Angelina Jolie has long been known for her stellar acting career and global humanitarian efforts, but those who know her best say her true passion lies in motherhood. An exclusive source recently shared with PEOPLE that the 50-year-old actress has an 'amazing relationship' with her daughter Zahara, 21, and strives to be fully present for all her children.
The insider revealed that Jolie has been unwavering in her support for Zahara throughout her time at Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia. 'Angie has showed up for pretty much everything — move-in weekend, sorority events, milestone celebrations and now graduation,' the source said. 'She's been very supportive and involved. She wanted Zahara to have the best experience, and she has an amazing relationship with Zahara.'
Zahara Jolie-Pitt was adopted from Ethiopia at six months old and is one of six children Jolie shares with ex-husband Brad Pitt. The family includes Maddox, 24; Pax, 22; Shiloh, 19; and twins Vivienne and Knox, 17. According to the source, Jolie encourages each child to fully embrace their individuality. 'She really encourages all the kids to embrace their individualities. She always loved their different personalities, interests and talents. She makes an effort to support what matters to each of them,' the insider added.
Motherhood is clearly a central pillar of Jolie's life. The source noted that the children often tell her she is the best mom, which brings her to tears. 'She's the kind of mom who genuinely wants to be present for the important moments in their lives, and the kids love her. They often tell her she's the best mom, and it makes her tear up. Motherhood is very emotional for her. It makes her the happiest.'
This sentiment was echoed directly by Zahara during a recent appearance at a mother-daughter brunch hosted by the Pearls of Purpose Foundation in Atlanta. On April 26, Jolie and Zahara attended the event, where Zahara addressed the audience about their unique bond. 'When asked to speak with you all today on the value of mother-daughter relationships, it felt challenging to find the words,' Zahara began, according to a video shared on Instagram. 'Not challenging because I don't value it, but because my mom and I have a unique, almost kindred, relationship that can be hard to put into words.'
Zahara went on to reflect on their shared history. 'Our love for each other is a found one. I was adopted at 6 months old and given some of the most special and loving people as my siblings, with a mom who raised us on the value of helping others, being kind and always striving for growth as people. These values may sound simple, but in a world where kindness is overlooked and helping others comes at a cost, I am grateful to have had a role model to show me what it looks like to be a decent human being.'
She described her mother as a superhero who somehow manages everything. 'She's the most selfless, loving and understanding woman who I get to call my mom.' Zahara acknowledged the challenges of sharing a famous parent with the world, but emphasized that Jolie never stopped being curious about her college life and sorority experiences. 'This has never stopped my mom from being curious about all that I'm learning in and outside of my classrooms at Spelman and having many understandable questions about sorority life and my experiences. My family embraces the newness and strives to understand these meaningful organizations in my life as I share my experiences.'
Zahara also credited her mother's humanitarian work as a major influence. Watching Jolie's global efforts has 'rubbed off' on her, and as the oldest sister, she often took on a 'second mother role' to her younger siblings. 'I loved caring for my younger siblings and mirroring the care and compassion my mom showed us,' she said.
Angelina Jolie's commitment to her children is deeply intertwined with her broader life philosophy. Beyond her Oscar-winning performances in films like Girl, Interrupted, Changeling, and Eternals, Jolie has dedicated years to humanitarian work through the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and her own foundation. She has visited refugee camps in more than 30 countries, advocating for human rights, education, and medical care. These values are clearly instilled in her children, who have accompanied her on various missions and witnessed her compassion firsthand.
The Jolie-Pitt children have each developed their own interests. Maddox studied biochemistry at Yonsei University in South Korea, Pax has pursued photography and art, Shiloh is known for her love of dance and fashion, and the twins are exploring their own paths. Zahara's graduation from Spelman, a historically black women's college, was a proud milestone. She has been active in campus life, joining the Delta Sigma Theta sorority and participating in events that celebrate African American culture and leadership.
Jolie's approach to parenting emphasizes authenticity and presence. She has mentioned in interviews that she aims to provide a stable, loving home despite the pressures of fame. The source confirmed that Jolie 'really encourages all the kids to embrace their individualities' and 'makes an effort to support what matters to each of them.' This includes attending school functions, family trips, and offering guidance as they navigate their own identities.
Zahara's heartfelt speech at the brunch highlighted how her mother's example shaped her own desire to help others. 'I loved caring for my younger siblings and mirroring the care and compassion my mom showed us,' she said. For Jolie, being a mother is not just a role but a calling that brings her immense joy. The source noted that the children often express their love and appreciation, which deeply moves her.
The event in Atlanta was just one of many ways Jolie shows up for her daughter. From move-in day at Spelman to sorority initiations and now graduation, she has been a constant presence. Zahara's graduation this spring marked a major step for the young woman, who now looks forward to a future shaped by the values her mother exemplified.
Jolie's dedication extends to all her children. She has been seen at Shiloh's dance recitals, Pax's art exhibitions, and family outings with the twins. Despite the challenges of co-parenting with Brad Pitt after their highly publicized divorce, Jolie remains focused on creating a nurturing environment. She frequently shares glimpses of family moments, whether it's cooking together or celebrating holidays, always emphasizing the importance of togetherness.
The insider summed up Jolie's parenting style by saying she is 'the kind of mom who genuinely wants to be present for the important moments in their lives.' This philosophy is evident in every aspect of her life. Whether she is on a film set or at a refugee camp, her children are her priority. Zahara's touching words about her mother being a 'role model' for being a 'decent human being' reflect the deep respect and admiration she has for Jolie.
As Zahara embarks on her post-college journey, she carries with her the lessons her mother taught her: kindness, compassion, and a commitment to making the world a better place. Jolie, meanwhile, continues to balance her career with her most important role: being a present, loving mother. The source emphasized that motherhood 'makes her the happiest,' and it is clear that her children feel the same way.
Angelina Jolie's relationship with Zahara is a testament to the power of found family and unconditional love. From adoption to college graduation, their bond has only grown stronger. Jolie's example of showing up, being curious, and embracing individuality is a profound one for parents everywhere. And for Zahara, having a mother who not only loves her but also inspires her to be a force for good is the greatest gift of all.
Source: MSN News