Ep 056: Understanding Facial Differences in Deadpool
Today’s guest is Alim Somji, the Chairperson of AboutFace, a Canadian non-profit organization that strives to eliminate the stigma and discrimination encountered by individuals with facial differences. Today’s conversation revolves around what facial differences are, the impact having a facial difference can have on mental health, and the journey that Alim took toward the acceptance of his own facial difference.
We also talk about facial differences in movies like Deadpool and how some companies have been instrumental in creating awareness around facial differences in their advertising.
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Music: Deppisch
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TAKEAWAYS
Facial differences can have a significant impact on mental health, leading to anxiety, self-doubt, and isolation.
The journey towards acceptance of a facial difference is unique for each individual and may involve denial, seeking to fix oneself, and ultimately embracing one's appearance.
Representation of facial differences in media, such as news anchors or everyday characters, can help normalize and create awareness around facial differences.
The advertising industry has made progress in featuring more realistic and diverse models, including those with facial differences.
Resources and organizations like About Face and Face Equality International provide support, education, and advocacy for individuals with facial differences.
ABOUT OUR GUEST
ALIM SOMJI: As the Executive Vice President of Jaffer Inc., Alim brings a wealth of experience with over 15 years in investment management and strategic acquisitions. Known for his creative approach to business inefficiencies, Alim champions the integration of cultural and educational diversity within teams to spark innovation and drive forward-thinking collaboration. Alim's leadership philosophy is deeply rooted in humility and continuous learning, shaping his methodology in building and strengthening, rather than starting from scratch to help carve pathways not only for Jaffer Inc.'s growth but for sustained success and meaningful progress in his communities. Alim proudly serves as the Chairperson of AboutFace, Canada's national facial difference charity, and is a Board Member of Edmonton's Food Bank.
REFERENCES
AboutFace Canada: a Canadian non-profit organization that strives to eliminate the stigma and discrimination encountered by individuals with facial differences
Face Equality International: an alliance of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), charities, and support groups which are working at national, regional or international levels to promote the campaign for ‘face equality’.
Other episodes you’ll enjoy:
Depression: A conversation with the creators of CBC Gem’s Get Up, Aisha - Episode 052
Causeway and Traumatic Brain Injury - Episode 042
Investigating Inequality Across Film and TV - Episode 041
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