Be Inspired

An ode to black female beauty

‘Black Rose’ is an anthem for intersectional feminism from grime artist Ghetts, and ruminates on the rapper’s hopes and fears of raising his daughter in a society that regularly neglects women of colour. Paired with black and white imagery from London director Netti Hurley, the video is a hard-hitting exploration of black womanhood and representation, opening with the rapper’s young daughter asking, “Daddy, how come there’s no dolls that look like me in the shop?” Ghetts’ lyrics weave social commentary and personal experience, focussing on colourism and hyper-sexualisation of black women in the media, and delivers a moving message of black and female empowerment.

‘Inspired by the work of famous black female artists such as Carrie Mae Weems, Lorna Simpson and the poetry of Maya Angelou, this film is an ode to black female beauty in every sense,’ says Hurley.

We inherit their eyes, their smile, their cheek bones and knowledge. We even mimic their gestures and laughs. Moms are extremely influential in our lives. I am fortunate to have my amazing mother who I have learned so much from- whether it’s a life lesson or love lesson, my mother have been an amazing example and supporter in my life. We might not share the same genes but we are basically the same person. She has offered a bevy of sound beauty advice and life advice. I might have never started using sunscreen as soon as I did if it wasn’t for her. I got my looks from my mama!

On Valentine’s Day, I had the pleasure of asking her some fun beauty questions. Oh yeah, I got these questions and idea from Pucker and Pout. Enjoy!!

What was the first beauty tip you received from your mom?

Mom: I really don’t remember.

Me: My mother told me to always wear sunscreen, she always made me as a child wear sunscreen. She also told me not to ever smoke a cigarette.

What product have you used since you were a young woman that you swear by?

Mom: It has to be Vaseline. It is a good moisturizer.

Me: I have been wearing Nars foundation since 8th grade and even though I wear Fenty Beauty now, Nars is still and forever my go-to makeup brand.

As you matured, how did you beauty regimen change? Products?

Mom: As far as a makeup routine, nothing has changed for me. I never have and still to this day don’t wear foundation. I only wear a little blush, lipstick and sometimes eyeshadow. I now try different skincare and beauty products because my daughter either get them for free or buy them for me. I just don’t like too much stuff on my face, I keep everything simple which works for me.

Me: I moisturized gently and daily. When I do wear makeup, I make sure before going to bed to take off my makeup and wash face. Products only change in a form that they are more expensive and now I use items that are for my skin type. I am more aware.

What is something you wish you started doing years ago and/or what do you regret doing?

Mom: Drinking more water, I am training myself to drink more water every day. I regret smoking, it is a bad habbit I picked up when I was in college.

Me: I regret sleeping in my makeup whenever I felt lazy and wished I started eating healthier and sticking with it sooner. So yeah, I wish I was more discipline and had more self-control.

What makes you feel most beautiful?

Mom: I feel most beautiful when I am happy!

Me: When my skin is clear and glowing!