In honour of International Women's Day today, a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women, GLAMOUR launches the “Women in Charge” series. A weekly profile series that will introduce you to phenomenal African women who are entrepreneurs, creatives and leaders in their respective fields.
The series begins with Mala Bryan, a fashion model, entrepreneur and the creator of Malaville Dolls. Mala created these beautiful dolls as a response to a social movement to help reinforce positive body image among young girls of colour. The individually named dolls come with different personalities and fierce natural hair styles. We talk to Mala about running a business and life in general.
GLAMOUR: What does it take to be an entrepreneur?
Mala: Finding something that you truly love and are passionate about and turning it into a business.
How are you navigating running your own business during a pandemic? It was a bit tough at the beginning because of the border restrictions, but then, I took advantage of the downtime to really have a look at my business and to figure out what’s next for my brand and how to move forward.
It gave me time to do proper research and also to create content that I probably would have been too busy for in the past. With the borders now opened I am now able to work on my new samples for books and crayons so that once things get to the new normal, I will be ready.
GLAMOUR: What’s the toughest thing about being a model?
Mala: Having to handle rejection often. Sometimes clients tell you no straight to your face, and other times you’ll be optioned for a job, only to be released at the last minute. Honestly, it can be heart-breaking. Being a model means taking care of your body and your look – do you.
GLAMOUR: Has the modelling industry evolved with the times when it comes to representation and inclusiveness?
Mala: I’m happy I got to experience the film era before everything went digital. When I started, the industry was difficult for models of colour like me – there’d be that one who’d get all the work. Luckily, I’ve had my ‘It girl’ moments. Brands are becoming more inclusive; however, I still feel we have a long way to go before everyone’s fully accepted. Nowadays, people are calling out brands on social media for showing a lack of diversity, and everything is pretty much out in the open.
Unfortunately, some brands are using the idea of inclusivity as a marketing strategy. I hope that one day, things will change and that we’ll all be represented because it matters.
GLAMOUR: Have you ever doubted yourself? and how do you take care of your mind and body?
Mala: I’ve been in the modelling business for 17 years, and I’m happy to say that I’ve been able to find a balance that works for me. I had a moment of weakness when I lived in New York. I would eat very little to be a certain size, but I realised it didn’t make me happy, so I had a chat with my agent and relocated back to Miami, where there was less pressure. I read a lot. I love self-help books, and I pick and choose what works for me and apply it to my lifestyle. I also love fasting because it helps me strengthen my mind and listen to what my body needs. I eat everything but in moderation.
GLAMOUR: Given an opportunity, what would you tell your 16-year-old self?
Mala: I would tell her to not give up on her dreams because my obsession with dolls started around that time and I pushed it aside. Maybe Malaville dolls would have been one of the top toy brands by now. But I am happy with where we are at the moment and there is lots of room to grow.
*Connect with Mala on Instagram @malabryan @malavilledolls
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