It took 21 seconds for my bad day to turn into a good day, thanks to Achieng Agutu gracing my TikTok for you page. The video in question shows Achieng with a camera taking photos of us (the viewers) and telling us to “release it” while touching her stomach. Although simple in its premise, it struck me to hear the polar opposite of the all too common, pre-photo phrase “suck it in”, ultimately resulting in what I deemed a ‘self-conscious’ day turn into a confident day.
This summarises the content and overall energy of 26-year-old content creator and model Achieng Agutu. Known as the ‘Tantalizing Confidence Queen’ on social media, Achieng prides herself on making feel-good and empowering content for her 800K followers. With pre-summer anxiety starting to set in, we thought what better time to speak to a literal queen of confidence. Read the full Q&A with Achieng below.
For even more Achieng content, check out our recent podcast episode here:
Q: You have over 800K followers online, made your debut as a plus-size model at Miami Swim Week, and been featured as a 2024 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Rookie, which are incredible achievements. How do you feel now that you’re here?
A: I feel incredible and grateful for being here.
Q: You wrote a piece called ‘Reflections On Living In A White World’ where you touched on this beautifully and I would love to hear about some of your experiences that led you to write such a pivotal piece.
A: I was in college when I wrote it. Being in a predominantly white space , I wanted to share my story and the experience of not feeling seen and sharing my story with other people who may be going through the same can know they aren’t alone.
Q: Your morning dance videos on Instagram started as a personal motivation but quickly became a source of inspiration for many. What has this journey of becoming a ‘Confidence Queen’ taught you about the power of digital spaces in creating communal empowerment and confidence?
A: I saw how my videos weren’t just only motivating myself, but others, as well. It is exciting to have a community that I can speak to through my videos and see that it is helping others.
Q: In previous interviews, you’ve spoken candidly about moving from a place of self-doubt to becoming the embodiment of confidence. Tell us, what was this confidence journey like? Could you share a pivotal moment or practice that helped you embrace your true self and project confidence so powerfully?
A: My journey was not linear and still is continuing and growing. I woke up and decided to change and I decided to put positive energy out and started to . I do affirmations often that helps.
Q: On TikTok, you talk about redefining beauty standards and developing confidence from the inside out. Could you share how you use your platform to challenge and change these narratives, especially for young women and girls who look up to you?
A: I feel like the content I post is about myself and continue to show up as myself. Breaking the standard of beauty and showing others who look like me it is ok to express yourself and be your full confident self.
Q: You are a huge role model for so many people. Do you ever get overwhelmed with the responsibilities and pressures of having all eyes on you and maintaining yourself as a positive role model in the public eye?
A: I do not feel pressure. I live my life and do me. I’m human, I make mistakes and I learn from them.
Q: You’ve spoken out against the ‘strong Black woman’ stereotype. Can you elaborate on the importance of allowing space for vulnerability and complexity within the narratives surrounding Black women?
A: Black women are pictured as strong and that is not true. I am gentle, soft, a flower that need to be taken care of. It is important to speak up and not be labelled as a strong black women and there is also a space for other women to know it is ok to not be strong and to be gentleman.
Q: Entering the fashion industry, especially as a Kenyan plus-size model, presents its unique set of challenges. How have these experiences influenced your perspective on diversity and inclusion within the industry, and what changes do you advocate for?
A: We need more diversity in the industry. More body shape, skin color, etc. I am advocating for people who do not look like the standard of beauty. So, being posted on Sports Illustrated broke down that beauty standard that people typically see.
Q: Your use of colour in personal style and digital content significantly contributes to your vibrant and empowering online presence. Could you elaborate on the messages or feelings you aim to convey through your fashion choices?
A: It’s all about colour and vibrant colour, jewellery and showing that through my outfits. I want people to feel excited and happy when they see my outfit. And to see the vibrant colours, jewellery, and that my outfit stands out, just like my personality. Also, showing curvy women that they can look good in anything. You can wear a cropped top, bodycon dress, and look good.
Q: Additionally, what advice would you offer to individuals looking to express their identity and emotions through their wardrobe?
A: Do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try to explore your fashion through your personality.
Q: Would you call yourself a feminist? Is there anything you’d want to tell feminists of today? Or maybe any changes you’d like to see in a feminist space?
A: Yes, I support women’s rights. I want to see more intersexuality.
To see more from Achieng, you can follow her on socials at @noordinarynoire
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