Nyakim Gatwech, born in 1993, is an Ethiopian-born American model of South Sudanese descent. At 31 years old, she has transformed her once-criticized skin tone into a symbol of beauty and strength. Nyakim, often referred to as the “Queen of the Dark,” has no publicly known partner or children and has amassed an estimated net worth of $500,000 through her modeling career and social media influence.
Humble Beginnings
Nyakim’s journey began in a refugee camp in Ethiopia, where she was born amid the chaos of the Sudanese civil war. Her mother, seeking a safer life for her children, moved them to a refugee camp in Kenya before finally settling in Buffalo, New York, when Nyakim was a teenager. This transition was marked by cultural shock and a painful introduction to racism and colorism, concepts unfamiliar to her in Africa.
Struggles in School
In the United States, Nyakim faced severe bullying because of her dark skin. Even within her own community, she was often isolated. This exclusion was exacerbated by incidents like a classmate mocking her visibility in the dark, a painful reminder of the prejudice she faced daily. Despite these challenges, Nyakim found solace in education and the support of her mother and sister.
Rising Above Prejudice
Nyakim’s early experiences with bullying and exclusion did not deter her. Instead, they fueled her determination to redefine beauty standards. She worked multiple jobs, including as a daycare teacher and at Panera Bread, to fund her education and passion for modeling. With the support of friends, she began producing her photoshoots, which gradually gained attention on social media.
“Queen of the Dark”
The turning point in Nyakim’s career came when she embraced the nickname “Queen of the Dark,” a title given to her by fans on social media. This acceptance marked her transition from a figure of pity to a symbol of empowerment. Nyakim’s bold response to an Uber driver’s insensitive question about bleaching her skin—“Why on Earth would I ever bleach this beautiful melanin God blessed me with?”—went viral, solidifying her status as an advocate for skin positivity.
Overcoming Stereotypes
Despite her success, Nyakim continues to face obstacles, including persistent colorism and stereotypes in the fashion industry. She has been subject to derogatory comments, such as being labeled a “freak of nature” by Dr. Jeffrey Lieberman, which sparked widespread backlash and led to his suspension. However, Nyakim uses these experiences to highlight and challenge deep-rooted prejudices.
Inspiring Change
Today, Nyakim Gatwech is not just a model but a symbol of resilience and hope. With 973,000 Instagram followers, she uses her platform to promote self-love and challenge societal standards of beauty. Her posts, often highlighting her journey and the beauty of dark skin, resonate with many who struggle with self-acceptance due to societal pressures.
Future Aspirations
Nyakim’s story is far from over. She continues to inspire others, particularly those facing similar struggles with identity and self-worth. Her journey highlights the importance of embracing one’s unique attributes and standing against prejudice. As she moves forward, Nyakim aims to use her influence to create a more inclusive and accepting society, both within and beyond the fashion industry.
Conclusion
Nyakim Gatwech’s rise from a refugee camp to becoming an international icon underscores the power of resilience and self-acceptance. Her story is a testament to the strength found in embracing one’s identity and challenging societal norms. As Nyakim continues to break barriers, she inspires others to find beauty and strength within themselves, regardless of societal standards. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that true beauty lies in the courage to be oneself.