Emily-Anne Rigal is a teen making a difference. Her own experiences of being bullied led her to create a campaign, We Stop Hate, which is making a huge difference to teens. Lady Ga Ga even gave it her endorsement on MTV last month! Chatterchick Gwen sits down for a chat with this young woman making change in the world

BB: What do you think defines beauty?

Emily-Anne: For me, beauty is defined by our character – it is the people who serve themselves and others with only the best of intentions that I consider beautiful. I believe that when we live authentically and stay true to ourselves and our core beliefs and values, we develop a sense of inner confidence that makes us beautiful. 

BB: An issue affecting a lot of teenage girls and something Bellaboo is particularly passionate about is self esteem. Do you think self esteem can help teens avoid and ignore bullying?

Emily-Anne: I one-hundred-million-trillion-gazillion percent believe that having high self-esteem is the solution to bullying because the teens who are happy with themselves are not going to put others down. 

BB: What advice would you want to share with girls your age? 

Emily-Anne: Spend your life with people who make you happy, not who you have to impress. In doing so, you will realize that people who put you down or make you feel bad are not important. You only live once and the most important thing is for you to be happy. So, be true to who you are and make it a habit not to be critical about small things.

BB: What inspired you to begin an organization and YouTube Channel called "We Stop Hate"?

Growing up, my classmates labeled me as the “fat” girl and they would say awful, hurtful things to me and behind my back. The bullying I endured got so bad that I eventually switched schools. And gradually, as I made new, real friends, my self-confidence increased. The more I accepted myself, the happier I became.

Overcoming my personal struggle with bullying inspired me to create a non-profit program called WeStopHate.org, which gives teens a platform to share their stories through online videos because once you’ve heard someone’s story, there isn’t anyone you can’t love.

BB: At your age, how does it feel...knowing that you're helping many teens out there accept who they are and disregard anything negative things people may say?

Emily-Anne: It is a true honor to know that there are people who feel inspired by my work. I am grateful for the people who leave me comments, tweets, and YouTube messages expressing their thanks or admiration. They constantly make my day and fill my heart with love.

BB: Have you ever tried any Bellaboo products?

Emily-Anne: Yes, I am a Bellaboobabe! I received your facial wash at the AllyKatzz Tween Summit last Fall and use it religiously every morning in the shower! 

MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL VIDEO

WESTOPHATE YOUTUBE CHANNEL VIDEO