Only a handful of models have hugely coveted Ted Talks under their belts, and now Iskra Lawrence follows in the footsteps of Ashley Graham, Cameron Russell and Geena Rocero by taking to the famous stage. The stunning – and seriously inspiring - model, who boasts an incredible three million followers on Instagram, used the platform to share her thoughts on body image, eating disorders and the importance of self love.
STORY: Iskra Lawrence urges women to love their curves in new inspirational Instagram post
"We have a problem. The most important relationship we will ever have is the one with ourselves—but we aren’t taught about it," Iskra opened the talk. "Could self-care education enrich our lives, combat our insecurities, and enable us to reach our full potential? Yes. And I’m connecting with you today because this matters. Self-esteem affects every part of our lives: Our relationship with ourselves, our loved ones, with coworkers, even food and exercise."
The star has been in the modelling industry for years – but hasn't always accepted her shape or size. "I've had to forgive myself for the times I saw retouched pictures of myself with slimmer arms, a thigh gap, unachievably smooth skin, with no cellulite or back fat, and thought that's how I should look in real life," she said.
Iskra is known for championing self-love and positive body image
WATCH: Iskra Lawrence strips down on subway to share inspiring message about body confidence
"I now know that just because people decided to alter my appearance to look 'perfected,' it doesn't make me any less beautiful in the real world – where I can't walk around airbrushed." We couldn't agree more this sentiment – or the rest of Iskra's speech, for that matter. Make sure you give it a watch!
