Who is your female hero?

I posted this in other forums as well, and perhaps the question has been asked before but I think it is so important and I would really like to know everyone's answers.

I pose my question because the fact of the matter is in today's society it seems like there are not that many truly great female role models. Or at least you certainly have to search hard. Media bombards us with female icons like Paris Hilton or Britney Spears and I question whether these are the women that inspire us or our daughters/neices/grandchildren to become something great.

What I want to know ladies, is what woman out there inspires you? What women do you want as your daughters/neices/grandchilds role model? Who do you want as your own role model?