Zintle Kwaaiman: Former Miss SA speaks out against racism in the beauty industry

Not a beauty ideal

Former Miss South Africa Zintle Kwaaiman has spoken out against racism in the beauty industry, which has a long history of perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards that favour white women. Kwaaiman, who was crowned Miss South Africa in 2019, said she was often told that she was "not beautiful enough" because she did not fit the traditional beauty standards of the industry.

Unrealistic beauty standards

Kwaaiman said that the beauty industry has a responsibility to promote diversity and inclusion, and to challenge the unrealistic beauty standards that it has created. She said that she hopes that her voice will help to create a more inclusive and representative beauty industry.

Own your beauty

Kwaaiman's comments come in the wake of a growing movement to challenge racism in the beauty industry. In recent years, there have been a number of high-profile cases of racism in the industry, including the firing of a black model from a fashion campaign because she was "too dark."

Kwaaimans's message is clear. Do not submit to the narrow and biased ideals of the beauty industry. Embrace what you have within and be confident in what you see in the mirror.

If you or someone you know is struggling with the pressures of the beauty industry, remember that you are not alone. There are resources available to help you. You can contact the National Eating Disorders Association at 1-800-931-2237 or visit their website.