Living with a physical or genetic difference can shape a person’s life in ways they never expect. For Mosunmola, her birthmark is more than just a feature on her face—it’s a part of her story, one that has taken her on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. In this interview, she shares her struggles and triumphs with SONIA OKERE, offering a glimpse into what it means to embrace yourself even when you look different
“My name is Mosunmola Amashada, and I am the eldest of four children. I was born into a humble family in Lagos, though I am an indigene of Osun State.
There’s something unique about me: I have a birthmark on my forehead. My mom told me that while she was pregnant, a prophet said the child in her womb was special and powerful. He also instructed her not to cut my hair unless I decided to do so myself.
When I was born, I had so much hair that my hairline extended toward my eyebrowss. It was unusual and it caught everyone’s attention. People who came to see my mom’s baby would ask, “Why does she look like this?” But despite the comments and stares, my parents loved me fiercely. They saw me as a blessing, even when the world outside our home didn’t.
At birth, I had so much hair that my hairline extended toward my eyebrows
According to the Johns Hopkins Medicine website, a birthmark is a naturally occurring mark on the skin that is present at birth or develops shortly after. These marks vary in size, shape, and colour and can appear anywhere on the body. While some birthmarks fade over time, others remain throughout life, becoming a unique part of a person’s identity — as is the case with Mosunmola. Psychologists agree that though often harmless, birthmarks can sometimes impact self-esteem or health, depending on their type and location. They add, however, that embracing birthmarks fosters confidence and celebrates individuality and natural beauty.
The challenges of being different
Growing up, I quickly realized I wasn’t like other kids. People stared at me when I walked by. Some even called me an ogbanje, a child from the marine kingdom. Others whispered that my parents must have made a deal with supernatural forces to bring me into the world.
My parents took me to the hospital, where doctors explained that my birthmark was a natural occurrence
Things got worse when I started primary school. I was teased mercilessly. My classmates would draw pictures of hairy animals and label them with my name. It was cruel, and it broke my confidence. I started to believe the hurtful things people said about me.
Through all of this, my parents were my biggest supporters. They showered me with love and reminded me every day of my worth. They even took me to the hospital, where doctors explained that my birthmark was a natural occurrence. But no matter how much reassurance I got at home, the outside world didn’t want to listen.
When I started sharing my story on social media, people left nasty comments about my appearance
When I grew up and started sharing my story on social media, I faced another wave of criticisms. People left nasty comments about my appearance. But this time, I chose to laugh it off. I refused to let their words define me.
Rising above the noise
The hardest part of my journey was learning to accept myself. Once I embraced who I was, I decided that no one’s cruelty could control my life anymore. I worked on my mindset and now, negativity doesn’t get to me.
I also started to explore my talents. I discovered that I could sing, dance, act, and so much more. Slowly, people stopped focusing on my birthmark and started noticing my gifts. For the first time, I felt seen—not as someone to be pitied or ridiculed, but as someone to admire. Today, I’m proud to have a growing fan base on social media, where I share my story and talents to inspire others.
The hardest part of my journey was learning to accept myself. but My birthmark, which was once a source of pain, has become a symbol of resilience
Adufe fashion store
I’ve always had a love for fashion. When I was younger, I loved participating in school fashion parades. That passion stayed with me, and as I grew older, I decided to become a fashion designer.
Adufe Fashion Store is my brand, and I’ve been building it for years. I started sewing before I even got into the university. Balancing school and running a business haven’t been easy, but I’ve kept pushing forward.
In addition to fashion, I dream of releasing gospel songs one day. Singing is another passion of mine, and I believe that the dream will become a reality very soon.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that every mark—whether physical, emotional, or symbolic—tells a story. My birthmark, which was once a source of pain, has become a symbol of resilience and purpose. Today, I can say with confidence: I am proud of who I am and the journey that brought me here.
Balancing school and running a business haven’t been easy, but I’ve kept pushing forward
