Mariska Hargitay’s career is a masterclass in how success can be intertwined with meaningful contributions to society. Best known for her role as Olivia Benson on *Law & Order: Special Victims Unit*, Hargitay has used her success as a platform to support and uplift her community in profound ways. But what are the secrets behind her success, and how has she managed to turn her achievements into opportunities to help others?

Hargitay’s first secret is her ability to connect deeply with the roles she plays. Her portrayal of Olivia Benson was not just an acting job—it became a personal mission. The harrowing stories of survivors she encountered on the show fueled her passion to make a real difference. This led to the creation of the Joyful Heart Foundation in 2004, which has since provided support to thousands of survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse. Her empathy, coupled with her drive to take tangible action, has been key to her success both on-screen and off.

Another of Hargitay’s success secrets is her dedication to advocacy. She didn’t just stop at founding a charity; she became an