Lights, camera, beauty! It is no coincidence that of the ESSENCE‘s March/April edition features eight (8) women who are redefining what it means to be black and beautiful in today’s world, during Women’s History Month.
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ESSENCE wrote:
These are the Faces of Black Beauty!
It’s not enough that we know who they are. We must celebrate them and show the world that representation matters. These ladies, from CEOs to beauty influencers, are paving a path for us to follow in their footsteps.
The article features African beauties Achieng Agutu and Chizi Duru, with Aaliyah Jay, Jessica Cruel, Karen Young, Keewana Grant, Maya Allen, and Tahira White who discuss what beauty means to them, their expression of beauty, the beauty advice they would give their younger selves and when they feel most beautiful.
These women are noted for revolutionizing the beauty industry, from social media to the boardroom.
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What makes me feel most beautiful and confident is when I have discipline and intention
— Aaliyah Jay on what makes her feel most beautiful
Achieng Agutu had this to say about the beauty advice she would give her younger self
Stop worrying about what other people will think!
Chizi Duru will tell her to
look beyond physical attributes to define beauty. I’ve learned that your inner being is what shines and makes you truly beautiful.
Jessica Cruel feels most beautiful when “working out—no makeup, sweaty, hair messed up. I’ve learned that strength is the thing I value most.”
Beauty is an expression of self, and your whole self deserves to shine—no judgment
— Karen Young on what beauty means to her
For Keewana Grant, she defines true beauty as
What makes me feel beautiful is giving to others and expecting nothing in return.
For Maya Allen,
True beauty defies classification. It rises above arbitrary standards, so embrace every curve. Your body is a unique masterpiece.
Tahira White feels beautiful when she is “well-rested, impeccably dressed and mentally prepared for the next challenge.”
True beauty defies classification. It rises above arbitrary standards, so embrace every curve. Your body is a unique masterpiece.
— beauty expert and editor Allen
Click here for the full article
CREDITS
Muses: @chiziduru , @noordinarynoire , @karen_ouithepeople , @jcruel , @tahirajalees , @aaliyahjay ,
@mayaalenaa , & @keewanagrant
Photographer: @courtsyy
Hair: @rachelpolycarpe
Makeup: @zoey.badasss
Location: @cometny
Production: @themorrisongroup