First-time Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o has been crowned as People Magazine’s ‘Most Beautiful’ woman. “It was exciting and just a major, major compliment,” Nyong’o said of the honor, adding, “I was happy for all the girls who would see me on (it) and feel a little more seen.”

Here’s what the 31-year-old 12 Years a Slave actress and Oscar winner shared with the magazine:

On what she used to think ideal beauty was: “Light skin and long, flowing, straight hair. Subconsciously you start to appreciate those things more than what you possess.”

On her favorite thing: “When I have been called beautiful with not one drop of makeup on. And also before I comb my hair or put on a pretty dress. Happiness is the most important thing.”

So, who else made People’s Most Beautiful list? Amber Heard, Keri Russel, Milly Simms, Jenna Dewan, Mindy Kaling, Pink, Gabrielle Union, Stacy Keibler, and Kerry Washington.