay
716,822 Likes | 1840 days ago | 3,914
As you’ve seen, I’ve been highlighting amazing young people during #BlackHistoryMonth and #WomensHistoryMonth. And now that we’re in April, I realized I have so many more stories to share—so why not keep it going? Let me introduce you to 18-year-old Hannah Bajakian. I first met Hannah at the 2015 White House Mother’s Day Tea when she was an 8th grader from Ft. Drum, New York. She’d written to me about her dad, a lieutenant colonel in the Army, and all the service and sacrifice that comes with being a kid from a military family — moving to new schools, leaving friends, and witnessing her family's daily strength and perseverance while her father battled cancer and served through multiple deployments. But as I’ve seen so many times, kids growing up in military families develop the most incredible skills of resilience, integrity, and commitment to something larger than themselves. Now a high school senior, Hannah is valedictorian of her class. She played a lead role in her school’s production of Mamma Mia. And a few weeks ago, she was accepted to West Point, carrying on the family tradition of service to our country. I’m so proud of the woman Hannah is becoming and I can’t wait to see everything she accomplishes in the years ahead. #IAmBecoming #FlashbackFriday #ReachHigher
415,096 Likes | 1843 days ago | 2,038
Valerie was one of my earliest, and best, role models for how to be a confident woman and mother in the workplace. She helped me while I was #FindingMyVoice, and I'm so proud to see @valeriebjarrett helping others find and use their own voices.
148,161 Likes | 1844 days ago | 940
When it comes to being a voter, there’s no such thing as an "off” year. Throughout 2019, voters in states and cities all across the country will head to the polls to make important decisions that will affect our communities—and tomorrow is one of those big election days. So whether your community is voting Tuesday or sometime later this year, I hope you’ll join me and @WhenWeAllVote in making sure our friends, family, and neighbors are ready to make their voices heard. Get started at whenweallvote.org. #WhenWeAllVote
594,632 Likes | 1847 days ago | 2,719
Congratulations to my amazing and extraordinarily talented friend, @ritawilson, on being honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame! From your first star turn on The Brady Bunch, to producing your mega hits My Big Fat Greek Wedding and Mamma Mia, you are a true Hollywood legend.
217,395 Likes | 1847 days ago | 1,247
I met Charisma Quiroz when I visited the Gila River Indian Community in Arizona last month. She’s a first-generation college sophomore at the University of Arizona studying political science and environmental science. In addition to working hard in her classes, Charisma is involved with a program on campus that offers support to first-generation college students. After graduation, Charisma plans to bring her knowledge back to her tribe by focusing on agriculture and water rights in her community. She also wants to help other young people on tribal lands pursue higher education. Charisma is a terrific example of what happens when we invest in young women—they pay it forward with investments of their own. Thanks for letting me share these inspiring stories with you during #WomensHistoryMonth! Do you know a young person who's changing their community? I want to hear about them — please share their story below! #IamBecoming #FlashbackFriday #ReachHigher
285,214 Likes | 1852 days ago | 2,317
What does it take to be a #BalancedBlackGirl? As I discussed with @balancedles at her #IAmBecoming book club meeting, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. For me, a big part of achieving balance is being connected to a community of women—soul sisters who are always there to lean on, and with whom I can just kick off my shoes and be myself. I'm talking about the kind of friends who are always there to lift me up, affirm me for who I am, and remind me that in order to do any good for anyone else, I’ve got to be good to myself and practice #SelfCare. What does being a #BalancedBlackGirl mean to you? I can’t wait to hear your answers!
252,447 Likes | 1854 days ago | 1,328
Over the years, I’ve developed a real connection with a couple of girls’ schools in London. I see myself in these girls, and always have since I first visited the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School in 2009. One of these young women is Nusrath Hassan. I first met Nusrath in 2009 and we caught up again last year when I visited London for my book tour. Today, she's about to graduate from law school, and she’s been fighting for women’s rights in the community she grew up and around the world. I am so proud of Nusrath—she’s using her voice not just to benefit herself, but to lift up girls everywhere. #IAmBecoming #WomensHistoryMonth #FlashbackFriday
333,242 Likes | 1857 days ago | 2,511
Today I stopped by one of Portland's locally-owned bookstores, @BroadwayBooks, and spent time with a group of young professional women who are juggling careers, relationships, and children, and trying to find a little time for themselves too. We talked about the importance of self-care and finding a group of women to support us through all our ups and downs as we try to manage our chaotic lives. And you don’t have to be here in Portland to take part in this conversation—let me know what you and your book clubs have been discussing! #IAmBecoming
127,059 Likes | 1858 days ago | 1,269
Recently I sat down with some of @Youtube’s #BookTubers and creators to talk all things #IAmBecoming. We covered everything from marriage advice, to what it means to swerve, to my favorite books. Watch the full discussion at http://goo.gl/oggoh2.
187,213 Likes | 1859 days ago | 898
There’s never a dull moment with you, Conan. Thanks for the laughs! Listen in at https://apple.co/TeamCoco. #IAmBecoming
244,366 Likes | 1859 days ago | 1,115
We’re halfway through #WomensHistoryMonth, and today I’m highlighting one of our country’s incredible military spouses—Kiesha Yokers, who came to my show in New York City in December with @bluestarfamilies. She’s a mother to two beautiful children. She’s a Navy wife. She’s an advocate for adoption. And she’s passionate about helping women of color build healthier lives. Like so many military spouses, she’s got a lot on her plate. After years of moving around the world with her Naval husband, Keisha stopped teaching elementary school to raise her two children. Soon enough, she decided to change her career path. Kiesha took the leap and started @greenandwellbeauty with the desire to see women of color live longer, healthier lives. It's become an inspiring and safe place to talk about issues close to Kiesha’s heart. Do you have a "swerve moment" that changed your path in life? Share in the comments below! #IAmBecoming
280,938 Likes | 1861 days ago | 1,500
While in Milwaukee, my friend Conan O’Brien and I surprised some high school juniors from across the city who were meeting with @reachhigher2020 to talk about their college dreams. We told them how proud we are of them, and we reminded them that so many people have their backs! To the incredible young people out there, don't forget that I'm rooting for you every step of the way. I can't wait to see what you achieve! #ReachHigher
229,769 Likes | 1863 days ago | 1,302
It was such a treat to sit down with two book clubs from the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area for a conversation with women from so many different walks of life. But as so often happens, rather than focusing on surface-level differences, we talked about so many things we all share. This week, I hope you’ll try to do the same. Strike up a conversation with that coworker or neighbor you haven’t really had a chance to meet yet. By sharing our stories—our little joys and struggles—we can see what unites us. #IAmBecoming
2,213,940 Likes | 1865 days ago | 15,744
Still dancing at 110 years old—happy birthday, Virginia!
255,006 Likes | 1869 days ago | 2,013
This beautiful smile belongs to Eliakunda Kaaya. I sat down with her and several of her peers for a conversation on girls' education last fall. Eliakunda comes from a family of nine children in Tanzania. She once said, "My own brothers would say… that it was a waste of time and waste of investment to…[send] me to school, because a woman is meant to be married.” But Eliakunda never believed that. She became the first person in her family to go to high school—and then the first to go to college. After she graduated she became a @ShesTheFirst Fellow and she launched a project called "Her Journey to School,” which builds on her own experience by reaching out to parents about the importance of sending their daughters to school. Eliakunda's story shows us the power of education—and the promise inside every single girl around the world. #InternationalWomensDay
172,721 Likes | 1869 days ago | 822
Few things in life inspire me like young people taking action. This week, I visited with the #ObamaScholars, who have spent the past few days connecting and learning together in D.C. Already, they’re making profound differences in their home countries, from expanding peacebuilding operations in Colombia to fighting for gender rights and marginalized communities in Pakistan. Now, through the @ObamaFoundation, the University of Chicago, and Columbia University, they’re taking their work to the next level with a world-class education. The work they are doing is remarkable, and the best resource they have is each other—because work like this is impossible in isolation. I know that in the years ahead, these young leaders will make their communities better, and in turn, that makes the world a little brighter for all of us.
624,257 Likes | 1870 days ago | 9,843
As I read through your feedback on my book, one theme that keeps popping up is how to empower the women around us—whether that's our girlfriends, coworkers, or the women we see at the gym or at happy hour. Empowering each other is a big question and can take a lot of forms, but one thing I know is that it's up to us to be there for each other—especially those who often feel overlooked—because when someone shows genuine interest in your growth and development, it can make all the difference in the world. So for#WomensHistoryMonth, I want you to let me know how you’re making an impact on another woman's life. Whether that’s joining a mentoring program, asking your boss about how they’re planning to get more women’s voices at the table, or simply taking 10 minutes to lend an ear to your coworker over coffee, I want to hear what you’re up to! Let me know in a short video or in comments below. 👇🏾#IAmBecoming #WellnessWednesday
380,053 Likes | 1870 days ago | 10,491
Looking forward to sitting down with a few of my friends! #IAmBecoming
85,527 Likes | 1872 days ago | 675
Five years ago, we decided we wanted to make a big splash for all students who were committing to college—the same way we do athletes. Every year on #CollegeSigningDay, students across the country announce their plans to go to community college, university, trade or vocational school, or join the military—and the rest of us do our part to help them celebrate. This year, I’ll be @UCLA on May 1 with @BetterMakeRoom to do just that. And I can use your help to show the amazing young people in your community that we’ve got their backs, too. So I hope you’ll sign up to host your own Signing Day event in your community at bettermakeroom.org/collegesigningday. #BetterMakeRoom
388,277 Likes | 1874 days ago | 2,063
Today, my friend Michele Norris and I sat down with the ladies of @HTXBookAndBrunch in Houston to talk about our individual paths of becoming. With newlyweds and some new moms in the group, we focused on the necessity of self-care, the important role girlfriends play in our lives, and the balancing act of work and family. Thanks to Cindy and Alexis for leading the conversation — it was so much fun! To all the book clubs out there, keep your feedback and questions coming. Add them to the comments below or share using #IAmBecoming. Can't wait to hear from you!
336,696 Likes | 1875 days ago | 1,415
As we enter #WomensHistoryMonth, I’m going to keep focusing on the stories of the history that’s being made today. I’ll be telling you about young women I’ve met recently—young women who are making the most of the opportunities created by the generations who came before them. I met this first group of young ladies when I visited my alma mater, @WhitneyMYoungHS on the South Side of Chicago, last fall with my friend Robin Roberts. They’re working hard in their classes, expressing themselves through dance, and dreaming big for themselves in the years ahead. It probably goes without saying, but I see a lot of myself in these smiles. And I can’t wait to see what they become. #FlashbackFriday #IAmBecoming
175,725 Likes | 1880 days ago | 1,782
Your story matters—but if you don’t see that, chances are no one else will either. So even though I know it isn’t always easy, I hope everyone out there finds the strength to share their truth. Because the world needs to hear it. That’s the message I had for the students at the Gila River Indian Community in Arizona—one of the brightest, most resilient, most inspiring groups I’ve met. I have a feeling we’ll hear more from them in the years ahead. #MondayMotivation #ReachHigher
361,810 Likes | 1883 days ago | 2,089
This huggable young woman is Shayla Allen—and she’s the next young history-maker I want to tell you about during #BlackHistoryMonth. I met Shayla in Philadelphia last November along with several of her friends at @beGirl.world. In addition to working hard in her classes at Central High School, Shayla is active in the African American student union and poetry club. She loves to dance, whether it’s modern, jazz, ballet, or anything else. One day, she hopes to be an English or science teacher. She shared her own #IAmBecoming story with me saying, "I'm becoming a girl who is comfortable and happy in the skin I'm in and I honestly wouldn't have it any other way." I'm so proud of you, Shayla—just like I’m proud of all the young people finding strength and pride in who they are. Do you know a young leader who deserves a shoutout? Share their story with me and tag them in the comments below.👇🏾#ShareBlackStories #FlashbackFriday
295,214 Likes | 1890 days ago | 12,352
Jaquan Frierson is the next young history-maker I want to tell you about for #BlackHistoryMonth. I saw Jaquan last year at the @motownmuseum with a group of inspiring young men from @waynestate —and it turned out he’d celebrated #CollegeSigningDay in Detroit with me 3 years earlier, too. He’s been busy since I saw him last. Jaquan is a first-generation college student. He’s studying mechanical engineering. He’s conducting research into new sources of renewable energy. He’s a volunteer math tutor for Detroit public schools. And he started his own record label. There are a lot of roads in front of Jaquan—he hopes to start a business in Detroit someday—just like there are unlimited pathways for all those students like him across the country. They might be the first in their families to get a college degree, but they won’t be the last. Now, I want to hear from you! Share a story of a first-generation college student paving the way for those behind them by using #ShareBlackStories. #FlashbackFriday
2,718,749 Likes | 1890 days ago | 17,716
So lucky to call these three my valentines for all these years. 💕
2,534,893 Likes | 1892 days ago | 49,415
When your mom doesn't think you're a "real" celebrity...Tonight in Phoenix, I shared this text thread from my mom from #Grammys night, and I just had to share it with all of you. #TextsFromMom 😂
425,755 Likes | 1892 days ago | 2,099
Today I sat down with several young people from the Gila River Indian Community in Chandler, Arizona, home to the Akimel O’otham and Pee Posh tribes. To me, these students are living proof of the power of resilience. No matter what they’re facing, no matter their circumstances, they get up every day believing that they can make life better for themselves, their families, and their peers. I believe in them, too—and I hope you do as well. This isn’t the last time we’ll hear from Samaira, Andrew, Adam, Charisma, Daniel, Karissa, and Erica. #ReachHigher
2,525,491 Likes | 1894 days ago | 24,106
For me, a big part of friendship is showing up for your girls—whether that’s for a birthday, a quick catch-up after work, or a major milestone. So I was thrilled to be there for the one and only @aliciakeys at the #GRAMMYs. She is one of the most genuine, caring, and thoughtful people I know—there’s no one better to help us all celebrate the unifying power of music!
408,025 Likes | 1896 days ago | 2,144
This #BlackHistoryMonth, I’m paying tribute not only to the contributions that have been made over the years, but all the history being made right now. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing stories of young people I’ve met in the past year—young people who stand on the shoulders of the giants we celebrate this month while also building a legacy of their own. This charming young woman is Alexandra Swain, who I met when I visited my alma mater, @WhitneyMYoungHS, in Chicago. She’s a junior there, editor of the school newspaper, president of the mock trial team, and a mentor to younger students. Outside of school, she volunteers at a retirement home, an animal welfare organization, and her local parks district. She’s making history, day by day, in big ways and in small. What gives me hope is that there are millions of young people like Alexandra doing us proud all across the country. They’re a reminder that so much of our history is yet to be written. Now, I call on you to share your own stories with #ShareBlackStories. #FlashbackFriday
356,026 Likes | 1900 days ago | 7,135
Since I published my memoir, one of my favorite parts of the whole experience has been hearing from all of you—especially those of you in book clubs. I know that you all have been having some long discussions with your friends, and I hope it’s been worthwhile. So, as I prepare for the conversations I’ll be having on this final leg of my book tour, I’d love to hear more about what you all have been talking about! What issues have you been focusing on? What resonated in your own lives? What did you want to hear more about? Share your thoughts with me using #IAmBecoming. Also, your book club could get tickets to one of my events this spring—learn more at becomingmichelleobama.com.
277,796 Likes | 1900 days ago | 1,900
Give it up for National School Counselor of the Year Brian Coleman from my hometown of Chicago! Hearing his story is the perfect kind of #MondayMotivation for #NSCW19. To Brian and school counselors across the country, thank you for helping our students reach their full potential! Now I want to hear from you: Tell me about how a school counselor has helped you on your journey. #ReachHigher
2,434,130 Likes | 1918 days ago | 52,198
Thank you all so much for the birthday love—I love you all right back! Feeling so incredibly thankful for my South Side roots, my soul-affirming partner and daughters, and every unimaginable twist and turn over these 55 years. Can’t wait to see what becomes of the next one!
719,008 Likes | 1936 days ago | 20,600
As I reflect on the past year, I’m so thankful and overwhelmed by all the new experiences and memories. From launching new endeavors and engaging new voters to sharing my story with all of you—and hearing about so many of yours as well. Thank you all for joining me on this journey and for sharing so much of yourselves. There’s so much to discover in 2019! #IAmBecoming #top9
757,404 Likes | 1945 days ago | 7,999
My #IAmBecoming 2018 tour could not have been possible without these terrific, trailblazing women. From longtime mentors to friends new and old, I couldn't have done this without each and every one of them! ❤️
674,985 Likes | 1946 days ago | 14,521
That's a wrap! When I think about all the people who have come out to our events over these past few weeks, I think about a little working-class kid named Michelle LaVaughn Robinson—an ordinary girl who had some tales to tell, some failures and some successes, too. She had a lot to learn, a lot to experience, a lot to give—more than she ever could have imagined. I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about my story lately, and what I keep coming back to is that no matter where we came from, we all share so much. People of all backgrounds, skin colors, and political persuasions can relate to feeling uncertain or overwhelmed. We’ve all been a little frustrated by the slow, frustrating growth necessary to get where we want to go. We’ve all struggled with the balancing act that can take over days, years, or decades of our lives. And I want us all to remember that these are the moments and lessons that make us who we are -- every little twist and turn, every little bump and bruise, and ultimately every joys and every triumph, no matter how large or small. So I hope all of you believe in your story. I hope you recognize that what you see as a weakness might actually be a strength. I hope you recognize the power of your voice. And I hope you remind yourself that there isn't one right way to be an American. There isn’t one way to make your contribution in this country. So thank you all for your part of our story. Thank you for being who you are. And to everyone who’s read my memoir, or come to one of our events, or posted something online, thank you for being on this journey with me. Thank you for helping me continue to become. I hope my story can serve as a boost in your own process of becoming, too. I love you all. #IAmBecoming
145,840 Likes | 1947 days ago | 1,284
Let's give it up for all the independent booksellers out there for everything they do, including their support of Becoming these past few months! I hope everybody keeps supporting their neighborhood bookstore this holiday season and all year round! #bookstagram #IAmBecoming
254,893 Likes | 1948 days ago | 1,759
As I told the young ladies I met in Dallas this week, your story is the most powerful part of who you are -- the struggles, failures, successes and everything in between. Remember to always stay open to new experiences and never let the doubters get in the way. You all are so beautiful. #IAmBecoming
195,226 Likes | 1948 days ago | 1,300
Thank you, Dallas, for being on this amazing journey with me! And @valeriebjarrett, thank you for your continued support and for sharing the stage! #IAmBecoming
190,959 Likes | 1949 days ago | 3,196
Here's a little #MondayMotivation from my new friends Rowyn and Celiste. Thanks to everyone who came out to @tatteredcoverbookstore last week in Denver! #IAmBecoming
608,749 Likes | 1951 days ago | 3,880
❤️
247,188 Likes | 1951 days ago | 1,117
Starting @PublicAllies Chicago was the best job I ever had – formative and fulfilling, it was a daily reminder of the power and opportunity I had to create real change. I loved seeing that same spark in the young leaders I met in San Jose. We’ll hear from them again soon.
292,090 Likes | 1953 days ago | 4,183
Bringing some holiday joy—and learning some new moves—with Santa and the kids @childrenscolo Hospital in Denver.
341,263 Likes | 1955 days ago | 2,008
I'm so proud of these tremendous young men from @WayneState here in Detroit. They're working hard to build their community and leave an even stronger city to the generations coming up behind them. Thanks to @keeganmic and my big brother Craig for joining in on the conversation. #IAmBecoming
138,410 Likes | 1956 days ago | 2,768
I’m having so much fun with all of you on my #IAmBecoming tour that I decided to do one final round of events to see folks in some cities we missed! These conversations have been so meaningful for me, and I hope they’ve been meaningful for you all, too. Can’t wait to see even more of you in 2019!
300,177 Likes | 1956 days ago | 3,800
Head over to healthcare.gov before the deadline on December 15! Regram: @barackobama
213,879 Likes | 1963 days ago | 1,580
In 2009, I met so many promising, beautiful, and brilliant girls at Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School in London. These were girls who didn’t come from much—immigrants and minorities, many of them wearing headscarves—but they had all the potential in the world. In them, I saw myself as I’d once been. It was a visit that filled me with hope and shaped who I became as First Lady. Today, I returned there to meet the newest group of girls from EGA and another school I’d visited, Mulberry School for Girls—and I walked away just as hopeful as I was almost a decade ago. To all you inspiring young ladies, stay focused and keep believing in yourselves. Just remember that wherever you come from and wherever you go, you belong. #IAmBecoming
143,803 Likes | 1964 days ago | 1,590
Thank you to @barnesandnoble for hosting me in NYC! I am so thankful to all of you who’ve picked up a copy of my book these past few weeks—I hope each of you finds something in it that’s meaningful for you. #IAmBecoming
356,780 Likes | 1965 days ago | 3,190
To the awe-inspiring ladies of @girlsclubny: Always remember the power and the truth that lies inside your stories. I can’t wait to see what you do in the years ahead. I’m proud of you! #IAmBecoming @samkassdc
2,106,210 Likes | 1965 days ago | 13,720
As a public servant, father, and grandfather, President George H.W. Bush was an extraordinary example for us all. His spirit of service and decency will be missed by many, including our family. I hope his memory will be a guiding light for our country and those around the world.
529,431 Likes | 1967 days ago | 3,412
I love you, Philly! Thank you all for a terrific night, especially @dopequeenpheebs for bringing the energy and the laughs. #IAmBecoming
66,215 Likes | 1967 days ago | 404
I can’t wait to sit down with the Dope Queen herself @dopequeenpheebs right here in Philly! #IAmBecoming
264,962 Likes | 1967 days ago | 1,220
@begirl.world, you ladies truly inspire me. Keep working hard and believing in yourselves because your futures are as big as you can dream. I can’t wait to see you tonight at the Wells Fargo Center! Have fun! #IAmBecoming
104,763 Likes | 1970 days ago | 939
For #GivingTuesday, the @GlobalGirlsAlliance asked young women what they're thankful for this holiday season—and how they plan to pay it forward to girls around the world. I hope you'll follow their lead. Support projects for girls at gofundme.com/globalgirlsalliance.
324,901 Likes | 1972 days ago | 1,900
Thank you @BlackGirlsRock for hosting me at the @BGCBoston earlier today. To the young women I met today, you all blew me away with your stories, poise, and ambition. I’m so excited that you’ll be joining me tonight at @TDGarden! #IAmBecoming
185,540 Likes | 1976 days ago | 1,302
From listening to Stevie Wonder and @earthwindandfire growing up to @Beyonce and @JanelleMonae during my time in the White House, music has always been a defining part of who I've become. Thanks to my friend @Questlove for curating these amazing playlists! Check them out on @spotify and @pandora. #IAmBecoming
193,250 Likes | 1977 days ago | 2,546
What a week! From Chicago to Los Angeles to DC, I want to thank every one of you for picking up the book, diving into the pages, and sharing your stories along the way. Your photos and reflections on your own journeys have been so fun—keep them coming! #IAmBecoming
144,712 Likes | 1977 days ago | 946
98 million adolescent girls around the world aren't in school. Laxmi was one of them—until she enrolled in the Prerna Girls School. That’s when her life changed. Today, Laxmi and others from the @GlobalGirlsAlliance are sharing their stories at the #ObamaSummit. The world is better off because of stories like theirs.
1,351,075 Likes | 1979 days ago | 11,431
Look who dropped by tonight! ❤️ #IAmBecoming
151,198 Likes | 1980 days ago | 1,774
Such an amazing crowd and energy in LA! Thank you to @traceeellisross for bringing the laughs and to each and every one of you for being a part of this incredible journey. #IAmBecoming
183,570 Likes | 1981 days ago | 1,491
Hey, LA! I’m so excited to get started tonight and to have my dear friend @traceeellisross by my side. Looking forward to lots of laughs! #iambecoming
326,651 Likes | 1981 days ago | 1,784
My heart is so full after visiting @paralosninosorg in the Skid Row neighborhood of Los Angeles. With big smiles and even bigger dreams, these beautiful kids and their families are the heart of the America that I’ve gotten to know so well, and that I’ll always believe in. 📚 @penguinrandomhouse
152,566 Likes | 1982 days ago | 1,511
I love you, Chicago! To everyone who came out to our events — the students, the Girl Scouts, the moms and daughters and, as Oprah said, all those woke men — thank you for beginning this journey with me. ❤️#IAmBecoming
175,572 Likes | 1983 days ago | 1,419
Can't wait to sit down with the one and only @oprah in my hometown! #IAmBecoming
516,248 Likes | 1983 days ago | 4,759
It seems like yesterday that @barackobama and I were taking our girls to @57thstreetbooks store. Today, I was there with a book of my own. Thanks to everyone who braved the cold and stopped by. #IAmBecoming
1,093,051 Likes | 1984 days ago | 8,636
Chicago made me who I am. I wanted to pay tribute to the South Side community that poured so much love into me from the very beginning, so I wrote this letter to @chicagodefender. I hope you’ll read it: https://bit.ly/ChicagoDefender #IAmBecoming
360,422 Likes | 1984 days ago | 3,222
We’re finally here! I’m so excited to share my memoir with all of you today! As I’ve reflected on my journey, I’ve learned so much about where I came from, about the people and moments that shaped me, about all of the struggles and the growth along the way. But mostly, I learned to embrace the fullness of my story—every bit of it. As I write in the preface, “Your story is what you have, what you will always have. It is something to own.” I hope this book is meaningful to you, even in the smallest of ways. I hope you find something in it that resonates with your life. Most of all, I hope that each of you can embrace the beauty of who you are, and I wish you all the best in your own process of becoming. Go to becomingmichelleobama.com and share your own #IAmBecoming story with me.
346,291 Likes | 1984 days ago | 1,635
There was no better way to kick off my tour than meeting with these incredible students at my high school alma mater. To the incredible group of young women I met today: Keep reaching for your dreams and remember, embrace your strengths and lay them on the table with pride.The world needs to hear from you! #IAMBecoming
168,866 Likes | 1984 days ago | 1,587
So excited to be in Chicago at Whitney Young High School to kick off my #IAmBecoming tour! The process of writing this memoir allowed me to embrace the fullness of my story—failures, triumphs, and everything in between. I hope it inspires you to find the truth and beauty in your own story, too. Who are you becoming? Share your story with #IAmBecoming.
533,633 Likes | 1985 days ago | 2,114
The service, strength, and resilience of our veterans and their families is one of the great inspirations in my life. As we observe #VeteransDay18, let’s all recommit to serving them as well as they’ve served us.
128,934 Likes | 1990 days ago | 1,440
Thank you to every single one of you who made your voice heard, volunteered, and reached out to your neighbors. You proved that we have the power to change this country—and that every single vote counts. Now it’s up to us to keep building this movement. We’ve only just begun. #WhenWeAllVote
324,863 Likes | 1990 days ago | 1,638
Have you voted? There’s still time to get to the polls. Don't sit this one out and hand over important decisions that affect your life to someone else. If you’ve already voted, check in with your friends and family to make sure they’ve voted, too! Text WHERE to 977-79 to confirm your polling location. #VotingSquad #WhenWeAllVote
343,336 Likes | 1991 days ago | 2,516
#ElectionDay is here! It’s time to vote—get to the polls and make sure every single person you talk to today is doing the same. Confirm your polling place right now at whenweallvote.org. Because #WhenWeAllVote, we all do better.
230,135 Likes | 1992 days ago | 2,197
Tomorrow is #ElectionDay. People all across the country, and from all walks of life, will step into voting booths and make their voices heard. Whether you're voting for the first time or you've been voting your whole life, your community—and our country—needs to hear from you. Because the truth is, our democracy will move on with or without you. If you don't vote, other people will—and you might not like what they decide. Make sure your voice is heard. Get yourself ready to vote and then grab five friends to make sure they do the same: whenweallvote.org 🗳
445,999 Likes | 1998 days ago | 9,055
I can’t wait to share the stage with these wonderful people—and I can’t wait to share my story with all of you on my #IAmBecoming tour! I’ll be having conversations with some of my dearest friends, women who have had my back since before anyone knew my name, and trailblazers who make me laugh and inspire me every day. Can’t wait to kick things off in my hometown!
325,976 Likes | 2001 days ago | 3,931
I'm so excited that these incredible students from across the country will be joining me on my #IAmBecoming tour. The truth is, these young people are a big part of the reason I wrote this memoir in the first place. I hope they can see a little bit of themselves in my story, and I can’t wait to see who they become in the years ahead!
122,609 Likes | 2002 days ago | 1,196
Election Day is almost here, and there are people in all of our lives who are still don't know when, where or how to vote. They need to hear from you—because you are the most trusted voice to get your friends and family out to vote. I’m challenging every single one of you out there to start your @WhenWeAllVote #VotingSquad to get your friends and family ready to vote. That means you, @janellemonae, @tomhanks, @faithhill, @thetimmcgraw, @cp3 and Lin-Manuel Miranda! Get started by building your squad at whenweallvote.org/squad & then tag five friends to get theirs started, too! #SquadGoals
388,617 Likes | 2006 days ago | 5,404
With only 15 days left until Election Day, it's time to get ready to vote! Early voting has already started in states across the country, which means many of you can make your voice heard right now. Whether you vote early, vote by mail, vote absentee, or vote at the polls, I’m counting on you to make your voice heard in these critical midterm elections. This is your chance to have an impact on your community, your state, and your country. Find out everything you need to know at whenweallvote.org. #VoteEarly
674,364 Likes | 2009 days ago | 7,915
The first copies of my book have arrived! It’s a little surreal to hold the finished product in my hands. November 13th is almost here—pre-order your copy today at the link in my bio. #IAmBecoming
936,227 Likes | 2017 days ago | 15,038
Right now, more than 98 million adolescent girls around the world are not in school. I see myself in these girls. I see my daughters in these girls. I know a lot of you see yourselves and your families in them, too. That’s why today on the International #DayoftheGirl, the @ObamaFoundation is launching the @GlobalGirlsAlliance—a program to empower adolescent girls around the world through education. We believe that change happens from the ground up, so we’re working to support grassroots leaders and to spur action from people like you, all around the world. We can accomplish more together than we can on our own, so I hope you’ll join our alliance—because the future of our world is only as bright as our girls. #GlobalGirlsAlliance
109,780 Likes | 2024 days ago | 1,132
#WhenWeAllVote, we get a little respect. So I hope you’ll go to WhenWeAllVote.org or text WeAllVote to 97779 to register right now. Then help your friends do the same.
278,937 Likes | 2029 days ago | 2,394
Thanks to every single one of you — from Wyoming to Arizona to Tennessee — who joined the @WhenWeAllVote Week of Action, getting our families, friends, and neighbors registered and ready to vote on November 6th. I believe we need to help every single American feel like voting is a part of who they are, in this election and every election. It should feel like we’re speaking up for ourselves and our families and what we believe in. In these last few weeks before Election Day, let’s all get out there and make sure that everyone we know is voting on behalf of something that feels important to them —a candidate, an issue, a cause. Send them towhenweallvote.org or text WEALLVOTE to 97779 to get started. That’s how we can all do our part. Let’s get to work!
149,924 Likes | 2033 days ago | 1,945
There's a lot at stake this November. This election is our chance to hold our leaders accountable on everything from our kids' education to the safety of our communities. If we stay home, critical issues that affect all of us will be ignored. But When We All Vote, we have the chance to elect those who share our values and listen to our voices. On National Voter Registration Day, register to vote, make sure your family and friends register too, and get to the polls on Nov. 6. Text WeAllVote to 97779 or head to whenweallvote.org to get started.
213,493 Likes | 2034 days ago | 1,217
Thank you, Las Vegas! It was so much fun to be with you to help kick off @WhenWeAllVote’s Week of Action. Now let’s get working to help everyone we know get registered and ready to vote. I know that there are a lot of folks who think that voting isn’t relevant to their lives. Or they think that it won’t make a difference. Or they think the whole system is rigged. A lot of folks are just trying to get their kids to day care, and get things done at work, and get enough sleep every night. Trust me, I get it. I get being busy, and I definitely get feeling frustrated. But I also know that those frustrations will only get worse if we don’t do something to make it better—and our best chance to do that is by voting and electing leaders who will listen to us, leaders who will take on the issues we care about.
If we’re going to make sure all of our voices are heard this November, we’ve got to make sure everyone is registered to vote. You can register to vote right now—just text WeAllVote to 97779 or visit WhenWeAllVote.org to get started, and make sure all your friends and family do the same. That’s how we’ll show ourselves and each other that our votes do matter, not just in the election this fall, but in every election.
600,317 Likes | 2038 days ago | 16,570
Truly humbled by the response to my upcoming book tour. I can’t wait to share BECOMING with all of you & hope to see you somewhere along the way!
84,399 Likes | 2040 days ago | 1,153
When I was younger, thinking about going to college sometimes gave me a pit in my stomach. I came from a working-class family on the South Side of Chicago. I was young, black, and female. Of course I doubted myself. But I never let those fears get the best of me, in large part because I learned to ask for help when I needed it. I found friends and mentors who helped me realize I belonged. And if I failed—which I did, a lot—I learned to pick myself up and keep going. That’s how I ended up with the education I needed to go on to become a lawyer, a nonprofit leader, a hospital executive, and First Lady of the United States. No matter what kind of life you want to build for yourself, you’ve already got the raw materials inside. But to make your dreams a reality, you’ve also got to continue your education after high school, whether that’s at a community college, a university, or a career & technical program. College is worth it. YOU are worth it. Never, ever doubt that for a second. #BetterMakeRoom @BetterMakeRoom @ReachHigher2020
728,149 Likes | 2045 days ago | 20,078
JOIN ME ON MY BOOK TOUR! www.becomingmichelleobama.com #IAmBecoming I’m from the South Side of Chicago. I went to Princeton and Harvard. I’m a wife, a mother, a daughter, and a sister. I’ve been a lawyer, a nonprofit leader, a hospital executive, and First Lady of the United States. I like to call these my “stats” – the shorthand we all seem to default to whenever we tell our stories. Where are you from? What do you do? What school did you go to? As I’ve written my memoir, BECOMING, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about my story, mining it for the kinds of details I’d usually just brush off or even forget about—the narrow taillights of my father’s car, a talk with my mother on a drive home, the heat of my daughter’s forehead when she ran a fever. And in doing so, I’ve realized that those surface-level “stats” don’t really tell my story at all. This fall, I’d like to share that fuller story with all of you on my book tour. It’s the story of my humdrum plainness, my tiny victories, my lasting bruises, my ordinary hopes and worries. It’s the story of who I am, truly, and I’m proud of it—blemishes and all. Go to BecomingMichelleObama.com to find out where I’ll be and how to get tickets. #IAmBecoming I hope to see you somewhere along the way!
645,836 Likes | 2046 days ago | 7,925
Women of color know how to get things done for our families, our communities, and our country. When we use our voices, people listen. When we lead, people follow. And when we do it together, there’s no telling what we can accomplish. Join me and make sure that our sisters, our children, our congregations, and our neighbors are registered to vote. Register to vote and join us for the @WhenWeAllVote Week of Action: weall.vote/weekofaction
329,228 Likes | 2066 days ago | 4,137
I learned the importance of voting from my father. He had multiple sclerosis, and it was a struggle for him just to get out of bed and get dressed in the morning. But on election day, no matter how sick he felt or how much pain he was in, he got himself to a polling place and cast his vote.
For him, voting was a sacred responsibility because he knew it was the only way to make his voice heard and ensure his values were represented in the halls of power. And that is especially true today in this upcoming election -- and every election. So I hope you'll join me and the rest of the @WhenWeAllVote team during our Week of Action this September to get folks across this country fired up to vote this November. RSVP to an event near you or sign up to host your own: whenweallvote.org/events
873,516 Likes | 2073 days ago | 3,921
Watching Aretha Franklin perform at the White House, and on so many other occasions, made time stand still. @BarackObama and I are holding Aretha’s family in our hearts right now. She will forever be our Queen of Soul.
257,548 Likes | 2082 days ago | 2,982
The Voting Rights Act makes our democracy stronger, giving every American, from all walks of life, the right to vote. I think of all the folks who organized, who marched, who showed up to the polls knowing they could be intimidated, beaten, or turned away. They stood up time and again for their right to vote. I want us all to continue their legacy and ensure every eligible American casts their vote. That’s why I’m hitting the road with the rest of the @WhenWeAllVote team for the Week of Action this September. I’m counting on you to be a part of it. I need all of you out there to help get folks registered, fired up, and ready to spread the word. RSVP or sign up to host your own event in your community: whenweallvote.org/events
2,674,769 Likes | 2085 days ago | 68,323
Happy birthday @BarackObama! The view is always better with you.
113,649 Likes | 2095 days ago | 914
Last week, a few of the #ObamaLeaders sat down with a powerful advocate for youth in Africa, my friend, @charlizeafrica with @ctaop. These women are showing up, speaking out, and working hard to ensure that every young woman in Africa can get the education she deserves. I am awed by these young leaders — and I know you will be too. Visit @ObamaFoundation to learn more about #ObamaLeaders and their work to change the world.
145,627 Likes | 2101 days ago | 1,710
I remember going to the polls with my father every single election. It didn’t matter whether it was raining, snowing, or if he was tired — he always showed up to the polls to cast his ballot. He taught me to never take my right to vote for granted, because he knew that it's the most powerful tool we have to shape the future of our communities and our country. That’s why I make sure to vote in every election, from school board to Senate. And I’m excited to team up with @WhenWeAllVote to encourage all eligible voters to make their voices heard in this election. And I hope you'll join us. Follow @WhenWeAllVote and get registered right now at WhenWeAllVote.org.
893,348 Likes | 2102 days ago | 4,936
Nelson Mandela’s story reminds us that even in the darkest of times, change is always possible— but only if we're willing to work for it and fight for it. On the 100th anniversary of Madiba’s birth, let us honor his memory by recommitting ourselves to the work of his life.
314,734 Likes | 2127 days ago | 2,786
Looking forward to my chat with Dr. Carla Hayden at the American Librarian Association opening session. We’ll be discussing my upcoming memoir, BECOMING – the manuscript is almost done! #BECOMING #ALAAC18
518,207 Likes | 2133 days ago | 2,109
My father, Fraser Robinson, taught me to work hard, laugh often, and keep my word. Every day, I see @barackobama instilling those same values in our girls. #HappyFathersDay to dads everywhere who shape who we are - and who will always live on in our hearts.
451,136 Likes | 2135 days ago | 3,187
To the first-gen students I met today and those across the country, I want you to know how incredibly proud I am of you. I know it wasn’t easy to get to this point, and I know you might be nervous about starting your college journey. But as a first-gen college student myself, I can promise that your education will open doors you never could have imagined. During my time at Princeton, I met so many amazing people, was exposed to all kinds of new ideas and experiences, and learned a lot about who I am and what I wanted to do in the world. So when you face challenges or obstacles, don’t get discouraged — ask for help. Experiencing failure and learning from it is an important part of the college experience, and there are so many people in your corner who are rooting for you and want to see you succeed. I’m one of them! I believe in you, and I cannot wait to see what you will achieve. #BetterMakeRoom
1,237,454 Likes | 2157 days ago | 21,233
I’m thrilled to share with all of you the cover for BECOMING. The process of writing this book has been so personally meaningful and illuminating for me. As I prepare to share BECOMING this fall, I hope you’ll also think about your own story, and trust that it will help you become whoever you aspire to be. Your story is what you have, what you will always have. It is something to own. #BECOMING
2,043,491 Likes | 2157 days ago | 13,822
Home has always been where our family is...It hasn’t mattered whether we’re lounging on a couch in Chicago’s Hyde Park or, as we are here, in the White House. We did our best to make the White House a comfortable place where our girls could climb trees and host slumber parties, where we’d have dinner together as a family, and where we tried to live by the values our parents instilled in us.
3,749,897 Likes | 2158 days ago | 46,733
You can’t tell it from this photo, but Barack woke up on our wedding day in October, 1992 with a nasty head cold. Somehow, by the time I met him at the altar, it had miraculously disappeared and we ended up dancing almost all night. Twenty five years later, we’re still having fun, while also doing the hard work to build our partnership and support each other as individuals. I can’t imagine going on this wild ride with anybody else.
3,183,529 Likes | 2158 days ago | 32,878
This is me at Princeton in the early 1980s. I know that being a first-generation college student can be scary, because it was scary for me. I was black and from a working-class neighborhood in Chicago, while Princeton’s student body was generally white and well-to-do. I’d never stood out in a crowd or a classroom because of the color of my skin before. But I found close friends and a mentor who gave me the confidence to be myself. Going to college is hard work, but every day I meet people whose lives have been profoundly changed by education, just as mine was. My advice to students is to be brave and stay with it. Congratulations to the Class of 2018! #ReachHigher
1,321,322 Likes | 2159 days ago | 10,209
Over the next few days, I’ll be sharing some photos and memories from my book, BECOMING. My father, Fraser, taught me to work hard, laugh often, and keep my word. My mother, Marian, showed me how to think for myself and to use my voice. Together, in our cramped apartment on the South Side of Chicago, my family helped me see the value in our story, in my story, and in the larger story of our country.
438,160 Likes | 2164 days ago | 2,237
I’m so inspired by the young people I met today from the South Side of Chicago, my hometown and the future site of the Obama Presidential Center. These high school seniors have big plans for college and beyond, and I’m so proud of each and every one of them.
1,718,497 Likes | 2168 days ago | 9,975
It’s impossible for any picture to truly capture what my mother, Marian, has meant to me. Happy #MothersDay to all of the moms out there, and especially to my own.
553,966 Likes | 2175 days ago | 3,084
If we want our daughters to dream big, we as women have to dig way down deep and figure out what fights are worth it for our kids. Thank you @USOWomen for convening so many amazing women (and men) - you are the changemakers who will make our girls’ dreams a reality. Your passion, courage and conviction fill me with so much hope for our future. #USOW2018
211,196 Likes | 2175 days ago | 841
Thank you to the fierce and fearless @valeriebjarrett, @tinatchen and @USOWomen for bringing together a crowd of thousands to reflect on the #StateofWomen, and for inspiring the next generation of leaders. #USOW2018
530,449 Likes | 2178 days ago | 3,145
I know how hard all of you have worked to make your dreams of going to college come true. I was once in your shoes, and I know it isn’t easy. But I can tell you that from the South Side of Chicago to Princeton and Harvard and beyond, my education unlocked so many doors for me – and I know it will do the same for you. That’s why #CollegeSigningDay has become one of my favorite traditions. It’s a day when we can all come together to honor your passion and ambition and cheer you on as you get ready to take the next big step in life. I’m so proud of you, and I can’t wait to see everything you achieve! #BetterMakeRoom (📷 credit: @chuckkennedydc)
221,296 Likes | 2179 days ago | 765
Happy College Signing Day!#BetterMakeRoom for the Class of 2022! 🙌🏾
476,146 Likes | 2184 days ago | 2,464
On May 2, I can't wait to celebrate my 5th #CollegeSigningDay in Philly! It’s been amazing seeing this event grow into a nationwide movement where schools and communities celebrate students for committing to a higher education. #fbf @bettermakeroom
1,918,300 Likes | 2187 days ago | 10,740
Barack and I are thrilled to congratulate The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on their newest arrival! We hope to meet him soon for a Kensington Palace pajama party. I’ll wear my robe!
438,636 Likes | 2195 days ago | 3,080
Today, the @ObamaFoundation welcomes the first class of Obama Foundation Fellows. You all give me so much hope. You represent the continuation of the possibilities for change around the world. Barack and I believe in you, and we couldn’t be more excited to watch your work continue to grow. Congratulations!
232,887 Likes | 2220 days ago | 2,300
✨✨✨@usowomen
465,721 Likes | 2221 days ago | 2,981
Thank you Debra, Valerie, and the entire BET family for hosting me tonight at Leading Women Defined. It was an absolute joy to be with such brilliant, bold, inspiring women. Debra, you’re a friend, a mentor, and a role model for so many, including me, and I’m excited to continue this conversation with you and all of the leading women from tonight’s event. #LWDBET
568,143 Likes | 2233 days ago | 4,386
Thank you so much to @laurawbush and the entire @thebushcenter team for a warm welcome in Dallas, and for a wonderful tour of your new exhibit, First Ladies: Style of Influence. #StyleofInfluence
981,958 Likes | 2234 days ago | 5,419
I teamed up with @Refinery29 to mark #InternationalWomensDay and to talk about my passionate commitment to empowering girls around the world through education. This will continue to be a core part of my work at the @ObamaFoundation. Read more at the link in the bio.
1,541,355 Likes | 2236 days ago | 24,466
Parker, I'm so glad I had the chance to meet you today (and for the dance party)! Keep on dreaming big for yourself...and maybe one day I'll proudly look up at a portrait of you!