56 Views
0 commentsIn South Asian societies, skin color bias has long been a deeply ingrained issue, shaping beauty standards, marriage prospects, and even career opportunities. The preference for lighter skin—reinforced by media, advertising, and cultural traditions—creates an unequal playing field, affecting self-esteem and social mobility. From childhood, many individuals are subjected to subconscious biases that equate fairness with desirability and darker skin with inferiority. This enduring prejudice is precisely what author Mallika Thoppay seeks to challenge in her work.
Mallika Thoppay is not just an author—she is an educator and a passionate social advocate working to dismantle systemic biases. A former Silicon Valley professional with a Master’s degree in Computer Science from Kansas State University, Mallika took a different path from her tech background to address pressing social issues. Through her volunteer work as an English teacher in rural Karnataka, India, she has seen firsthand how inequality and bias shape young minds. Her dedication earned her recognition as a Volunteer Champion by eVidyaloka from 2021-2023.
She serves on the board of The Colorism Project, an organization dedicated to raising awareness about color-based discrimination, and actively supports initiatives such as the 100Books Initiative, ENGin, Santa Clara County Libraries, and West Valley Community Services. But perhaps her most influential contribution to the fight against colorism is her book, Unfair & Lovely.
In Unfair & Lovely, Mallika explores the subtle and overt ways in which colorism manifests in society, particularly among South Asian communities. The book advocates for change, urging readers to challenge ingrained biases and foster a more inclusive mindset. Through her storytelling, she hopes to inspire both children and adults to rethink societal norms that equate worth with complexion.
Beyond her literary and advocacy efforts, Mallika also founded TechSmart Academy, a coding camps business for children.. Her ability to bridge technology with social impact makes her a unique voice in both fields.
Her latest work, a picture book created with illustrator Kavitha Amarnath, brings forth the conversation on fairness and resilience to younger audiences. The story follows Sahana, a young girl who faces discrimination at school and must find the strength to rise above it. Written for children aged 8 and up, the book is an essential tool for parents and educators looking to instill empathy and awareness in young readers.
Mallika Thoppay’s work is a call to action, encouraging society to confront and break free from subconscious color biases. Her books and advocacy continue to push for a more equitable world—one where children grow up knowing their worth is not defined by the color of their skin.
You can purchase Unfair & Lovely here: https://tinyurl.com/unfairlovely
Comments