I was born with a very rare condition called Epidermal Nevus Syndrome. This condition affects certain parts of my body and recently has compromised my walking ability. My condition started to affect me more during my middle school and high school years which ultimately damaged my confidence. I have undergone 9 surgeries and have had to relearn basic life skills. At the time I was angry at the world for making me different and I felt utterly embarrassed because of what I was going through.  

During my struggles and depressing times as a teenager I turned to beauty and fashion because it’s what got me out of bed everyday. Even though I was going through a rough time, I would dress up and have my mom take pictures of me to post on Instagram. I created a platform called Malia’s Movement to share my real life. Creating this platform not only helped me to tell my story but it inspired those going through similar life experiences. My confidence started to grow as well because I was able to channel my insecurities into something I loved doing. 

Finding my passion was the stepping stone to finding myself. I used to hate looking at myself in the mirror because I felt different. I didn’t see many people on the big screen who I could identify with and so I decided to become that person. I shared what it was like to live in my shoes. I showed my surgery experiences, physical therapy visits, and school journey. As I began to open up I saw myself become less angry and insecure. It was not easy and it took at least 2-3 years for me to find who I was.

Sitting at my desk to put on my makeup and sorting through clothes to find a cute outfit to take a picture fills me with so much joy. It is something I have control of which makes me feel in charge and powerful. Standing in front of a camera gives me the opportunity to tell my own story. I have a disability but that’s not always the first thing I want someone to notice about me. I take pride in sharing my story with the world because not many people could go through what I’ve gone through and still carry a smile on their face.