role model

This term carries a strong positive connotation, implying a standard of excellence or moral integrity that others strive to achieve. It is frequently used in educational, professional, and parenting contexts to describe the influence of a mentor or a public figure on a developing individual.

While similar to a mentor, a role model does not necessarily have a direct, personal relationship with the person emulating them. One can have a role model who is a historical figure or a distant celebrity, whereas mentoring requires active, two-way guidance.