Maya Angelou (1928-2014), a renowned writer, poet, and activist, overcame a difficult childhood marked by racism and trauma to become a powerful voice for justice and equality.  Her life experiences, including work as a singer, dancer, and civil rights activist, profoundly shaped her writing, notably her autobiography, *I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings*, and iconic poems like "Still I Rise."  Angelou's work inspires resilience and self-belief, leaving a lasting legacy of courage and the transformative power of words.