When people find out I am fashion model: they rush to my Instagram, like my pictures, follow me, and ask me how they can become a model. I’m very active on social media and I’ve made valuable connections on Instagram and Facebook. One week, I posted one of my favorite photos from a shoot. The lighting was perfect, makeup on point, I couldn’t wait to share it! Usually when I post a photo, my followers and fans comment on my pictures, giving me tons of love and encouragement.
However, sometimes internet trolls will try and put me down. Occasionally someone will leave a nasty comment like my nose is too big or my teeth aren’t straight. I get judged on my looks all the time in the modeling world. But online?? Give me a break. Unfortunately, this happens all too often.
Online bullying is a real problem, especially for today’s youth. The rise of social media platforms has also contributed to a rise in online bullying, teenage depression, low self-esteem and suicide.
While I was in high school, social media wasn’t as big as it is today. As an athlete, I could have used social media to show off my highlight reels or if I were modeling then, my portfolio. What you do and say on social media can have negative consequences. It can affect job offers, college acceptances, relationships etc. Nowadays, I promote myself as well as my new non-profit FACTS. So instead of adding to the problem, ask yourself how you can use your social media positively?
Jasmine Brown is a fashion model and the founder & Director of FACTS for Youth. Learn more: @thejasmineamber; @_factsforyouth