Born Edda van Heemstra Hepburn-Ruston on this day in Brussels, Belgium, Audrey Hepburn (1929–1993) was more than a star—she was a light. With her luminous grace, quiet strength, and soulful gaze, she became a symbol of elegance that reached far beyond fashion or fame.

Her journey began in ballet, but destiny found her on stage in Gigi, where novelist Colette recognized her spark. Soon after, she captivated the world in films like Roman Holiday—earning an Academy Award—and continued to enchant in Funny Face and Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Director Billy Wilder once said, “You're really in the presence of somebody when you see that girl.”

But Audrey’s most meaningful role came later in life. In 1987, she became a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF, visiting war-torn and poverty-stricken regions, lending her voice and presence to the world’s forgotten children. Having experienced hunger during World War II, she carried their pain in her heart—and turned it into service.

“People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed and redeemed,” she said. Again and again and again.

Audrey Hepburn lived aloha: with compassion, humility, and joy. Her legacy reminds us that true beauty is how you make others feel—and that the soul, not the spotlight, is where light begins.