In a world obsessed with unrealistic beauty standards, it’s refreshing to witness someone like Nyakim Gatwech, a model who has proudly embraced her unique and stunning dark skin. Despite facing discrimination, she has become an icon for self-acceptance and empowerment.
Nyakim’s journey began in refugee camps in Ethiopia and Kenya before she arrived in the United States at the age of 14. She had high hopes for a brighter future, but the reality was far from what she had expected. Nyakim spent countless hours crying over the hurtful comments and judgments about her deeply pigmented skin.
Being bullied for her appearance took its toll on Nyakim’s self-esteem. She was told hurtful things like “You don’t take showers. That’s why your skin is dirt.” Or even worse, “Smile so we can see you, Nyakim. We can’t see you.” These experiences left her feeling isolated and invisible.
At one point, Nyakim even considered bleaching her skin. The pressure to conform to society’s narrow standards of beauty became overwhelming. But luckily, she had a sister who stood up against this harmful practice. She refused to let Nyakim bleach her skin and encouraged her to embrace her natural beauty.
Now recognized as the “Queen of the Dark,” Nyakim has made it her mission to inspire others to love themselves just as they are. She has faced discrimination from designers, makeup artists, and even fellow models, but has not let that dampen her spirit. With over 962,000 loyal followers on Instagram, Nyakim’s confidence and admiration for her deep chocolatey skin continues to grow.
“My chocolate is elegant. So is what I represent… A nation of warriors,” Nyakim proudly declares. Her fans cannot get enough of her. They praise her strikingly beautiful skin tone as a reminder of God’s magnificence and admire her for her unwavering self-love.
Nyakim recently shared a story about an encounter with an Uber driver who asked if she would consider bleaching her skin. His reasoning was that her life would be easier and she would have more opportunities if she were lighter. Nyakim’s response was nothing short of amazing. She stated, “Even if being lighter would make my life easier, I’d rather take the hard road.” She embraces her unique beauty and refuses to conform to society’s standards.
When asked what advice she would give to young black girls facing similar obstacles, Nyakim reminds them that they are beautiful, unique, and loved just the way they are. She encourages them to embrace their darkness and see it as a blessing.
Nyakim Gatwech’s story is an inspiration to all. It reminds us that true beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. We should celebrate our individuality and reject societal pressures to conform. Let us join together in honoring Nyakim’s journey and embrace our own beauty, just as she has done.
