Anime That Gave Us a Black Female Sensei Everyone Respects

by

Anime has become much more diverse over the years, with characters coming from all sorts of backgrounds. Recently, we’ve seen more strong Black female characters who act as mentors, earning respect through their intelligence and fighting skills. They often take on leadership roles – as teachers, commanders, or guides – helping the main characters grow and succeed. These women are powerful and skilled, challenging traditional roles and leading with confidence. Here’s a look at some anime featuring these impressive figures.

‘Bleach’ (2004–2012)

Yoruichi Shihouin is a beloved and important teacher to Ichigo Kurosaki, considered one of the best mentors in action-packed anime and manga. Once a captain in the elite Gotei 13, she earned the nickname ‘Goddess of Flash’ due to her incredible speed. Yoruichi helps Ichigo master his Bankai quickly, even if it means using risky and unusual training techniques. Despite her cheerful and playful nature, she’s a formidable fighter who inspires both awe and fear in everyone she meets.

‘Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation’ (2021–Present)

Ghislaine Dedoldia is a highly skilled sword master and bodyguard, crucial to the development of both Eris and Rudeus. Known as the Sword King, she has incredibly sharp senses. While her training methods are tough and straightforward, she genuinely cares about the well-being and progress of those she protects. Ghislaine shows that real strength comes from self-discipline and a strong commitment to protecting others, no matter the cost.

‘Soul Eater’ (2008–2009)

Mira Naigus is a teacher and nurse at the Death Weapon Meister Academy. She teams up with Sid Barrett to train students in combat and survival skills. Known for always being bandaged and staying calm under pressure, Mira plays a vital role in preparing the students for the dangerous challenges ahead.

‘Fire Force’ (2019–Present)

Princess Hibana starts as an enemy but quickly becomes a key ally and leader in the Special Fire Force. As the commander of Company 5, she’s a powerful and decisive leader, using her unique, flower-shaped flames in battle. Hibana overcame a difficult past, rising to a position of power through her intelligence and strong will. She also uses her scientific expertise to understand the mystery of spontaneous human combustion, discovering things others overlook.

‘The Promised Neverland’ (2019–2021)

Sister Krone comes to Grace Field House to help Isabella care for the children, but she quickly becomes a powerful and intimidating figure. She’s incredibly strong and very intelligent, matching the brightest kids at the orphanage. Krone reveals the harsh truth about their lives through her actions and clever manipulation. Driven by her desire for advancement, she actively tries to change the rules of the dangerous world she lives in.

‘Pokémon the Series: Black & White’ (2010–2013)

Lenora is the Gym Leader of Nacrene City and a significant challenge for Ash as he pursues his goals. She also runs the city’s museum, skillfully managing both Pokémon battles and historical preservation. When trainers challenge her, she doesn’t just test their Pokémon’s power – she also requires them to think strategically and adjust their approach. Lenora is known for being both supportive and firm, earning the respect of trainers and the people of Nacrene City.

‘Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion’ (2006–2008)

Villetta Nu begins the series as a pilot for Britannia, but her experiences lead her to a new life. By the end, she’s a P.E. teacher at Ashford Academy, teaching with the discipline of a soldier. Her story explores difficult issues of loyalty and bias as she finds fulfillment and happiness in her role, bringing the same focused energy to the gym that she once had on the battlefield.

‘Hunter x Hunter’ (2011–2014)

Canary is a skilled, young butler who helps protect the Zoldyck family estate. She’s a tough trainer, challenging Gon and his friends when they try to get inside, pushing them to prove their strength and willpower. She’s incredibly powerful, easily able to defeat many experienced hunters without much effort. Canary shows the main characters that having a strong spirit is just as vital as being physically strong in their dangerous world.

‘Berserk’ (1997–1998)

Casca is the sole female leader in the original Band of the Hawk, and her troops deeply respect her. She’s a brilliant tactician and a skilled swordswoman, considered one of the best fighters in the mercenary group. Her leadership is key to the band’s successes throughout the Hundred Year War. Casca also acts as a mentor to Guts, helping him realize the importance of fighting for something bigger than just staying alive.

‘Mobile Suit Gundam’ (1979–1980)

Lalah Sune is a spiritual guide and mentor to both Char Aznable and Amuro Ray. She’s a powerful Newtype, able to connect with people through telepathy and empathy. Her deep understanding of the universe and people influences the beliefs of those close to her. Even after her death, Lalah remains a famous and influential figure, and her ideas continue to resonate throughout the series’ conflicts.

‘Pokémon Sun & Moon’ (2016–2019)

Olivia is a respected leader on Akala Island, known as the Kahuna, and one of the strongest trainers in the Alola region as a member of the Elite Four. She’s an expert in Rock-type Pokémon and helps guide new trainers as they complete the Island Challenge. While she’s usually cheerful and outgoing, Olivia is a fierce competitor in battle. She makes sure trainers earn their progress and proves they’re ready to move forward.

‘Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion’ (2006–2008)

Rakshata Chawla is the brilliant mind and lead scientist behind the Black Knights’ technology. She designs their powerful Knightmare Frames and weapons, giving the rebellion a fighting chance against Britannia. As a mentor, she uses her expertise in engineering and physics to guide her team, helping them overcome Britannia’s stronger military. Known for her ever-present pipe, Rakshata approaches warfare with a calm and insightful demeanor.

‘Basquash!’ (2009)

Miyuki Ayukawa is a brilliant mechanic and the technical expert behind the main team. She’s responsible for keeping their Bigfoots in top condition and helping them improve for the fast-paced sport of Basquash. Miyuki’s engineering skills are exceptional – she consistently finds solutions to difficult problems, providing the crucial support and know-how the pilots need to pull off their incredible moves.

‘Michiko & Hatchin’ (2008–2009)

Michiko Malandro is a former convict who’s become a protective and guiding force in her daughter Hatchin’s life. Though not a conventional teacher, she teaches Hatchin how to survive and be independent through real-world experiences. Michiko’s strict but loving approach helps Hatchin mature quickly and learn to rely on herself. She’s a commanding presence who refuses to conform to societal expectations and is determined to live life on her own terms.

‘Darker Than Black’ (2007)

I’ve always been impressed by April. She’s a really experienced contractor who works alongside the MI6 team, and she’s incredibly supportive of her colleagues, especially with her amazing ability to control the weather. It’s not just about the power, though – she can conjure up rain or even hurricanes to help the team strategically, and they really depend on it. What I admire most is how she carries herself; she’s so calm and grounded, acting as a mentor and steadying influence, especially during those intense, high-pressure spy missions. She leads by example, and it’s clear she genuinely cares about guiding the newer agents.

‘Super Dimension Fortress Macross’ (1982–1983)

Claudia LaSalle is a key officer on the SDF-1 Macross, holding a high rank within the United Nations Spacy. She expertly manages the ship’s navigation and weapons during battles in space. Claudia is a close friend and trusted advisor to Misa Hayase, offering guidance on both leadership and personal matters. Her calm demeanor and experience make her an inspiring figure to the newer crew members.

‘Dragon Ball Super’ (2015–2018)

Heles is the supreme ruler and God of Destruction for Universe 2. While she cherishes beauty and love, she’s also incredibly powerful and capable of destroying entire civilizations if she deems it necessary. Her warriors and subjects immediately obey and respect her. Heles trains her champions to fight beautifully and with intense emotion, all to maintain the perfect aesthetic of her universe.

‘Pokémon Journeys’ (2019–2022)

Iris is back in this series as the Unova region’s Champion, having previously been a Gym Leader. She both guides and challenges Ash Ketchum, showcasing her skill with Dragon-type Pokémon. Her journey from a carefree girl to a confident champion is meant to inspire new trainers, and she demonstrates that truly connecting with Pokémon is essential for becoming a top battler.

‘Ah! My Goddess’ (2005–2006)

Urd is Belldandy’s older sister and a goddess connected to the past and strong emotions. She often gets involved in the lives of others, encouraging them to grow emotionally. With her skill in potions and magic, she’s a powerful problem-solver who handles supernatural issues with style. Urd emphasizes that love isn’t just a feeling—it requires effort and self-assurance, a lesson she imparts to her sisters and the main character.

‘Pokémon Sword and Shield’ (2020)

As a huge Pokémon fan, I’ve always been fascinated by Nessa! She’s the Gym Leader of Hulbury and absolutely crushes it with Water-type Pokémon. What’s really cool is that she’s also a model – she somehow manages to balance both a demanding career and being a tough Gym Leader. When you battle her, she doesn’t hold back at all – it’s a really strategic and flowing battle. I admire how she excels at two completely different, challenging jobs. She definitely earns your respect!

Let us know in the comments which of these amazing anime teachers you’d most like to have as a mentor.

Read More

2025-12-12 10:20