What You Never Knew About Zahara Jolie-Pitt
Zahara Marley Jolie-Pitt is the eldest daughter of Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt. Although she manages to keep a relatively low profile, the Ethiopian-born teen has plenty to boast about. From her global humanitarian work to her legendary style, this young powerhouse has achieved quite a lot — and she's just getting started.
Although she seems to be the perfect synthesis of her mom's best qualities, it's clear that Zahara has also grown into her own. In a 2020 Time 100 talk with climate activist Vanessa Nakate, Angelina Jolie poured over her love and admiration for her eldest daughter. The filmmaker said, "My daughter is from Ethiopia ... and I have learned so much from her. She is my family, but she is an extraordinary African woman and her connection to her country, her continent, is her own and it's something I only stand back in awe of" (via People).
Despite being known for her illustrious family ties, there is so much more to Zahara's story.
Zahara was believed to have been an orphan when adopted
Public interest has swirled around Zahara Jolie-Pitt ever since she joined the Jolie-Pitt family at 6 months old. Angelina Jolie has remained open about the circumstances behind the adoptions of Zahara and her brothers, Maddox and Pax Jolie-Pitt. In an interview with Vogue India, Angelina spoke of valuing her adopted children's cultural identities, saying, "When they are from another race and foreign land, that mystery, that gift, is so full. For them, they must never lose touch with where they came from. ... Honour them. Learn from them. It's the most amazing journey to share. They are not entering your world, you are entering each other's worlds."
Angelina Jolie had previously believed Zahara to be an orphan. However, in 2007, Reuters found Zahara's birth mother, Mentewab Dawit. In a harrowing interview, Dawit explained that she had been a victim of sexual violence and was unable to care for Zahara at the time of her birth. To make matters worse, the infant was sick and malnourished. "I was desperate and decided to run away, rather than see my child dying," she told the publication. Fearing Dawit had died, her mother put the child up for adoption.
Since the news broke, Zahara's birth mother has spoken to several news outlets, maintaining that she is thankful for the life that Zahara was given. Reflecting on the adoption, Dawit told Reuters, "I wish them both all the success they deserve."
Zahara's brother Maddox was involved in her adoption
Maddox Jolie-Pitt may have been the first to know that Zahara Jolie-Pitt was a perfect fit for their family. Maddox and Angelina Jolie visited an Ethiopian orphanage in 2005, where they saw Zahara for the first time. Maddox, who was only 3 years old, was instantly smitten with his soon-to-be sister. He also expressed concern for her, recognizing that she was ill and needed care.
Maddox was right. Soon after Zahara's adoption, the distressed family checked her into a New York City Hospital to be treated for dehydration and a salmonella infection. After a rocky start, baby Zahara recovered and the happy family was finally able to start their lives together. Zahara was officially adopted by Angelina Jolie in July 2005. Brad Pitt then adopted the girl in early 2006.
In 2005, All Star magazine spoke with orphanage workers who had observed Angelina and Maddox as they got to know their newest addition. One caregiver reportedly told the outlet, "When Maddox looked at the baby, he blew a kiss as if he was saying that was the girl who he wanted for his sister." These sweet beginnings laid the groundwork for what is surely an unbreakable bond between the siblings. The two are still close as evidenced by Maddox returning home from Yonsei University in South Korea to help Zahara get settled at college.
Zahara speaks French
The Jolie-Pitt kids are famously well-rounded. From their scholastic achievements to their interests in sports, fashion, and humanitarianism, Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt's kids seem to have the world at their fingertips. So it's no surprise that all of the siblings have taken to learning new languages. In an interview with BBC Radio 4 (via Us Weekly) in 2016, Angelina revealed that Zahara Jolie-Pitt chose to learn French. Magnifique!
While talking with the BBC, Angelina shared insight on how her children relate to people from other cultures, particularly those impacted by war and other humanitarian crises. The actress said, "I want them to meet people around the world and have so much admiration and respect for people suffering different realities and surviving them with such grace and dignity" (via E! News). Surely Zahara's francophone skills will be a huge asset as she continues her travels and her humanitarian work.
Her zodiac sign is Capricorn
Zahara Jolie-Pitt was born on January 8, 2005, making her a Capricorn. Like others born under this astrological sign, which spans from December 22 to January 19, Zahara is likely to be determined, hard-working, and goal-oriented. Capricorn is associated with the Earth element, which is known for practicality and reliability. If Zahara's personality is anything like her zodiac sign predicts, then friends and family are incredibly lucky to have such a kind and nurturing soul in their lives.
Ambitious and persistent, Capricorns are not afraid to put in hard work, and they know how to achieve results. With all of these powerful traits, Zahara's success seems written in the stars. This young woman is sure to conquer anything she puts her mind to — you can always count on a Capricorn to take charge. Strong leadership skills seem evident in Zahara, who has already been involved in political and humanitarian action at home and abroad. Although their personalities might occasionally clash, Zahara and her Gemini mom, Angelina Jolie, probably balance each other out very well.
She's designed her own jewelry line
Zahara Jolie-Pitt is known for her dazzling red carpet looks but in 2019, she sent fashion lovers into even more of a frenzy when she stepped out at the premiere of "Maleficent: Mistress of Evil" in gorgeous jewelry that she designed herself (via People). Her jewelry line, which she named the Zahara Collection, was a collaboration with Robert Procop, the famed jeweler who once designed Brangelina's engagement ring. The young jewelry designer's red carpet look showcased several pieces from her upcoming collection, including earrings, a bracelet, and an elegant citrine ring.
Best of all, Zahara chose to donate all of the proceeds from the Zahara Collection to charity. House of Ruth Shelters, an organization that provides transitional housing for domestic abuse survivors, was the beneficiary. It seems that Zahara has certainly inherited her mom's eye for fashion, as well as her heart for philanthropy.
She has acting credits
In a 2019 interview with People, Angelina Jolie revealed that none of her children are interested in acting. Of their future aspirations, she told the magazine, "[They're into] business, humanitarian affairs, things like that."
Still, growing up so close to the industry has surely made an impression on the Jolie-Pitt kids. Over the years, a few of Angelina Jolie's multi-talented minis have tried dipping their toes into various aspects of showbiz. In 2017, Angelina's son Maddox Jolie-Pitt served as an executive producer on "First They Killed My Father," a film about the Cambodian genocide which took place in the 1970s. Pax Jolie-Pitt also worked on the project, acting as a set photographer. At just 2 years old, Shiloh Jolie-Pitt appeared in the 2008 film, "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button." Following in her big sister's footsteps, Vivienne Jolie-Pitt portrayed a young Aurora in 2014's "Maleficent."
In 2013, Zahara Jolie-Pitt had her moment. She showed off her voice acting skills as Meng Meng in "Kung Fu Panda 3." The cast included her siblings Pax, Shiloh, and Knox Jolie-Pitt, as well as her mom, Angelina Jolie. Jack Black, Jackie Chan, Lucy Liu, and a host of other superstars also lent their voices to the animated movie. In 2014, Zahara also appeared in the uncredited role of "girl" in "Maleficent." Credit to Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt for allowing their kiddos to explore show business while also encouraging them to find and pursue their own passions.
She's met the first female president of Ethiopia
Angelina Jolie encourages Zahara Jolie-Pitt to stay connected with her Ethiopian roots. Zahara has visited her country of birth several times since her adoption. In 2019, she had an extra special visit when she met with Sahle-Work Zewde, Ethiopia's first female president. Accompanied by her mother and sister, Shiloh Jolie-Pitt, the three sat down with Zewde to discuss the country's history and culture through women's eyes.
The women addressed important topics that impact Ethiopian society, such as public health and education. They also discussed issues like access to sanitary pads, as Ethiopian women and girls are often forced to stay home from school when menstruating due to a lack of access to menstrual products. This is a common issue in many parts of the country, and finding solutions would help ensure that more Ethiopians can receive an education.
She's friends with Millie Bobby Brown
Celebrity kids really know how to have fun — and Zahara Jolie-Pitt proved it in a series of photos that show her palling around with "Stranger Things" star Millie Bobby Brown. In 2019, Brown gushed about her friendship with Zahara and Shiloh Jolie-Pitt on Instagram, posting a photo of the trio along with a caption that read "Best friends 4L" (via Hollywood Life).
Some of the trio's best gal pal moments have included late-night snack runs, dinner dates, and a trip to Starbucks. In 2019, Zahara and Shiloh supported their bestie at the "Stranger Things" Season 3 premiere party, which took place on the Santa Monica pier. "It was really normal and really nice to see that they could all be out of the limelight for a few moments and just have a good time and be young teen girls," an unnamed source allegedly told Hollywood Life.
It's possible that the siblings met Brown through Angelina Jolie, as both she and Brown work with the United Nations. Just like Zahara, the enterprising star has a hand in multiple projects, including her makeup line, Florence By Mills. Perhaps the A-listers connected over their endless talents and interests.
She's close with her sister, Shiloh
The Jolie-Pitts are a tightly-knit family, but Zahara Jolie-Pitt seems to have a built-in best friend in her sister Shiloh Jolie-Pitt. Born less than two years apart, the sisters share many common interests — like their mutual passion for humanitarianism. Both of the accomplished siblings are lifelong human rights advocates who often join their mom abroad to address poverty, displacement, and public health issues.
Zahara and Shiloh also bond over shopping excursions. The duo is often photographed out and about with their mom carrying handfuls of shopping bags. In January 2021, the siblings, who were both born in Africa, were spotted browsing an Ethiopian boutique in Los Angeles. The young fashion icons also enjoy upcycling their mom's older red-carpet looks. In October 2021, Shiloh appeared in a stunning black and white dress originally worn by Angelina Jolie. The same year, Zahara stepped out in a show-stopping metallic beaded gown handed down from her mom.
More than anything, it seems like the sisters genuinely enjoy each other's company. Even when they're not traveling abroad or hitting the LA shopping scene, they find joy in quiet moments together. In September 2021, Angelina posted Instagram photos of her eldest girls enjoying some downtime together at home.
She is an ace at organization
In a 2020 interview with E! News, Angelina Jolie got real about the excitement and mayhem that come with having a large family. Sharing a glimpse into their daily lives, she explained, "You know, I've never really been one who valued relaxation. I like chaos."
The star described how she balances work with family time, saying, "I've been on high level meetings where there's dogs and balls and kids and things," she said in regard to their home life. "You kind of just enjoy being human with everybody else and laughing through it." Still, even those who thrive in chaos need a little bit of order sometimes. Luckily for Angelina, Zahara Jolie-Pitt seems to help balance out the upheaval with her amazing organizational skills.
While Angelina tries to provide structure for her children in the form of schedules, she has admitted that Zahara is the queen of keeping their home organized. Jolie revealed to E! News that her oldest daughter is the most organized member of the Jolie-Pitt clan. In fact, the mom of six raved, "My daughter Zahara is better at organizing things than I am."
A special program is named after her
For decades, Angelina Jolie has championed human rights. From supporting refugee children to advocating for women's liberation, the star's humanitarian efforts span across many nations and causes. On World Refugee Day 2021, Jolie spoke about the conditions that fuel her fight, remarking, "The way we as an international community try to address conflict and insecurity is broken. It is erratic, it is unequal, it is built on inherited privilege, it is subject to the whim of political leaders, and it is geared towards the interests of powerful countries, including my own, at the expense of others" (via UNHCR).
In 2008, Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt donated $2 million to help fight tuberculosis and AIDS in Ethiopia. At the time, more than 900,000 Ethiopian children had been orphaned by AIDS. As parents of Ethiopian-born Zahara Jolie-Pitt, it's easy to see why the nation's public health crisis is close to their hearts. As a gesture to their beloved daughter, Angelina and Brad created the Zahara Program, which funded an AIDS and tuberculosis clinic in Ethiopia.
She is following in Angelina Jolie's activist footsteps
Just like her mother, Zahara Jolie-Pitt seems devoted to creating positive change in the world. In 2021 and early 2022, the teen joined her mother in Washington, D.C., as an advocate for the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act, a measure that aims to address and prevent domestic violence. According to the National Network to End Domestic Violence, the bill also contained stronger measures to support LGBTQ+ individuals and to expand tribal jurisdictions. The VAWA Reauthorization Act was signed into law in March 2022, per The White House.
In February 2022, Angelina Jolie posted to Instagram about her visit to D.C. with her daughter. "Heading into the Senate's Introduction of the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act, I'm grateful and humbled to join with dedicated advocates and legislators. I'm also glad to share in the advocacy with Zahara — and for her presence to calm my nerves before today's press conference."
In 2018, the young activist also joined her mother and sister Shiloh Jolie-Pitt at a Syrian refugee camp in Jordan. People magazine caught up with the trio on the trip and captured a photo of Angelina Jolie and her daughters smiling while seated around a table with Syrian women. In another image, Zahara and Shiloh can be seen feeding chickens at the camp. With the influence of her mother, who has completed approximately 60 field missions with the UN Refugee Agency, we're sure to see more humanitarian work from Zahara in the future.
She goes to Spelman College, a historically Black women's university
The future looks bright for Zahara Jolie-Pitt, who began her college journey in 2022 at the esteemed Spelman College. Founded in 1881, Spelman is a historically Black women's college that specializes in science and liberal arts. Zahara joins a long list of iconic women with roots at the Atlanta, Georgia, university — including Dr. Bernice King, Stacy Abrams, and writer Alice Walker. In late July 2022, Angelina posted a photo on Instagram of Zahara smiling with a group of her friends, announcing that her "Spelman girl" was off to college.
To celebrate the exciting new chapter, the pair attended a welcome event hosted by Spelman Alumni, where they got to know some of Zahara's administrators and classmates. The mother-daughter duo was even captured on video dancing to the electric slide during the festivities. The priceless moment went viral on TikTok.
Everyone in the Jolie-Pitt family seemed to be thrilled for the college freshman. In a red carpet interview in August 2022, Brad Pitt boasted about Zahara, saying "She's so smart. She's going to flourish even more at college. It's an exciting and beautiful time to find her own way and pursue her interests. I'm so proud" (via Vanity Fair).
She's breaking into the fashion world alongside her mother
In 2023, Angelina Jolie made her first foray into fashion by founding Atelier Jolie, a brand that attempts to bring a socially conscious, sustainable perspective to its designs. According to Vogue, Atelier Jolie will also prioritize community outreach by hosting a gallery space for New York artists as well as a café where proceeds are donated to refugee organizations.
Along with her brother Pax Jolie-Pitt, Zahara has played a large role in Atelier Jolie, working with her mother to bring the vision to life every step of the way. She helped her mom select the location for Atelier Jolie's storefront — 57 Great Jones Street in New York's NoHo District. After plenty of scouting, Angelina Jolie simply knew that the building was perfect. "I can be very impulsive, but Zahara is so grounded, decisive, and thoughtful," Jolie said. "When she agreed, I felt we were both decided."
Zahara also helped ensure that the brand is inclusive of all skin tones. It's thanks to her input that Atelier Jolie's silk slip dress comes in a variety of "nude" colors, ranging from a pale peach to a dark brown. In Vogue, Angelina Jolie spoke about how her daughter's difficulty finding products that matched her complexion inspired her to challenge industry standards. "Obviously, as a white woman, I've never had this experience," she said. "It never crossed my mind until we went shopping together and I saw that there's so much room for improvement."