GAZELLE MAGAZINE October 2018 | Page 61

FASHION Laila Ali is a Knockout By Vi c k i Fr e n c h B e n n i n g t o n L aila Ali has made a name for herself way beyond being the daughter of arguably one of the most famous sportsmen of all time: heavyweight boxer Muhammad Ali. A former pro boxer herself, Laila Ali competed from 1999 to 2007, retiring as an undefeated champion. She now spends a great deal of her time empowering other women to be strong and independent. Her work through The Maxx You Project, created by T.J.Maxx, inspires women to focus on their individuality and pursue their dreams, and embodies the beauty’s own beliefs of tapping into your best self. Also a healthy lifestyle advocate, Ali produced the cookbook, “Food for Life,” and shares her knowledge of good nutrition, interior decorating, family tips and self-improvement on “Home Made Simple” on the OWN network. On her blog at lailaalilifestyle.com, she shares some of her personal workout routines, recipes and DIY ideas. As the past president of the Women’s Sports Foundation, she advocates equality for women in professional sports, and encourages programs for young women promoting confidence, health and strength through sports. On top of her busy work schedule, she is a wife and mother, married to former NFL star and current sports TV analyst Curtis Conway. They have two young children: son, Curtis Jr., and daughter, Sydney. Ali took the time to share with us a few of her beliefs, tips and secrets for living your best life. Visit maxxyouproject.com for more information on connecting and collaborating with other incredible women – just like you. Q: How did you become involved with The Maxx You Project and how do the workshops empower women who feel stereotypes and society are holding them back? Laila: T.J.Maxx is creating a community that encourages women to embrace their individuality – together. Despite the fact that every woman has something that makes her special, new research shows that over half of women filter their individuality just to succeed in society. But the good news is that 75 percent of women say that when they see others being true to who they are, they’re inspired to do the same. SAVVY I SOPHISTICATED I SASSY 59