Would you ever consider bleaching your skin for $10,000? Nyakim Gatwech, a Minnesota-based Sudanese model, was asked that very question by a light skinned black man that was Uber-ing her to a job interview. This incident was back in 2017 and since then, Gatwech has booked numerous modeling gigs — most recently becoming the face of Annabelle Cosmetics.

Hi everyone I️ would like to say the wait is final over Annabelle introduces the EDGE COLLECTION, a geometric makeup line inspired by all the confident, unconventional and strong women. Comfortable in their own skin, but also sensual and passionate, they are proud of who they are. For them, edge is not a style, it’s an attitude! They dare to be bold and different. For them, edge is simply being Fearless. I️ can’t wait to see you guy try them out I’m so grateful to be the face of this amazing campaign. Head over to @AnnabelleCosmetics and see more of these amazing colors can wait to hear your thoughts on it❤️#ABWhatsYourEDGE? #BringYourBeautiful

A post shared by Nyakim Gatwech (@queennyakim) on InstagramAug 1, 2018 at 12:39pm PDT

Gatwech chatted with Cosmopolitan back in 2017 and shared that the skin bleaching question is a common one, but a question that doesn’t seem to bother her anymore.

"I’m used to people asking the stupidest questions ever (about my skin)," she shared, so she was shocked to see the support she received after posting the incident on her Instagram.

We all have flaws and insecurity, so it is ok to dislike things about Yourslef but we have to remember to be thankful as well, what is your favorite part of your body?? Got love the @fentybeauty body lava😍😫 #drippingmelanin🍫💧#queenofdark🍫🖤👸🏿 #southsudanmade🇸🇸

A post shared by Nyakim Gatwech (@queennyakim) on InstagramJul 17, 2018 at 1:24pm PDT

Seeing how her story affected others encouraged the self-proclaimed queen of dark chocolate to continue sharing stories of self-acceptance on social media, which boosted her following from 20,000 followers to 393,000 followers.

Athens ll • We’re going to tell our own story, we too will become myths and legends.King and Queens should always be United.👸🏿🤴🏿 #melaninmondays🍫 #blackisbeautiful #selfloveisthebestlove❤️💯 Models: @yawamoakogh @queennyakim 📸 @sethnocentric

A post shared by Nyakim Gatwech (@queennyakim) on InstagramJul 30, 2018 at 11:52am PDT

With her newest feature as the face of Annabelle Cosmetics, there’s absolutely no denying that her beauty is out of this world. She can be seen across the Canadian beauty brand's in-store displays in bright lipsticks — red on top, pink on bottom — and fierce blue eyeliner that pops against her skin.

The campaign was released for the launch of their newest addition to the brand, the EDGE Collection, which Gatwech describes in an Instagram post as "a geometric makeup line inspired by all the confident, unconventional and strong women that are comfortable in their own skin, but also sensual and passionate."

I️ never thought I️ would be the face of any brand, growing up I️ was so harsh on myself, didn’t think I️ was worthy or beautiful but here I️ am @annabellecosmetics validating my beauty…dreams do come true 💙 #queenofdark🍫🖤👸🏿 #southsudanmade🇸🇸 #selfloveisthebestlove #blackisbeautiful #blackisgold✨ #melaningoddess✨🍫

A post shared by Nyakim Gatwech (@queennyakim) on InstagramAug 2, 2018 at 11:41am PDT

Be sure to follow Nyakim Gatwech on Instagram to keep up with everything she’s doing or just admire her beauty, because how can you not?

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adelfa marr

Writing since October 2025 · 1 story contributed