Meghan Markle Made a Surprise Gala Appearance in Her Stunning Red Gown.
October 21, 2024Governor Fubara has approved a new minimum wage of N85,000.00 for workers in Rivers State
October 21, 2024There is an immense pressure Growing up in the public eye. While the challenges of adolescence are difficult enough, experiencing them under constant scrutiny can amplify those struggles. At times, I believe this exposure has helped me develop a thicker skin, and I don’t regret my upbringing. I feel incredibly fortunate to have a platform that allows me to make a difference.
However, this journey hasn’t been without its difficulties. I chose to be open about my experiences with mental health, and because of this, I have connected with countless individuals who face their own battles. Mental health has become a cause close to my heart, and I strive to use my voice to diminish the stigma surrounding it and to encourage everyone to celebrate their.
Assumption for women often creates pressure to conform to specific ideals of beauty and behavior. Social media, in particular, has distorted our perception of what it means to be “perfect,” leading many to seek validation on these platforms. Ironically, while we might turn to social media for comfort, it can often leave us feeling more isolated.
For anyone grappling with mental health challenges or facing tough times, I want to emphasize that you are not alone. I am a strong advocate for therapy, which has been instrumental in helping me understand my feelings and overcome various obstacles. Initially, I found it difficult to admit I was struggling with depression and anxiety, especially as a public figure. The pressure to appear perfect weighed heavily on me. However, once I decided to seek help and share my feelings, I experienced immense relief. Acknowledging my humanity—recognizing that no one is perfect—has proven to be beneficial not only for me but also for those who look up to me.
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with some of the world’s best makeup artists. I’ve always been fascinated by makeup as an art form, exploring how it can transform a character. Two years ago, I launched a beauty brand aimed at changing the narrative around beauty. I felt this was a conversation that was long overdue in the industry.
In the past, I believed that wearing makeup was essential to feeling beautiful, but my perspective has shifted. I now see makeup as an accessory, something to enjoy rather than a necessity. This philosophy is at the core of Rare Beauty—our brand encourages everyone to wear as much or as little makeup as they desire, creating a safe space where individuals feel comfortable expressing themselves.
Society often imposes standards that dictate how we should look, leading many to use makeup to mask perceived flaws. At Rare Beauty, we encourage both women and men to challenge these beauty norms and celebrate their uniqueness.
Since launching Rare Beauty, my team and I have been dedicated to fostering a community focused on self-acceptance and mental health. During the pandemic, we initiated intimate Zoom calls known as “Rare Chats” and highlighted community members on social media, encouraging people to embrace their individual beauty. Our foundation offers 48 shades of foundation and concealer to cater to all skin tones, promoting inclusivity.
Having a purpose behind Rare Beauty has always been crucial to me, and I knew mental health would be central to our message. With the Rare Impact Fund, we aim to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, combat the epidemic of chronic loneliness, and provide access to necessary resources and services for mental well-being. We launched the fund on my 28th birthday in July, setting a goal of raising $100 million over the next decade to support mental health services in underserved communities.
We are committed to partnering with others and our community to raise these funds. One percent of Rare Beauty’s annual sales will directly support the Rare Impact Fund. Additionally, we established the Rare Impact Mental Health Council, comprising expert advisors from leading universities, organizations, and companies, to ensure we maximize our impact.
I want everyone to discover the power in their uniqueness. It’s essential to embrace what makes us rare, stop comparing ourselves to others, and cultivate self-love—especially in times like these.