Thisharaka
Nyakim Gatwech, a South Sudanese-American model, has become a symbol of self-love and resilience, challenging conventional beauty standards with her radiant dark skin and empowering message.
Born in Ethiopia to South Sudanese parents, Nyakim immigrated to the United States at the age of 14. Her early years in America were marked by bullying and discrimination due to her deep skin tone. Classmates would make hurtful remarks, leading her to question her self-worth. At one point, she even considered skin bleaching to fit in. However, with support from her family, especially her sister, she began to embrace her unique beauty.
A pivotal moment in Nyakim’s journey occurred during an Uber ride when the driver asked if she would bleach her skin for $10,000. She responded with laughter, stating, “Why on earth would I ever bleach this beautiful melanin God [blessed] me with?” This incident, which she shared on Instagram, resonated with many and highlighted the pervasive issue of colorism.
Meet the “Queen of The Dark” who was told to bleach her incredibly dark skin by Uber driver
24-year-old Nyakim Gatwech is making waves in the fashion industry with her sumptuously dark skin
Before the South Sudanese model found success, though, her unique beauty wasn’t celebrated by all
In 2016, an Uber driver suggested she bleach her skin, implying that her deep complexion was nothing to love
She simply responded with laughter, and has fully embraced her striking appearance ever since
“My chocolate is elegant. So is what I represent… A nation of warriors,” she captioned an Instagram photo
Now living in Minneapolis, Nyakim is a voice of encouragement for the Black community
“You are beyond beautiful and the love I have for you is unconditional because you are me,” she wrote
“Let’s show the world how beautiful and intelligent we are apart from just being dark skinned”
The burgeoning fashion icon has now gone viral, with over 100 thousand followers on Instagram
Though she still receives discouraging messages now and then, she refuses to give up her radiant self-love
She has even been dubbed the “Queen of the Dark,” a title she happily accepts
“My skin absorbs the suns rays and my hair defies gravity. Now you can’t tell me I’m not magical!”
Embracing the nickname “Queen of the Dark,” Nyakim uses her platform to promote self-acceptance and challenge societal beauty norms. With over 985,000 followers on Instagram, she shares stunning photos accompanied by messages that celebrate diversity and encourage others to love themselves as they are. In one post, she wrote, “My chocolate is elegant. So is what I represent… A nation of warriors.”
Nyakim’s influence extends beyond social media. She has appeared in promotional materials for the 2017 film “Jigsaw” and continues to be a vocal advocate for diversity in the fashion industry. Her story serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating the power of embracing one’s identity and challenging societal expectations.
Nyakim Gatwech’s journey from self-doubt to self-love underscores the importance of representation and the celebration of all skin tones in the media and fashion industries.
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