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Summary
Omobolaji Bowale-Kalejaiye, a contestant in the upcoming Albinism Beauty Pageant, is using her fabric business and advocacy to inspire others and break barriers. She addressed the false belief that people with albinism are blind, and encourages young girls to embrace their beauty and purpose. Omobolaji also hopes the pageant will open doors for her both in Nigeria and internationally, helping her gain recognition for her advocacy and work with brands that support people with albinism.
As the only person with albinism in her family, Omobolaji Bowale-Kalejaiye has turned her uniqueness into strength. She runs a thriving fabric business, makes handmade crafts and essential products, and uses her skills to inspire and support others.
Now, as one of the trailblasing contestants in Nigeria’s first-ever Albinism Beauty Pageant, organised by Misty Glam Company (MGC), Omobolaji shares what the upcoming pageant means to her, her journey as a woman with albinism, and her dreams for the future.
Omobolaji Bowale-Kalejaiye– Entrepreneur and Albinism Advocate
- Why did you decide to become a model?
I joined the pageant because I want to change the way people perceive those of us living with albinism. We are not weak or less than anyone else — we are talented, beautiful, and capable of doing great things.
This platform gives us the chance to show our skills and be heard. I also want to grow my confidence and use my gift to inspire others like me.
- What misconception about albinism would you like to change?
One common misconception is that people with albinism are blind or cannot see at all. This is not true. We can see, but because of the lack of melanin in our eyes, our vision may be poor.
With the help of glasses or other vision aids, we can see better and live like anyone else.
- What advice do you have for young girls living with albinism?
To every young girl living with albinism, I want you to always remember this: God did not make a mistake when He created you. You are beautiful, intelligent, and full of purpose.
Believe in yourself. Don’t let anyone make you feel less. Walk with confidence and face your education seriously, because education is power, and it will take you far and earn you respect in the world.
- What is your goal for the next five years?
In the next five years, I hope this pageant will open doors for me — both in Nigeria and internationally. I want to be recognised for my advocacy and work with brands that support people with albinism.
By then, I plan to have my own NGO where I will help build confidence in people living with albinism through skill training and education on how to care for their skin.
I also want my fabric business to grow bigger than I ever imagined, so I can use part of my profit to support more children with albinism by giving them clothes at the end of each year.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s first Albinism Beauty Pageant, organised by Misty Glam Company (MGC), will take place on September 13, 2025, in Lagos. For partnerships or sponsorships, contact MGC via email at hello@mistyglamcompany.com or WhatsApp at 0704 870 4115.
