Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o has shared a deeply personal reflection about her childhood struggles with self-image, revealing how colorism shaped her early years and inspired her mission to promote self-love among children.
Posting an old childhood photo, the Kenyan star admitted that although she now sees a “cute” little girl, she did not feel that way growing up.
She recalled receiving early messages that lighter skin was preferred and being teased for her dark complexion — experiences that left her wishing she could change her skin.
Nyong’o said her confidence might have faded completely were it not for the unwavering support of her family.
She credited her mother for consistently affirming her beauty and worth during a time when she struggled to accept herself.
The turning point, she explained, came when she began seeing dark-skinned women represented in media and entertainment.
Figures such as Alek Wek, Whoopi Goldberg, Oprah Winfrey, Akosua Busia, and Cicely Tyson reshaped her understanding of beauty and reinforced the message her mother had long shared — that dark skin carries dignity, value, and power.
Inspired by this transformation, Nyong’o wrote the children’s book Sulwe, a story designed to guide young readers toward self-love and acceptance.
She explained that “Sulwe,” meaning “star” in Luo, symbolizes the light within every child.
Marking Black History Month, the actress celebrated Black beauty and acknowledged the women who helped illuminate her path.
She encouraged children and adults alike to embrace their uniqueness and recognize beauty in themselves and others, even when society suggests otherwise.
Her message has resonated widely, reinforcing conversations around colorism, representation, and the importance of positive identity formation.