Golden Onome Peter’s life is a story of resilience, courage, and truth in the face of myths and misconceptions that continue to surround albinism in African societies.
From childhood, she experienced the painful weight of stereotypes. Many people in her community believed persons with albinism were linked to the spiritual world, that they could be used for rituals, sacrifices, or were “children of the gods.” Harmful superstitions spread the idea that their bodies carry powers, leaving many to live in constant fear of attack. Other myths declared that people with albinism should not eat certain foods such as salt, pepper, ginger, or crayfish, claiming they would damage the skin or cause blindness. Some went as far as suggesting that persons with albinism smell or that the condition is contagious. These misconceptions created isolation, stigma, and daily battles for acceptance.
Golden Onome also endured name-calling. Schoolmates mocked her with words like “Oyibo,” “yellow pawpaw,” or simply “yellow.” Each insult cut deep, but it also pushed her to develop resilience and determination to define herself on her own terms. In the classroom, her poor vision made learning even harder. She often had to move close to the board to see, only to be scolded for blocking others. She wished she could take photos of notes on her phone to copy them later, but that was not allowed. Instead, she relied on classmates’ notes and the kindness of a few teachers. Her mother was her strongest advocate, visiting schools to explain her daughter’s vision needs and ensuring she had support. From the age of five, medicated glasses became her lifeline.
Like many with albinism, Golden Onome faced the harsh reality of sun exposure. Without melanin to protect her skin and eyes, every trip outdoors carried risks. While others underestimated this, she learned the value of sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, umbrellas, sunglasses, and protective clothing. Sadly, many persons with albinism in Nigeria are not so fortunate. Lack of access to proper skin care has led to alarming rates of preventable skin cancer. Others, pressured by society’s beauty standards, use dangerous bleaching products, chemical soaps, or harsh dyes that harm their skin and health.
Yet her story is not defined only by struggles. Golden Onome Peter has built a career as a digital marketer and content creator, using her platform to educate, inspire, and break stereotypes. She shares content about her profession while also raising awareness about albinism, debunking harmful myths, and celebrating achievements. Her visibility online is a powerful statement: that people with albinism live, work, laugh, succeed, and contribute meaningfully to society.
She does not shy away from addressing ignorance. When faced with bullying or hurtful comments, she responds with knowledge and confidence. She encourages others with albinism, especially young women and girls, to be confident in their skin, protect themselves with the right care, and use safe dermatologist-approved products instead of harsh chemicals. She reminds them not to neglect medicated lenses, as vision support is vital for full participation in school and work.
To parents, teachers, and community leaders, she offers practical guidance: write clearly on the board, allow note-taking with phones where possible, provide shade during outdoor activities, and support access to sunscreen and protective clothing. These small steps can transform the educational experience of children with albinism.
Golden Onome’s voice carries a message for society as a whole: stop treating albinism as a spiritual problem or a commodity. Persons with albinism are human beings who deserve dignity, safety, education, and health care. Her life is a testament to resilience and possibility. She chooses to live proudly and openly, inviting the world to listen, learn, and stand in solidarity with the albinism community.
