By Nnasom David

Two powerful works—one from the pen of Nigerian poet Valentine Okolo, the other from the screen of American filmmaker Tyler Perry—are drawing attention for their bold celebration of Black identity and melanin beauty.

Okolo’s poem “Black Girl” has captured national and international attention for its succinct yet striking affirmation of Black skin. Published at a time when conversations about colorism and representation remain urgent, the six-line poem presents Blackness not just as acceptable but as regal and sacred.

“Your skin is dark chocolate / dipped in honey,” the poem begins. “You are / a delicious shade / of melanin.” The verses, while brief, deliver a potent message of pride, dignity, and love—especially directed toward Black women who have often been marginalized or stereotyped in mainstream media.

Literary critics and cultural commentators have praised the poem’s depth and simplicity, calling it “a chant of affirmation” and “a quiet rebellion” against centuries of negative portrayal of African features. Okolo, who is also a filmmaker and visual artist, has described his work as a deliberate attempt to reshape narratives around Blackness, urging readers to embrace melanin as both heritage and legacy.

Across the Atlantic, Perry’s latest Netflix series “Beauty in Black” echoes a similar message through dramatic storytelling. Set in the world of Bellarie Cosmetics, the show follows the lives of Black women navigating ambition, identity, and societal expectations. Central characters like Kimmie and Mallory are portrayed as complex, strong, and unapologetically authentic—mirroring the poem’s core message.

Perry, known for fusing entertainment with social commentary, uses “Beauty in Black” to explore deeper themes of empowerment, image, and resilience. While Okolo’s poem exalts the physical beauty of Blackness, Perry’s series examines its emotional and psychological layers, highlighting how Black women persist and thrive despite adversity.

Together, the two works form a compelling cross-continental dialogue on the meaning of beauty, the impact of representation, and the enduring strength of Black identity. Both have been lauded not only for their artistic merit but for their cultural importance in challenging stereotypes and promoting self-acceptance.

As these works gain traction among audiences in Africa and abroad, their creators remain united by a common goal: to uplift Black voices, affirm Black beauty, and reclaim narratives that have long been distorted or ignored.