Congratulations Lupita Nyong’o on your oscar win!
“No matter where you’re from, your dreams are valid.” – Lupita Nyong’o

I hope young dark skinned girls who feel insecure about their dark skin can find some inspiration in Lupita and change the negative views they have of themselves. It’s true that women who look like her are not always portrayed in the media mainly because they are not deemed as being beautiful. She has proven quite the contrary. Not only is she beautiful – she is refreshing, smart, and classy.  It is my job as a mother to set good examples for my daughter, help shape a healthy self-image and be a role model for her to the best of my ability. I also understand the media influences our children’s image of self to a degree. I am so grateful that there are young ladies like Lupita Nyong’o, Alek Wek, Janelle Monae who seem to be comfortable in their skin. I certainly don’t mind my teenage daughter looking up to them.