Lupita Nyong'o Named People Magazine's 'Most Beautiful' 2014

On being named People‘s Most Beautiful: "It was exciting and just a major, major compliment. I was happy for all the girls who would see me on it and feel a little more seen."

On what she used to think ideal beauty was: "Light skin and long, flowing, straight hair. Subconsciously you start to appreciate those things more than what you possess. My mother always said I was beautiful. And I finally believed her at some point."

On her favorite thing: "When I have been called beautiful with not one drop of makeup on. And also before I comb my hair or put on a pretty dress. Happiness is the most important thing."