Nine “Mothers of the Movement,” whose children ranged from Trayvon Martin to Sandra Bland, speak at the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia. (©2016 Photo by Cheriss May for Howard University News Service)

Nine “Mothers of the Movement,” whose children ranged from Trayvon Martin to Sandra Bland, speak out about violence during the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia. (©2016 photo above by Cheriss May for Howard University News Service. Other photos by Pete Souza/White House, John P. Fleenor/HBO, U.S. Olympic Committee and courtesy of Ameena Matthews/Pause for Peace.)

The very presence of Michelle Obama as First Lady and first in so many ways spoke volumes.

She’s first among First Ladies. She’s a class act. She interrupts violence and save lives. She puts out fires. She’s a visionary who has a way with words and images. She’s a genius. She celebrates our history. She has healing hands. She tells our story. She brings needed health care to thousands. She isn’t so awkward, after all.

She is fierce!

Issa Rae has received Golden Globe and NAACP Image Award nominations for her new comedy series "Insecure." (Photo: John P. Fleenor/HBO)

As our manifesto states in part: “To be fierce is to embrace all that’s wonderful about being a black woman. To live your dreams, celebrate your strengths and appreciate your true beauty. It means being confident and unapologetically you!”

The daughter of a former gang leader, Ameena Matthews turned her own life around and is devoted to saving lives in Chicago.

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Here are 15 women who fit this description and made their mark on 2016. Their stories will inspire you in the new year and beyond!