Fat, short, albino: When jokes become lifelong scars

For Iyanu Olawale, a 27-year-old office assistant in Lagos, the daily reality is a relentless assault on her dignity, stemming from persistent body-shaming.

“

I got there, they interviewed me and asked all the questions. I told them I could do the job. I left feeling hopeful and waited for their response, but they never called me back.

Olawale described her previous workplace as a "nightmare," where she endured constant remarks about her body size. This emotional abuse chipped away at her confidence, making her job search a painful ordeal. She recalled being rejected for an IT firm position after being told she was "overweight," a reason that shattered her hopes for a fresh start.

Her current employer also subjected her to hurtful comments, with the managing director asking, "Why are you this fat?" This question deeply wounded Olawale, who stated, "I wasn't the one who created myself." The daily torment has left her feeling trapped between emotional abuse and the fear of unemployment, leading to depression.

“

They told him I wouldn’t be able to do the job because I was overweight. I really felt bad.

The ridicule extends beyond her office. Traveling on public transport often involves drivers demanding she pay for two seats due to her size. In her neighborhood, young men whistle and chant mocking songs. "Everywhere I pass, people are looking at me," Olawale said, expressing her frustration and desire to stay home.

“

I was deeply hurt. I wasn’t the one who created myself.

Olawale's experience underscores the severe consequences of body-shaming, which can lead to shattered self-esteem, lost opportunities, and lasting emotional scars. Her struggle highlights the painful realities faced by individuals whose bodies society refuses to accept, impacting their mental health and daily lives.

“

Getting another job is a problem, and now I can’t leave where I’m being tormented every day. What will I do? I now suffer from depression. Please help me if you can.