World Mental Health Day

I've been vocal about my facial disfigurement for a while now and how I've come to embrace and take pride in who I am. However, what I've rarely spoken about is the emotional turmoil I experience behind closed doors when the world isn't watching. It's a part of my journey that I've kept hidden, but it's a part that needs to be highlighted.

Why? Because it's essential that we all share our innermost feelings and struggles with the world.

Over the years, I've learned that bottling up my emotions only leads to unintended outbursts of frustration, often directed at those who don't deserve it. It's a hard lesson I've had to come to terms with.

It was only about six months ago that I mustered the courage to open up about my condition, and it all began with a single TikTok video that unexpectedly went viral. Through this unexpected turn of events, I've managed to touch the hearts of over 20 million people worldwide. All because I started talking, sharing, and accepting.

For anyone who's suffering in silence, my advice is simple: open up. Speak your truth to the universe, because when you do, the universe responds in ways you could never have imagined.

Through my journey of self-discovery and acceptance, I've grown stronger. I've also begun collaborating with organisations like Billion Strong and Face Equality International, aiming to amplify the impact of our collective voices. Because together, we are stronger.

In embracing my personal story, I've come to realise that by sharing my vulnerabilities and triumphs, I not only heal myself but also inspire and empower others to do the same. Mental health is something we all go through, and when we talk openly, we help build understanding and compassion, making our society more caring and inclusive.