The Topic Of Skin Bleaching Leads This Sudanese Girl To Have A Life-Changing Intervention

Color Blind

Nyakim was not aware of discrimination, up until she moved to the United States of America. Since she had never been pointed out about her unique looks, she always thought of herself to be just another regular girl. She was always aware that she was a lot darker than most people in her life, but she had never received criticism or nasty comments in relation to her dark skin in Sudan, Ethiopia, or Kenya.

Black Americans

Since moving to America, she was the center of attention for people of all ethnicities and color, who would often stare at her. However, Nyakim revealed that the most hurtful and abusive people she had to deal with were black Americans. “I didn’t even think colorism had a word or existed until recently. I didn’t feel it back home, but I really feel it here,” she admitted in an interview she gave.

The Harassment

When Nyakim Gatwech finally joined the middle school in Buffalo, she had to learn English properly. Since she had the issue of a language barrier, it was difficult, however, she could tell the comments and abuse they threw at her. “You’re black as hell. Take a shower,” teased the kids. If teachers asked the students, they would answer, “We can’t see her. She’s not here. Smile so we can see you, Nyakim.”

More Insecurities

Then the teacher would scold these bullies, even sending them to the principal’s office. However, it did not hurt any less for poor Nyakim as she knew all the other kids were thinking the same things that those bullies blurted out. There were countless nights she had to sleep, crying and crying. Nyakim became extremely insecure about her dark skin and her self-esteem dropped immensely…

The “Other”

Nyakim was deeply hurt knowing that the classmates and the people she lived with did not accept her as she was. It was a terrible feeling for the young girl who just wanted a chance in life. Even though she was made fun of, there were other who often told her that she should go for modeling. Even though she had always been interested, Nyakim was too insecure to start by herself…

Her True Destiny

“These people don’t accept me,” she confessed. “These kids think I’m ugly. I don’t see myself on social media, or TV, or in the magazines. I don’t think I’m meant to be a model,” Nyakim would often exclaim. She did not feel confident about it so she kept the possibilities of modeling on the side. However, when she least expected it, her destiny was about to come for her sooner than she expected…