In a world where filters, retouches, and beauty standards dominate our screens, choosing to show up as your most authentic self is nothing short of revolutionary.
For actress and Vaseline Brand Ambassador Linda Mtoba, the journey of embracing her natural beauty, flaws and all, has become a deeply personal statement of confidence, resilience, and truth.
“I don’t always use filters in my stories,” she says. “And the reason for that is simple: as much as I can put on a filter, it doesn’t help me accept myself as I truly am.”
Mtoba, speaking at the launch of the Vaseline Cera-Glow range, during a panel discussion led by host, TV and radio presenter Zola Mhlongo.
The former “The River” actress’s sentiment resonates with many. The pressure to present a picture-perfect version of ourselves—especially online—can feel overwhelming. But Mtoba’s is clear: perfection isn’t real, and chasing it only creates distance from who we truly are.
“Everyone has bad days,” she admits. “Sometimes your skin is breaking out, your hair isn’t sitting right—and that’s okay. We’re not mannequins. We’re human. When I take care of my skin, I don’t want to feel like I need a shield or a mask every time I step out or go online.”
The idea of minimizing filter use isn’t about shaming those who choose to use them, but rather about reclaiming authenticity in a world that often hides behind digital polish.
“When you see me, I want you to see me,” she says. “Online, filters can become a kind of armour, a way to protect ourselves from judgment. But at what cost?”
Mtoba reflects on how social media can amplify scrutiny—turning an audience of 500 into 500,000. And yet, the courage to be seen, truly seen, is what breaks through the noise. “It’s so important for us to be authentic, not just for ourselves, but for the people we’re sharing our lives and content with.”
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Her message touches something deeper: the emotional and psychological weight of trying to live up to impossible standards. “We’ve started to treat normal as if it’s not good enough. Things like stretch marks, skin texture, or a bad hair day—these are the realities of being human. But somehow, they’ve become the very things we’re made to feel ashamed of.”
She recalls her own experience with stretch marks after giving birth, how comments and unsolicited judgments tried to diminish something so natural. “It was painful. But it also made me want to shift the conversation. These marks tell stories. They show growth, life, change.”
At the heart of Mtoba reflection is the power to reclaim beauty on your terms. “Perfection isn’t the goal. Presence is, confidence is, and being able to look in the mirror and say, ‘This is me, and I’m okay with that.’ That’s everything.”
Mtoba shared also a powerful reminder that we all need to hear more often: “Our skin carries our stories, our stress, our joy. It binds us to ourselves. Let’s treat it, and each other, with kindness.”
As someone who is followed by two million people on Instagram, and over 700,000 on Instagram, Mtoba is careful about how she represents herself and loves to be honest with her followers. She enjoys sharing her beauty secrets with them, such as the reason behind her glowing skin being the Vaseline Cera-Glow range.
The launch event in Johannesburg brought together tastemakers from across the country—including, media personality Lasizwe Dambuza, renowned designer Rich Mnisi, and expert voices such as dermatologist Dr Nomzamo Mkhize, who all celebrated their skin.
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