10:52, 10 June 2026
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
This June we’re celebrating Cynthia Erivo as our Positive Icon of the Month. She deserves more than flowers for all the good she has done throughout her career.
From championing mental health and equality to serving on the (RED) Creative Council in the fight against AIDS, Cynthia continues to use her platform to create meaningful change. While there are more than 5 reasons why Cynthia is deserving of this recognition, we have broken down some main points here.
Formed in 2024, the (RED) Creative Council brings together a range of influential figures considered leaders in their respective creative fields. Their aim is to help raise awareness of AIDS and HIV and improve healthcare systems in the most affected and vulnerable communities.
As a member of this board, Cynthia plays a vital role in the fight against AIDS. As Bono said in the announcement post on IG: “It was artists, playwrights, and other creators who led the fight against AIDS in the 80s — and we need that kind of creative, disruptive thinking today more than ever.”
As a proud queer and bisexual woman, Cynthia has used her platform to emphasise the urgency needed to tackle LGBTQIA+ issues. She has campaigned vigorously for queer refugees, freedom of expression and support primarily for queer youth.
For her years of work, she was awarded a Stephen F. Kolzak Award from GLAAD, an award which recognises media professionals for positively advancing LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance within society.
Despite working on some insanely big projects at the time, Cynthia found time in her busy schedule to train and run for The London Marathon. She participated in both the 2022 and 2026 race, raising money for The King's Trust and the Shameless Fund — which was started by Wicked co-star Jonathan Bailey in 2024.
Cynthia has spoken in numerous interviews about the importance of authentic representation of diverse and underheard stories in entertainment. She especially highlights the importance of advocating for minority youth, playing off her own experiences and a black girl trying to get into the industry.
In 2026, she was appointed vocal coach and artist in residence at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), in addition to working with charities like The Kings Trust, to ensure she can be a guide to the next generation to see themselves reflected both on stage and on screen.
Through jewellery brand Muse's "Have a Heart" initiative, Cynthia was able to be a part of a specially curated jewellery collection that benefited The Loveland Foundation. This charity specifically provides young black women, girls and nonbinary folk access to mental health support, therapy and resources to foster positive healing environments.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
The King’s Trust. This is a charity that was set up by King Charles III to support. young people aged 11 to 30 to build confidence, skills, and gain employment. Learn more here.
GLAAD. This is the world's largest LGBTQ+ media advocacy organisation. It works to ensure fair, accurate, and inclusive representation in entertainment and news to accelerate culture. Discover their work here.
Stonewall UK. This is the UK branch of an international leading charity that supports LGBTQ+ communities. Their work involves contributing to a world where everyone has equal rights. Find out more here.
This positive news article aligns with the UN SDG Reduced Inequalities.
