Nyakim Gatwech is a South Sudanese model who is known as the ‘Queen of The Dark’ because of her very dark skin, a result of high levels of melanin
In the fiercely competitive world of modeling, Nyakim Gatwech has emerged not just as a face in a glossy magazine, but as a beacon of self-acceptance and empowerment.
From the depths of self-doubt in her middle school years, Nyakim, now 24, has risen as an icon of beauty and a champion for diversity, challenging conventional beauty standards and inspiring young women worldwide to embrace their unique beauty.
Born in South Sudan and having spent her early years among the lighter-skinned populations of Ethiopia and Kenya, Nyakim’s encounter with colorism began upon her arrival in the United States.
The transition was marked by a painful realization as she faced stares and ridicule in her middle school due to her dark skin.
However, it was this very challenge that fueled her journey towards self-love and acceptance. “When I put a picture up I’m telling people that no matter what you say, I love who I am. I love my skin tone,” Nyakim asserts with confidence.
Nyakim’s defiance against societal norms and her celebration of her dark skin have earned her the affectionate title “Queen of the Dark” from her fans.
Her Instagram, a canvas with over 960K followers, is not just a gallery of striking photos but a platform for advocacy, challenging American beauty standards and advocating for diversity in the modeling industry.
Her message is clear and powerful: beauty is diverse and should not be confined to a narrow spectrum.
