Chalamila calls for public awareness to end stigma facing people with vitiligo

DAR ES SALAAM: The founder of Beyond Skin Initiative, Clementina Chalamila, has said that a lack of public awareness about vitiligo remains a major challenge, contributing to stigma and discouraging many people living with the condition from pursuing their dreams.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Daily News Digital, Chalamila said some people with vitiligo choose to hide themselves for fear of facing discrimination, negative attitudes and social stigma.

She said she personally struggled with the emotional impact of hurtful comments and negative perceptions after her skin began losing its natural pigmentation. However, she later realized that a person’s worth is not defined by physical appearance but by their abilities, character and self-confidence.

To illustrate the persistent stigma surrounding vitiligo, Chalamila recounted an experience in which she was rejected by the head teacher at the school she attended. She said the incident made her feel different from other students and led her to withdraw from social interactions out of fear of being judged.

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She emphasized that vitiligo is not a contagious disease and does not prevent anyone from achieving their goals. She encouraged people living with the condition to embrace themselves, stop hiding and live confidently without allowing society’s perceptions to define them.

Chalamila also called on the public to stop discriminating against or mocking people with vitiligo, urging communities instead to treat them with respect, support and equal opportunities in all aspects of life.

Speaking about the causes of vitiligo, she said the condition may be linked to several factors, including stress, skin injuries and hereditary or genetic predisposition.

She concluded by noting that many people living with vitiligo continue to miss out on opportunities, including employment, because of persistent stigma. Having regained her own confidence, she urged others with the condition to believe in themselves and refuse to let vitiligo become a barrier to achieving their ambitions.