The difficulties of being a model.
Being a model was my dream since I was a kid. I remember seeing Naomi Campbell ,Tyra Banks and saying one day I want to be like them. But because of my religion and culture I grew up in, I wouldn’t dare say it out loud.
Being a muslim African girl takes guts to live the way you want. The society expects you to get married by 18, have children and drown in household chores. You wouldn’t even dare to think about getting a college degree and pursue your career. Dreams? Pshh…
I started thinking about the above after my family kick me out… Yes, but that’s the story for another post. Few years later I’ve started feeling happy! I’m doing something that I wanted to do since years. Even though it turned out to be a hard work sometimes. Not to mention all the daily rituals – gym for staying in shape, taking care of your skin, or just getting a good night sleep. But I love it and wouldn’t want to change it.
Since I started modeling I’ve met so many talented and creative individuals. Many of whom had influenced me and made me a better person.
It’s hard being of my background and not to fear posting random pictures on social media, because of my family members and friends who always have a lot to say. I remember few years ago I’ve posted a photo where I wore a one piece swimwear. Lord I got a lot of hate comments and messages in my inbox all day long. One of them said ”you are not a good muslim, you should cover yourself”. I was furious and all wanted to do is scream… How dare they say that to me! If I was man they wouldn’t say anything at all because men can do nothing wrong.
Being an african muslim girl and a model is hard because of many reason but the fact your family won’t have your back and they will always try to put you down and make you feel like you are the worst person on this planet is the most frustrating. Family friends will try to keep their kids away from you, because they believe you are setting a bad example. You have to be strong and tell yourself – ”I can do this, I’m strong enough to do this and I’m doing it for myself”.
Be yourself, stand up for what you want to do and do it. Because you can be anyone you want to be.