At the Fortune Most Powerful Women Summit, Selena Gomez opened up about the profound impact of her nearly two-decade-long friendship with Taylor Swift, revealing the crucial industry advice that has shaped her career and business ventures, including Rare Beauty.
The friendship between pop superstars Selena Gomez and Taylor Swift has long been a source of fascination and admiration for fans worldwide. Recently, Gomez pulled back the curtain on the depth of their bond and the invaluable professional guidance she’s received from Swift, shedding light on a relationship built on mutual respect and unwavering support.
Taylor Swift’s Unforgettable Industry Wisdom
During her appearance at the prestigious Fortune Most Powerful Women Summit on October 15, Selena Gomez, 33, shared a piece of industry advice from Taylor Swift, 35, that she vows to “always remember.” Gomez recounted how Swift, whom she lauded as “one of the most brilliant people I’ve ever met,” imparted a simple yet profound truth: “If you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room.”
This insight has clearly resonated with the Rare Beauty founder. Gomez explained that taking these words to heart has influenced her decision to surround herself with “really incredible people.” She emphasized the importance of continuous learning and not being “afraid of all the things that you might lose out on” by embracing collaboration and diverse perspectives.
The summit provided a platform for Gomez to discuss how Swift has consistently supported her entrepreneurial and artistic endeavors, highlighting Swift’s strength “in her lane” and her consistent delivery of “great advice.” Gomez, for her part, simply sees herself as having “been there as a friend,” underscoring the reciprocal nature of their strong connection.
A Friendship Forged in Pop Culture History
The story of Selena Gomez and Taylor Swift’s friendship dates back to 2008, a period when both artists were romantically linked to members of the Jonas Brothers. Swift was dating Joe Jonas, while Gomez was linked to Nick Jonas. This shared experience, surprisingly, became the foundation of their nearly 20-year bond.
Gomez reflected on this unique origin during an August 2025 episode of the Therapuss with Jake Shane podcast, stating, “She and I like to say the best thing we got out of those relationships was each other because it was really sweet.” They “bonded over” their respective breakups with the Jonases and have “stuck around for all the ups and downs that came after,” as detailed by People. Their journey together now spans an impressive 16 years, with countless public and private moments of mutual support.
Milestones and Mutual Cheerleading
Their supportive dynamic extends across their professional and personal lives:
- On Stage Together: Gomez joined Swift on stage during her 2018 Reputation Stadium Tour, a memorable moment for fans.
- Wedding Celebrations: More recently, Swift was a special guest at Gomez’s wedding to Benny Blanco on September 27. Swift shared insights from her wedding speech on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, recalling their 2008 origins and expressing her joy for Gomez, whom she described as “the most elegant, gorgeous — not only bride but just — vision that I’ve ever seen in my life.”
- Album Support: Gomez has been equally vocal in her support for Swift’s musical endeavors. After the release of Swift’s album, “The Life of a Showgirl,” on October 3, Gomez shared a heartfelt message on Instagram: “in honor of showgirl .. blessed to have you by my side almost 20 years later gator! I love you forever and always.” Gomez also played her upcoming album, “I Said I Love You First,” for Swift, noting that Swift “absolutely loved it” – a win because “she’s always honest.”
Selena Gomez’s Multifaceted Career and Philanthropy
Beyond her acting roles in shows like Only Murders in the Building and her singing career, Selena Gomez has established herself as a formidable entrepreneur. Her beauty brand, Rare Beauty, founded in 2020, has achieved an estimated valuation of $2.7 billion by mid-2025, solidifying Gomez’s status as one of the youngest self-made billionaires. A significant portion of her net worth comes from her stake in the company, as reported by Fortune.
Gomez is known for her reserved approach to success, often anticipating challenges even amidst triumph. This mindset drives her commitment to her mission with Rare Beauty. “I think a lot of people would have preconceived ideas of what I’m good at, and I should stay in my lane, and I should do what I’m here to do,” Gomez stated at the summit. “But what I’m here to do is make a difference.”
A crucial part of this mission is mental health awareness. In 2020, Gomez launched the Rare Impact Fund as an extension of Rare Beauty, committing 1% of all sales to the foundation. This initiative aims to raise $100 million for youth mental health services and education globally, supporting 30 nonprofit partners focused on suicide prevention, crisis response, education, and community support.
Gomez also co-founded the mental health and wellness platform Wondermind in 2021 with her mother Mandy Teefey and Daniella Pierson. While Wondermind reportedly faced financial difficulties, Gomez asserted that “most of it is definitely fabricated,” and that she “definitely did [her] part.” She remains a strong advocate for expanding opportunities for mental health exploration.
The Power of Connection: Lessons for Fans
The bond between Selena Gomez and Taylor Swift offers valuable lessons for any fan community. It highlights the importance of genuine support, honest feedback, and shared history in maintaining relationships, especially in demanding industries. Swift’s advice to Gomez is a reminder that personal growth and professional success often stem from humility and a willingness to learn from those around us.
Their story is a testament to the idea that true friendship can endure shifting trends, personal challenges, and monumental successes, remaining a constant source of strength and inspiration for both individuals and their dedicated fan bases.
