From supermodel to super mogul, we salute Tyra banks for breaking barriers in the fashion and entertainment world.

Tyra has graced the covers of countless magazines and rocked runways worldwide but for the versatile supermodel, modeling has proven to be just the foundation for her success. The Emmy-nominated talk show hostess has played it smart, parlaying her successful career in fashion into an even more sizable media empire.

Tyra Banks Tip For Success: Rely On Your Work Ethic, Not Your Beauty
"I understood that people really had no idea of what went into modeling, how it was without skill and all dependent on beauty. And nothing could be further from the truth. It's so much more than winning the genetic lottery. You have to be smart, carry yourself with confidence, work at it." From a 2008 interview with the Hollywood Reporter

When we first met Tyra Banks, she was walking the catwalks of European Fashion Week shows at 15 years old. Within Banks' first week in Paris she was booked for an unprecedented 25 shows--a record in the business for a newcomer.

Before long Tyra was taking a turn at acting, winning roles on "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" and in the 1995 John Singleton film Higher Learning.

Famously proud of her curves, in 1996 and 1997 Tyra made history by becoming the first African American woman to grace the covers of GQ and the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue and the Victoria's Secret catalog.

Not content to retire and rest on her laurels as a model, Tyra opted to take what she'd learn and help other girls realize their dreams. In 2000 she launched her show "America's Next Top Model". America's Top Model has since become one of televisions most successful franchises, launching the careers of numerous "it girls".

In 2005, Tyra retired from modeling to focus on her television career. Her last runway show was for Victoria's Secret.

In 2005 Tyra followed in Oprah's billionaire footsteps by taking on her own talk show, the "Tyra Banks Show."

Consistently one of Time Magazine's top ranked most influential people, this year Tyra has already been honored by BET and Essence magazine.

A trailblazer in the truest sense, even though she's already on top, Tyra Banks continues striving toward greater goals.

In honor of Women’s History Month 24 Hour Grind Salutes Women in Entertainment. Check back tomorrow for more!