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Meet the beautiful and talented Dominique Ksacha

03 Jul 2022

By Nethmie Dehigama At 24 years of age, Dominique Ksacha has already started making a name for herself in the world of makeup, modelling, and advocacy for body positivity. Dominique chatted with The Sunday Morning Happinez about her venture – Niques Faces, the obstacles of being a plus-sized model in Sri Lanka, and why being vocal about fatness and body acceptance is important. Needless to say, she is paving the way for many young girls and boys struggling with their body image – a much-needed leading light for many in the country.  Q: How would you describe yourself? A: I am a full-time, freelance makeup artist (MUA), hair stylist, plus-size model and I am deeply passionate about body politics, social issues, and mental health awareness. I advocate for fat liberation. I think I’m a weirdo by most standards and that’s definitely not a bad thing. I also geek out excessively over astrology and psychology. Q: Tell us about Niques Faces.  A: Niques Faces is my alter ego and the brand for my work as an MUA and hairstylist. I am incredibly grateful to be able to consistently express myself creatively. Witnessing people feel beautiful and like the best versions of themselves is an incredibly wonderful feeling that I am honoured to experience. Makeup is also very much my escape from the world; it has helped me support myself financially and also helped me navigate my own self-expression. Q: How did you get into modelling? A: Quite accidentally. I had never intended on modelling, nor had I ever entertained the thought because I am fat and didn’t think you could be fat and model. I was approached by a brand looking for a plus-size model for their shoot. After much convincing and battling the anxiety and imposter syndrome I was feeling, I agreed. Some time later, a modelling agency did a model call and as a shot in the dark I decided to go and to my surprise, I got recruited. I realised I really enjoyed it and now, two years later I am a freelance model. Q: What are the obstacles when it comes to being a plus-size model in Sri Lanka? A: The biggest obstacle is that brands don’t cater to plus sizes, so as a result there are limited options in the market to model. Fat people are an afterthought when it comes to fashion trends. It is frustrating that in 2022, mainstream brands in Sri Lanka haven’t extended their sizes yet. Fat people deserve pretty clothes as well, we are more than ‘ugly’ masses of fat meant to be lumped into shapeless, black outfits. Q: Why is it important that you talk about fat positivity and educate audiences on fatness? A: Because fat people are an afterthought, we are often neglected and treated with lower regard due to the inherent disgust and fear much of society has for fatness. From being ignored, even though we usually take up the most space in the room (pun intended) to having our medical needs ignored because doctors only see fat, there are challenges. Stigma surrounding weight is harmful not just to fat people but to everyone as it is also the leading cause of the rise in eating disorders worldwide. Fat people receive the brunt of these negative messages though. We are told we are unworthy until we become thin but why should body size determine what a person deserves? Q: Are there things you wish brands considered when it comes to inclusivity? A: It would be nice to have Sri Lankan brands expand on what they consider to be inclusive and get creative in their inclusivity. As an example, not all jewellery brands need to have a thin, standard-sized model; fat people wear jewellery as well. Hire models who vary from the standard body type; inclusive representation is so very important when it comes to portraying things to children and teens and it is also important when it comes to our own mindsets around bodies. Q: What do you see yourself doing in 10 years? A: I would love to own an exclusively plus-size, clothing line/brand as the Sri Lankan market desperately lacks fashionable clothing for fat people. Q: At this moment in time, what do you think the secret to happiness is? A: Being able to be yourself, as loudly and proudly as possible. Though that is definitely easier said than done in our society.   PHOTOS © JANITH HEENATIGALA, KAVINDU SIVARAJ, CHAMYA LIYANAGE, YADUSHIKA R  


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