I am called Enang Karen, I was a victim of body shaming, which led to lack of confidence and depression. Growing up I had the perfect size, until I turned 13 and I started seeing changes in my size. It was very hard to accept it.
The things I find comfort doing I could not do it anymore. I loved sports and I loved dancing but it wasn't the case anymore.
My friends, family started complaining that I was fat for my age. When it was time for sports in school I would always hide because I was not comfortable in my sport attire.
Time went on and I kept on increasing in size. I would always wear dresses that would cover up my body. I never liked being amongst people because they would always want to remind me about what I am trying to forget.
I got to the university and my friends started calling me by all sort of nicknames. Whenever they saw me they will always remind me of the fact that I was fat. I would cry in hiding and see myself not worthy of going out to have fun.
I was always indoors - the antisocial kind of person and being an introvert I was left to my thoughts constantly reminding me of what people were saying about my size.
I tried many things that would even make me lose weight, I did sports and I starved myself; which made me feel dizzy all the time , I drank lemonated water and guava leaves, but to no avail I decided to stop and accept the fact that I am fat.
I was affected psychologically in that I was not able to interact freely and go out with friends because I will always struggle with what to wear that will cover up my body. I built a wall of isolation between me and the world, I wanted to be on my own always. I would cry in secret a lot and would regret so much.
I just wanted to go away where no one knows me and accept me for who I am. It cost me my inner peace, freedom , friendships and socialization.
My mindset changed when I learned the act of self-love. I accepted me for who I am. I started loving my shape and body. I gained back my confidence and now I can achieve a lot not minding my size.
I got into pageantry and was crowned Miss Peace Cameroon.
In God's eyes there's no fat or slim person. We are all equal and unique in our own ways . Just imagine a world with only slim people, it will be so boring right? It's our beauty in diversity that makes the world colourful.
My message for others going through the same situation is for them to build confidence in themselves, love themselves deeply, build their minds to always think positive. They can achieve whatever they desire, their physical characteristics should not be a hindrance.
You are beautiful just the way you are , you can do anything you put your mind to.
Be your number one encourager , you are a well of greatness ❤️💕.
Be authentic Be you Be real Be unique❤️