In today's world, where digital filters and editing tools are ubiquitous, it's easy to forget the impact they can have on young minds. This is a story about a young woman, Kaziah Liz Mejo, who navigated the complexities of growing up in a digital age, where the pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards is ever-present.
Kaziah's journey began in Abu Dhabi, a place she calls home despite her frequent school switches. It was here that she first encountered the stage, participating in local 'baby shows' and embracing her natural wit and confidence. However, as she transitioned into her teenage years, a different reality emerged.
The Filter Trap
The innocence of childhood gave way to the insecurities of adolescence. Kaziah, with her dusky complexion, found herself caught in the web of digital filters and the toxic beauty standards they perpetuate. She admits to using filters for three years, a practice that narrowed her face, enlarged her eyes, and artificially lightened her skin tone. This experience, coupled with the influence of fairness creams and social media influencers, led to a deep-seated insecurity about her appearance.
Finding Confidence in Unconventional Dreams
What's fascinating about Kaziah's story is her ability to break free from these constraints. She credits her mother's encouragement to dream big, to write down her ambitions, no matter how wild they seemed. This 'unrealistic' approach, as she puts it, led her to enter international teen pageants and ultimately win the title of Miss Universe Kerala. It's a testament to the power of embracing one's true self and taking risks, even when the odds seem stacked against you.
A Rebel with a Cause
Now, as a titleholder, Kaziah is acutely aware of the responsibility she carries. She understands the paradox of operating in an industry often criticized for promoting rigid beauty standards. Her rebellion against this perfectionism is refreshing. She refuses to conform to the typical pageant lifestyle, advocating instead for an intuitive understanding of one's body and genetics. She questions the curated 'What I Eat in a Day' videos, preferring a McDonald's treat after a shoot.
Home and Identity
Kaziah's identity is a fascinating blend of her diaspora experience and her Indian roots. Moving back to India at 17 was a conscious decision to ground herself in the realities of her homeland. She speaks of the challenges of being caught between cultures, of not feeling 'Indian enough' abroad and vice versa. Yet, for her, being Indian is about more than geography; it's about the morals and values one carries.
A Thoughtful Conclusion
Kaziah's story is a powerful reminder of the impact social media and digital filters can have on self-perception, especially during vulnerable teenage years. It's a call to embrace one's true self, to dream big, and to find confidence in one's unique identity. As she puts it, 'Social media is so fake. If we promote that fake idea, what kind of example are we setting?' A thought-provoking question indeed.
