The moment I landed abroad, it was like I’d entered a strange contest I didn’t sign up for. Everyone had opinions about my complexion. A coworker once joked, “You must be solar-powered with skin that dark!” Another person told me I was “exotically African,” which felt like a backhanded compliment wrapped in awkwardness. The white men would see me and call me “African King”. It made me super conscious of my skin and I’d never liked being the center of attention. It was as if I was darker than I thought when I arrived.  The final straw was at a house party, someone casually suggested, “Have you ever thought about lightening up a bit? It might help you fit in more.” Instead of walking out like a boss, I started Googling how to lighten dark skin fast.

Did you proceed with bleaching? 

Yes, I did but I aimed not to get too fair. I just wanted to lighten my skin up a little bit. So I checked for some whitening products but It didn't go well at all. My body reacted so bad to it. The real kicker was at a family zoom call when my aunt gasped at the sight of me. She couldn't hide her bewilderment. I remember her saying I look like a burnt pancake And my mom has no chill about it at all. You’re bleaching? Eh, so now you want to be Rihanna? You better stop before you look like Michael Jackson!”

So happened next?

I mean I just went with the plan nevertheless. I am now some shades lighter than my former dark tone, and to be honest, I'm good with it. I am now able to blend in well and I don't regret it.