How Women Can Feel Beautiful in their Skin (feat. Amira Adawe)
Our physical appearance has become increasingly central to our identity. In some ethnic communities, skin color plays a major role in determining a woman’s sense of worthiness.
The trauma caused by colorism—a prejudice that favors people with lighter skin over those with darker skin within a racial group—results in serious mental and emotional effects on members affected by it.
My guest today, Amira Adawe, has been on a crusade to remove these biases and boost the self-esteem of those who have internalized the discrimination. Amira, a public health researcher and educator founded The Beautywell Project, a non-profit organization that aims to end skin-lightening practices and encourage women to embrace their ethnic identity.
Amira talks about various facets of colorism including the psychological impact, and her advocacy to change the narrative of beauty to make it more inclusive. She also offers advice on how girls and women can accept this natural beauty and love the skin color they have.
Interview time stamps:
02:29 ︳What inspired Amira to start the Beautywell movement and raise awareness about colorism and skin lightening products.
06:50 ︳The common psychological issues that drive colorism-based biases
10:34 ︳Historical origins of colorism
13:28 ︳The impact promoting skin-lightening products and practices has on identity and self-worth
19:08 ︳How educators, parents and institutions can help change the narrative of beauty and make it more inclusive
29:40 ︳Amira’s tips for girls and women trying embrace their natural beauty and skin color
Learn more about Amira Adawe at her website.