Zoe Saldaña became the first American of Dominican origin to receive this award, offering key takeaways that could echo with women of color in their careers.

Zoe Saldaña earned her first Academy Award for best supporting actress in “Emilia Pérez,” capping an already accomplished awards season Sunday. “Mami! Mami!” a tearful Saldaña said. “My mom is here. My whole family is here.

Zoë Saldaña won Best Supporting Actress at the 2025 Oscars and apologized for the film’s portrayal of Mexico amid controversy.