This archive report was first published on 3 November 2019.
Actress Lupita Nyong'o has spoken candidly about her painful struggle with self-acceptance, a journey that has been documented in her children's book, Sulwe. In a heart-wrenching interview with Oprah, Nyong'o broke down as she recounted the days she prayed to God to change her skin color.
According to Nyong'o, she grew up in an environment where light skin was considered more attractive, and she often felt self-conscious about her dark skin. She recalled watching TV and seeing only pale-skinned actresses and actors, which further reinforced her negative self-image.
'I put on the TV and only saw pale skin. I got teased and taunted about my night-shaded skin. And my one prayer to God, the miracle worker, was that I would wake up lighter-skinned,' Nyong'o tearfully revealed.
Nyong'o's new book, Sulwe, addresses issues like racism, colourism, and teaches younger generations to love the skin they are in. The book was launched on October 1, 2019, and is a testament to Nyong'o's journey towards self-acceptance.
