In a world that often emphasizes unrealistic beauty standards, Laura Tomu, a 19-year-old student at Nust University, is breaking barriers and proving that your size should never hold you back from pursuing your dreams. From her childhood dreams of being a beauty queen to her journey of self-acceptance and success in the modeling industry, Laura’s story is one of resilience, determination, and empowerment. In this interview, Laura shares her experiences and aspirations, offering hope and inspiration to young women who may be struggling with body image issues.
Ever since she was a little girl growing up in Redcliff, Kwekwe, Laura Tomu dreamed of being a beauty queen. From strutting around her father’s house in heels, catwalking to the empowering beats of “One Step At A Time” by Jordin Sparks, Laura envisioned herself as a newly crowned Miss World. Her passion for beauty and grace was evident from an early age, and it fueled her aspirations.
However, as Laura reached her teenage years, she faced a significant challenge. Her body started developing curves that she considered to be in all the wrong places. Hips, thighs, and a chest that seemed to attract unwanted attention made her feel like an uncomfortable stranger in her own skin. The teasing from boys at school only worsened her self-confidence, as they would hoot and holler about not needing bras due to her bosom shaking with every step.
One particular incident during her first year of high school left a lasting impact on Laura. On a Casual Day, she wore a lovely floral pencil dress, only to be publicly humiliated by a classmate who loudly commented on her choice of undergarments and the movement of her body. The laughter from a group of boys intensified her feelings of self-consciousness, leading her to resort to wearing tight jeans to suppress her natural curves.
Despite the challenges she faced, Laura’s journey took a positive turn when she met Thulani Manonoke. He saw something in her that she had forgotten about herself and encouraged her to pursue her passion for modeling regardless of her body image concerns. With Thulani’s support, Laura joined the Youth With Class Modeling Agency as a commercial model, embracing her unique beauty and defying the doubts that once consumed her.
Laura’s self-confidence and belief in her dreams were further fueled when she came across Jane Dipika Garrett, the crowned Miss Universe Nepal 2023. Jane’s curvy figure challenged the notion that beauty only comes in one size, giving Laura hope and inspiration. Slowly but surely, Laura began to love herself again, understanding that beauty truly is skin deep and that what shines brightest is what’s inside.
Laura’s journey of self-acceptance and empowerment has not gone unnoticed. She recently participated in a Breast Cancer Awareness Shoot, which was featured on Nust Celebs and Miss Festive Zimbabwe’s Instagram page. Her talent and energy caught the attention of VinTen, an up-and-coming artist from the National University of Science and Technology, who offered her a role as a video vixen in his upcoming music video. Furthermore, the founder of PG media, an emerging branding company, recognized Laura’s potential and suggested that she become their brand ambassador, a role she eagerly awaits.
Laura’s story serves as a living proof that size should never hold anyone back from pursuing their dreams. Through her experiences, she aims to give hope to all the young women who may feel like they don’t measure up to societal beauty standards. Laura believes that everyone can fulfill their dreams and encourages others not to give up on themselves before they even start. Her aspirations include earning name recognition, showcasing the items she models in the best possible light, and becoming a role model for less experienced talents in the industry.
Laura Tomu’s journey is an inspiration to all who have struggled with body image issues and self-doubt. Her determination to pursue her dreams regardless of societal expectations is a powerful message of empowerment and self-acceptance. As she continues to make her mark in the modeling industry, Laura hopes to inspire young women to embrace their unique beauty and never give up on themselves. With her talent, resilience, and positive attitude, Laura is paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse modeling industry, where beauty truly knows no bounds.