Barbara Ferreira, from New York City, is revolutionizing beauty standards and the way young girls think of their bodies with the power of social media. We all hear about “the power of social media” and how quickly it’s developing, but Barbara (known as @boredbarbara) has created a personal brand unlike any other. She has used her immense following for the sole purpose of empowering young girls and promoting self love. Barbara, who is a signed Wilhelmina model and a former American Apparel model, is completely self-made at the young age of 18, and we can all learn something from her.
What is it about her that makes so many young girls idolize her? She recognizes what some tend to overlook: we are still human. We still have insecurities and all feel inadequate at times. That’s what makes self love so important. That’s what makes young girls, and what makes us all, who we are. That’s how we grow and thrive. Her compassion and understanding makes her incredibly inspiring and relatable. It makes her human
Barbara receives multiple messages on Tumblr and Twitter every day from young girls explaining their affinity for her, and how she’s inspired them to love themselves and their bodies. In fact, many of them claim to owe their confidence and happiness to her– and rightfully so. Barbara’s use of her large social media presence and following for the empowerment of young women is nothing short of selfless and admirable.
So what can we learn from her? Don’t let the unattainable societal pressures and expectations on women beat you down. Loving yourself always comes first. You are yours before you are anyone else’s. Love what you’ve been given and never compromise yourself. It’s a learning process. Be kind to yourself.
In Barbara’s own words: “Self love isn’t just a permanent state. We are allowed to feel inadequate sometimes because we are human and not perfect. It’s a work in progress for the rest of your life.”
Follow her on social media:
Twitter: @boredbarbara
Tumblr: www.boredbarbara.tumblr.com
Instagram: @barbienox