Zhelia expanded her advocacy by hosting workshops in Paris and Nice, where women gather to discuss aging, societal pressures, and self-expression. Her latest project, La Beauté Naturelle ("Natural Beauty"), partners with dermatologists and mental health professionals to provide affordable, holistic wellness plans for women over 40. The journey hasn’t been without obstacles. Early on, Zhelia faced criticism for her unapologetic appearance, with some calling her look "unflattering" or "unattractive." Yet, she turned the negativity into fuel. "Criticism is just someone else’s insecurity," she says. "I’ve learned to filter out the noise and focus on the women who feel seen because of me."
Her resilience caught the attention of institutions. In 2023, she was invited to speak at a European conference on age representation in art, where she unveiled a provocative series of paintings titled The Unshaven Truth , blending her activism with her art. Today, Zhelia Karima is a symbol of courage for women redefining their relationship with aging. Her story challenges industries and cultural norms that profit from invisibility and insecurity. Through art, storytelling, and community building, she proves that beauty is not confined to youth or convention—it’s in the stories we live and the authenticity we dare to show. Mature - Hairy French lady Zhelia Karima gets a...
In a world often fixated on idealized beauty standards, 54-year-old French artist and activist Zhelia Karima has become a beacon of self-acceptance and authenticity. Her journey of embracing her natural appearance—often deemed unconventional by societal norms—has not only transformed her own life but also inspired countless individuals to celebrate their uniqueness. Born in Marseille to a Moroccan-French family, Zhelia grew up in a multicultural environment that nurtured her creativity. By her 30s, she had established a reputable career as a painter, known for her bold, surrealist works that explore themes of identity, heritage, and the human experience. However, her personal life during her 40s became a backdrop for a quiet struggle: societal pressures around aging and physical appearance. Zhelia expanded her advocacy by hosting workshops in