Lecture Notes: Ashley Graham - Body Positivity and Diversity

Introduction

• Speaker: Ashley Graham
• Topic: Body positivity and diversity in fashion
• Personal Message: Encouragement to embrace and love one's own body.

Personal Journey

• Started modeling at age 12 in Nebraska.
• Became a full-time plus-size model at 17.
• Initially faced labels such as "Fat Model."
• Early career involved extensive travel and exposure.

Challenges Faced

• Struggled with self-confidence due to industry standards.
• Experienced pressure to fit into societal norms of beauty.
• Sought validation through external means like parties and relationships.
• Overcame these by facing insecurities and redefining personal self-worth.

Industry Insights

• Fashion Industry Labeling: Plus size starts at US size 8 to 16.
• Majority are labeled "plus size," highlighting issues with labeling.
• Experience with major modeling agencies and redefining beauty standards.

Societal Impact and Statistics

• Only 2% of women consider themselves beautiful (Dove's Global Report).
• Importance of redefining beauty to include diverse physiques.

Role Models and Inspiration

• Inspired by her mother who emphasized internal beauty.
• Rejects societal role models for personal, internal validation.

Achievements and Goals

• Signed with IMG, promoting body diversity.
• Featured in major campaigns and magazines.
• Aims to be a voice for young women struggling with body image.

Message of Empowerment

• Encourages women to reclaim their bodies and self-worth.
• Challenges traditional beauty norms and promotes body positivity.
• Pleads for a body-positive environment for all genders.

Call to Action

• Use #TEDxBV15 for sharing self-affirming words.
• Reflect on personal affirmations and self-worth.

Conclusion

• Advocate for authenticity and self-love.
• Emphasizes the ongoing change towards body diversity.
• Inspires audience to embrace and celebrate their unique beauty.