Women all over the world are being judged by how they look. It is very uncommon, but so refreshing to see women who break the mould and defy stereotypes with their looks. A woman whose beauty is unconventional and refuses to fit in with society’s definition of beauty is happy with her life and succeeds in what she does. We look at four women who choose to be beautifully different:
Lira
The songstress is not only known for her soulful music, but her natural hair has been a talking point for a long time. Lira began rocking short natural hair before it was trendy. We therefore applaud her for blazing the trail for us and reminding us that we are beautiful even with our kinks.
Lebo Mashile
From the beginning of her career, this talented poet, presenter and actress was being criticized for her weight; but did she change it? No, because she decided that she was beautiful as she was and she refused to be measured by international standards of beauty. She is still a plus size and beautiful, and still refuses to have her beauty defined for her.
Lupita Nyong’o
This talented actress, who originates from Kenya, braved her way to the Hollywood life that has previously rejected black Americans based on their skin color. She is excellent at what she does and bold about who she is so much that she gives white Americans no choice but to accept her as she is – black, beautiful and talented.
Thandiswa Mazwai
Remember how King Tha was rocking dreads and African-inspired cornrows when that look was considered backwards and rural? This woman not only revolutionized the music industry with her unique brand of music; she was also one of the trailblazers with regards to how women see and define beauty. We recognize her for showing us that our natural hairstyles, fashion and tribal jewellery are even better than anything else.