© Sylvia Mac
“I had to find equal opportunities by advocating for inclusivity, using adaptive strategies, and raising awareness about the challenges burn survivors and other individuals with differences and disabilities face.”
“I am Sylvia Mac, a child burn survivor, body-positive campaigner, and award-winning wellness warrior. I am the founder of Love Disfigure, a network for people with visible, invisible, and hidden differences to embrace their bodies. I am also the CEO of Love Disfigure Talent Agency, supporting people with differences, disfigurement, and disability who work as models, actors, and speakers.
Physical limitations such as scar tissue can restrict movement and cause chronic pain. My scars are sensitive to temperature and sunlight, requiring extra care. I have to deal with emotional challenges and speak with a psychologist about my trauma and PTSD.
Finding comfortable clothing, managing medical appointments, and adapting living spaces can be time-consuming whereas specialized treatments and care are costly. Balancing advocacy work, and agency work with personal life can be emotionally taxing, because supporting others and raising awareness requires significant emotional energy.
Despite these challenges, I love my advocacy work that continues to inspire, highlight resilience, and commit to helping others.
© Sylvia Mac
[Although] I have found ways to access the same opportunities, I had to do this by advocating for inclusivity, using adaptive strategies, and raising awareness about the challenges burn survivors and other individuals with differences and disabilities face. I’ve campaigned for inclusion and diversity for people with differences and disabilities by taking to the streets at London Fashion Week and calling for diversity on the fashion runways. I’ve also campaigned outside Victoria's Secret and the streets of London's West End. All of my campaigns went viral online and shortly afterwards things began to change. People began creating adaptive fashion and more inclusive and diverse runways for those with disabilities. I like to see myself as a body-positive OG as my campaigns go back seven years and I feel proud to be part of that change.
Personally, I enjoy drawing, painting, writing, and dancing to music which gives me a deep sense of fulfillment and joy. I love spending time outdoors, gardening, or simply a walk in the park, which can bring peace and happiness to my life. I have strong supportive relationships with my husband and family which contribute to my happiness. I’m always up for embracing new experiences and knowledge which can be a source of joy, whether through travel, reading, or attending workshops, panel discussions, inspirational speaking, volunteering, mindfulness, self-care, and manifestations. Self-care can also help with my well-being. I have a great connection with my body image, self-worth, and positive mindset that brings me real happiness.
© Sylvia Mac
Going forward, I want to continue growing my skills and knowledge in the areas I’m passionate about. I’d like to achieve my professional goals and find fulfilment in my work as a CEO and Entrepreneur. I would also like to explore new places by travelling the world, and sharing my story whilst growing my agency to support others.”
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