The time is now for the stunning actress Lupita Nyong’o. The Oscar-winning starlet was crowned as this year’s “Most Beautiful” by People Magazine early this morning (April 23).

“It was exciting and just a major, major compliment,” Nyong’o said of landing the cover. “I was happy for all the girls who would see me on (it) and feel a little more seen.”

The 31-year-old actress has turned heads with her grace and stunning red carpet fashion as she represents a push away from the stereotypical types of beauty portrayed in the media.

“Light skin and long, flowing, straight hair,” she said. “Subconsciously you start to appreciate those things more than what you possess.”

The “Most Beautiful” issue hits stands Friday.