In a world where beauty standards often feel as rigid as they are unrealistic Nyawira Mumenya, popularly known as Miss Nyawi is here to remind us that “Your body is not the issue.” As a well-known content creator, she’s on a mission to remind women, especially plus-size women to learn how to celebrate their curves, and step into every room with confidence. With her vibrant personality and unapologetic approach to fashion, Miss Nyawi is a beacon of positivity for women everywhere, especially those who have felt sidelined by mainstream beauty norms. She knows firsthand that self-love isn’t something that happens overnight—it’s a journey filled with ups and downs, just like any other relationship.
Through her captivating content, she’s not just advocating for confidence; she’s advocating for the freedom to be yourself, to embrace your body as it is, and to reject the outdated notion that beauty is one-size-fits-all. In this interview, Miss Nyawi shares her insights on everything from handling days of low confidence to the power of social media in shaping beauty standards, all while reminding us that true confidence comes from within.
Miss Nyawi on representation, body image & confidence
How do you handle days when you’re not feeling as confident about your body? Do you have any go-to rituals or routines?
I believe everyone has experienced days when they don’t feel as confident about their body, and I am no exception. It’s especially challenging when an outfit doesn’t fit the way you imagined it would, or when you’ve been consistent with your workout routine but you don’t see the results yet.
These moments can definitely impact your body confidence. On such days, I rely on mantras to lift my spirits. My go-to affirmations are: ‘I am beautiful,’ ‘I appreciate my body,’ and ‘My body nourishes me.’ Additionally, I find it helpful to follow people with similar body types for inspiration and a confidence boost.
Do you think plus-size women are well represented in media today?
Yes, for sure! We are witnessing a significant increase in representation and diversity in the media space, which I believe is crucial, especially for younger girls. Seeing diverse role models and stories helps them feel seen and valued, fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging them to embrace their unique identities
What are some common misconceptions about body image and confidence that you’d like to address?
One common misconception about body image and confidence that I’d like to address is the notion that larger individuals need to lose weight to be healthy. Many of us go to the gym regularly and maintain a healthy diet. It’s important not to assume that just because someone is bigger, they are not healthy or taking care of themselves.
Learning to love your body is a journey, and it doesn’t happen overnight. I didn’t wake up one day feeling super confident and comfortable in my own skin; it took time and effort.
The impact of social media & mental health on body Confidence
Do you believe that social media and influencers play a role in shaping our views on beauty standards?
Absolutely! As a Content Creator, I am very intentional with what I post because my page is dedicated to celebrating curves and confidence. I often have younger girls tell me how my content makes them feel better about themselves, which highlights the powerful influence of social media.
It’s a space where we can all use our voices to make a difference, no matter how small. I use my platform to promote body positivity and confidence.
Do you think mental health plays a role in body confidence and self-esteem?
Yes, it does. When you’re struggling with your mental health and don’t feel good about yourself, it’s easy to fall into a negative mindset that can be difficult to escape. A stable mental state is essential for maintaining self-care and fostering a positive self-image.
It’s important to prioritize mental well-being as it directly impacts how we perceive and appreciate our bodies.
How do you support and encourage body positivity in your circle of friends and family?
I’m always encouraging my friends and family to wear whatever makes them feel good without worrying about others’ opinions. I believe it’s important to seize the moment and enjoy life to the fullest, as we only have one life and anything can happen. Embracing our unique styles and celebrating our bodies just as they are is key to fostering confidence.
What message would you like to share with women struggling with body image issues and learning to love the skin they’re in?
Learning to love your body is a journey, and it doesn’t happen overnight. I didn’t wake up one day feeling super confident and comfortable in my own skin; it took time and effort. For women struggling with body image issues, I would advise surrounding yourself with people who nurture and uplift you, helping to boost your confidence.
It’s important to have friends who support you without judgment or criticism. Also, remember not to be too hard on yourself. As long as you’re consistently working on becoming the best version of yourself, you will gradually gain more confidence and feel more comfortable in your own skin. Most importantly, remember that your size does not define you—so don’t let it dictate your self-worth or become your identity.
As we wrap up this insightful conversation with Miss Nyawi, it’s clear that her message resonates deeply with women of all shapes and sizes. Her candid approach to body positivity and confidence challenges the stereotypes that so often dominate the media landscape. Miss Nyawi is a refreshing reminder that true beauty lies in diversity and that confidence isn’t about conforming to societal standards, it’s about embracing who you are unapologetically. Whether it’s through her mantras of self-love, her encouragement to wear whatever makes you feel good, or her dedication to using social media as a force for positive change. Miss Nyawi embodies the belief that your body is not and has never been the issue.
