Human connection and feeling seen are vital to our sense of self and wellbeing. In a four-part series of virtual heart-to-hearts, as part of Refinery29’s Self-Service partnership with Dove, we’ve connected women to discuss beauty, body image, identity, visibility and activism in relation to self-esteem, to show the deep connection and wisdom that can come from speaking honestly about our experiences.

As part of the series, Tanya Compas & Amika George have spoken about Queer Black Christmas and Free Periods, Monique Dior Jarrett & Shazia Hosen have opened up about physicality, Emma Dabiri & Stephanie Yeboah have shared their experiences around beauty and Zina Alfa and Yazmin Lacey have discussed why hair discrimination needs to end.

Overall, we wanted the features to feel uplifting and warm, with a psychedelic digital feel given we pivoted to virtual conversations during Covid-19.

The stories are also over on Dove.

Credits:

Creative Direction: Amelia Bowe

Editorial Direction: Cate Sevilla

Produced By: Kirsty Macsween & Kyla Leigh

Written By: Sarah Raphael

Illustrations & Animation: Chrissie Abbott

Design: Montse Tanús