Nigerian singer Waje has publicly detailed her past struggles with body image insecurity, revealing she once wore multiple bras simultaneously to alter her appearance. The 44-year-old vocalist, born Aituaje Vivian Ebele Irobe, shared her experience during a recent episode of the Her Next Chapter podcast, hosted by Tope Olowoniyan.
Waje explained that from a young age, she felt uncomfortable with her bust size, describing herself as “heavy at the top.” In her twenties, this discomfort led her to wear three bras at once as a method of concealment. “I used to be very uncomfortable about how heavy I was at the top,” she stated, noting the practice occurred even before she became a mother.
The artist attributed her gradual shift toward self-acceptance to two primary factors: the natural process of aging and the transformative experience of motherhood. She indicated that becoming a mother fundamentally changed her perspective on her physical self, helping her appreciate her body’s functionality and strength over its appearance.
Waje also credited her personal support system with bolstering her confidence. She specifically mentioned rapper M.I and professional dancer Kaffy as key figures who provided encouragement and helped her develop resilience against negative public commentary. Their support, she suggested, contributed to her ability to cultivate a “thick skin.”
This reflection from a prominent entertainment figure highlights the ongoing personal challenges related to body image, even among public figures. Her narrative underscores a journey from concealment to confidence, influenced by life stages and supportive relationships. By sharing this aspect of her history, Waje contributes to broader conversations about self-perception and mental well-being, particularly for women in the spotlight. Her story serves as a case study in overcoming long-held insecurities through time, pivotal life events, and positive social reinforcement.
