Yara Shahidi inspired graduating high school seniors during her commencement speech at Westridge School in Pasadena, California.

The Grown-ish star referenced her character Zoey Johnson in her speech and explained what she has learned through her life experiences. One of the most valuable lessons she has learned through her years in education is how she could care about the world around her.

Shahidi shared two photos from the graduation on Instagram, with caption, “So beyond grateful to have been chosen to deliver the commencement speech to the brilliant Westridge Class of 2019 ? This compassionate and driven class of inspiring humans has made it their mission to move forward as contributors to our community at large, even raising money throughout their senior year to provide more educational scholarship opportunities for classes to come #inspiring ⭐️”

The school also made an Instagram post about Shahidi’s presence at the special day! They posted two photos, with the captions, “We want to extend a special thank you to ”black-ish” and “grown-ish” actress and activist Yara Shahidi (@yarashahidi), who was our commencement speaker this year! Yara, we know your powerful words on the importance of coming together “not in spite of, but BECAUSE of our differences” will stay with our community and the Class of 2019 for a long time. Thank you for joining us in sending these bright young people into the world! #westridgeschool #strivetorise.”

Shahidi helped the graduating class celebrate with a streamer and confetti ending moment to their exciting day!
Watch Yata Shahidi’s full speech in the video below!
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Marissa Donovan is a Entertainment & Relationship Writer at Feeling The Vibe Magazine. Colby-Sawyer College Alum (2018) – Creative Writing. Researching the latest celebrity news stories just for you. Lover of pizza and warm days spent at the beach. For tips or comments, email Marissa at Marissa@feelingthevibe.com.