(Actress Beverly Naya. Photo Credit: Nigeria 234)
Actress Beverly Naya has shared the idea behind her colorism documentary, stating that she wanted to question the beauty standards that still encourage skin bleaching among many Nigerian women.
The actress stated in an interview that “77% of Nigerian women blüach their skin,” citing a long-standing perception that lighter skin is more attractive.
“There is a hierarchy of beauty based on complexion, where it’s like the lighter you are, the better,” she said. You know, it exists in society and culture.
Naya explained that she viewed colorism as another form of b¥llying, pointing out that many people casually used derogatory terms for dark-skinned individuals without realising that such behaviour actually had a name.
She recalled that people would openly refer to a dark-skinned person as “Blackie” in a way that was clearly derogatory and offensive, yet there was no term to define the act until the concept of colorism came along, one many were still unfamiliar with.
She said her documentary was aimed at educating Nigerians about colorism, exposing the d@ngers of skin bl£aching, and encouraging people to embrace their natural complexion, noting that the whole idea behind it was to inspire people to love their skin tone and appreciate themselves for who they are.
Naya also recalled that the documentary premiered on Netflix just weeks after the d£ath of George Floyd, a timing she believes helped amplify its global reach, noting that it went on to attract massive viewership and had an overwhelming impact.
She said she was deeply moved by the response, adding that the reception has continued to inspire her to keep pushing the movement and remain committed to promoting self-love while challenging colorism.
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