Actress Beverly Naya has opened up about the inspiration behind her documentary on colorism, revealing that she wanted to challenge the beauty standards that continue to push many Nigerian women toward skin bleaching.
Speaking in an interview, the actress claimed that “77% of Nigerian women bleach their skin,” describing it as a reflection of a long-standing belief that lighter skin is more desirable.
According to her, “There’s this hierarchy of beauty according to complexion, where it’s like the lighter you are, the better. Culturally, you know, in society, it’s there.”
Naya said she saw colorism as another form of bullying, noting that many people casually used derogatory terms for dark-skinned individuals without realizing the behavior had a name.
She explained, “People knew that you could literally look at a dark-skinned person, and you would say, ‘Oh, Blackie,’ and it was derogatory, it was offensive, but there was nothing to define what that act was. But then it was colorism, and they didn’t know what it was.”
The actress said her documentary aimed to educate Nigerians about colorism, expose the dangers of skin bleaching, and encourage people to embrace their natural complexion.
“The whole idea was just to inspire people to love the complexion that they’re in and appreciate themselves for who they are,” she said.
Naya also recalled that the documentary was released on Netflix just weeks after the d+ath of George Floyd, a timing she believes amplified its global reach.
“Naturally, it blew up. So many people watched it, and the impact was insane,” she said, adding that she was deeply moved by the response.
Reflecting on its success, the actress said the overwhelming reception inspired her to continue the movement, saying she remains committed to promoting self-love and challenging colorism.
