Welcome to this week’s installment of Geek Girl Authority Crush of the Week, wherein we shine a spotlight on strong women who inspire us. Now, this not only includes fictional female characters in geeky media but creators as well. These ladies are a prime example of female empowerment and how crucial it is for youth to have said example to follow.
DISCLAIMER: The following contains spoilers for Netflix’s adaptation of Shadow and Bone. If you haven’t caught up on seasons one and two, check them out here!
RELATED: Looking for another crush? Check out our Geek Girl Authority Crushes of the Week here!
Inej Ghafa
Fast Facts:
Inej Ghafa (Amita Suman), otherwise known as the Wraith, is a member of the Crows under Kaz (Freddy Carter) and alongside Jesper (Kit Young). She is of Suli descent and was raised performing alongside her family as an acrobat. In her teens, she was captured by slavers, sold to Tante Heleen, and forced to work in the Menagerie. During this time, she met Kaz and began working for him. During season one of Shadow and Bone, Kaz buys Inej’s freedom to allow her to cross the Fold for their mission to kidnap Alina (Jessie Mei Li).
This mission takes Inej and the others on a train ride from hell through the Fold and into Ravka, where she finally comes face to face with Alina. Upon learning she is a true saint, Inej allows her to escape and vows to protect her. This even leads them to assist Alina within the Fold, where she fights against Kirigan (Ben Barnes). They eventually go their separate ways at the end of season one, with Inej choosing to stay with Kaz and Jesper.
RELATED: Keep up on Shadow and Bone with our recaps!
Season two of Shadow and Bone sees the Crows return to Ketterdam, where the dynamic and her freedom have vastly changed. Between facing off against ghosts from Kaz’s past and taking back the Barrell, Inej fights her way through all of it. And that is even before they are tasked with heading to Shu Han on a mission to bring back a legendary sword.
The Real Deal:
Inej Ghafa is the real deal. She is an absolute badass who can disappear in a puff of smoke. And most of the time without the use of smoke too. Inej uses her acrobatic abilities and knowledge with blades to fight her way through the worst of fights. But it isn’t because she’s angry or vengeful. Inej is loyal to those around her and their causes. Every fight is in self-defense and to protect those she holds dear. Inej is also devoutly religious, which can be seen through her support of Alina and her belief that killing unjustly is reprehensible.
RELATED: The Cast of Shadow and Bone Chat Bringing Their Characters to Life in Season 2
Why She Matters:
So, why does Inej Ghafa matter? Inej isn’t just a badass with a knife and scrappy in a fight. She is a fantastic example of a character who can be both strong and devoted to herself and those around her. Her faith drives her forward and gives her a strong moral compass which guides her choices throughout the series. Inej also provides viewers of all ages with a great example of someone loyal to those around her. When Kaz, Jesper, Nina (Danielle Galligan), Wylan (Jack Wolfe) or any member of the Crows, or someone she is close with needs her help, she is there.
So, be like Inej Ghafa. Fight for those around you, stick to your beliefs and follow the path you set in life without hesitation.
https://www.geekgirlauthority.com/geek-girl-authority-crush-of-the-week-alina-starkov/
Who I Am: A nerd by the strictest definition. I enjoy diving straight into my favorite fandoms without a care in the world. I live on video/board games, fantasy movies and TV, and all things geeky.
- May’s Most Anticipated Video Games - April 23, 2025
- Saturday Morning Webtoons: LOVE BITES and ANGEL OF DEATH - April 19, 2025
- Saturday Morning Webtoons: TRANSFERENCE and DEAR SUMMER SKY - April 12, 2025
