Kheris Rogers, a teenager from Los Angeles, is proving that adversity can fuel innovation and change.
After enduring bullying for her darker skin tone, Kheris turned pain into purpose by launching her clothing brand, Flexin’ in My Complexion, at just 11 years old.
The brand celebrates self-love and challenges colorism, empowering people of all shades to embrace their beauty unapologetically.
Kheris’s journey began in elementary school, where she faced ridicule for her skin color, even receiving a black crayon from her teacher to depict herself in an art project.
Though her transfer to a more diverse school offered little respite from taunts, Kheris found strength in her family and the supportive messages she received online.
This encouragement inspired her to advocate for change, starting with her fashion line.
Flexin’ in My Complexion quickly gained national attention, resonating with a global audience. Beyond its success as a fashion brand, it has become a movement, sparking conversations about colorism and self-esteem.
Kheris uses her platform to encourage others to stand up against bullying and embrace their individuality, saying:
“Don’t ever let someone make you feel bad for being who you are.”
Her message has reached millions, with celebrities like Lupita Nyong’o praising her work.
“If you are dealing with bullying, do not be afraid to stand up for yourself and do not be afraid to speak up. Ever since I started speaking out, I feel so much better. Holding how you really feel in is not a good feeling. There have been adults commenting on my pictures or videos saying that I am just overly sensitive and that colorism is not real. However, since I found my voice, I do not care about anyone’s opinion anymore. I know that colorism is real because I have experienced it all my life and I am going to continue to speak out about it,” she tells Kay Kay’s Way.
Now a leading voice in the fight against colorism, Kheris Rogers exemplifies resilience, inspiring future generations to love themselves boldly and without apology.
