We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Rozella Mahjhrin . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Rozella below.

Rozella, appreciate you joining us today. Over the course of your career, have you seen or experienced your industry completely flip-flop or change course on something?

When I started True Complexion (TC) in 2015, it was a passion project inspired by Humans of New York, aimed at telling the stories of individuals living with different medical conditions, disabilities, and differences. My goal was to create a space for this community to reclaim their narrative, as they often face myths, misunderstandings, and discrimination from those without firsthand experience.

Back then, my focus was solely on storytelling and organizing community events. However, as TC grew, I noticed a significant shift in the industry. There was a growing recognition of the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in marketing and advertising. Brands were increasingly seeking to create more inclusive campaigns but lacked the knowledge and connections to do so effectively. This realization led me to expand TC’s services to include consultancy, helping brands navigate this new landscape.

Around the same time, I also saw a surge in demand for speaking engagements on topics like body image and self-acceptance. This marked another industry shift towards greater openness and dialogue about these issues. Over the years, my focus has shifted towards DEI training for corporate companies, reflecting the broader industry trend towards integrating DEI into organizational cultures. Recently, I consulted for a sustainable green festival, helping to plan an agenda that integrates sustainability and DEI, highlighting the intersectionality of these important issues.

The industry’s transformation has been profound. The increasing emphasis on DEI and the recognition of its value in various sectors represent a dramatic change from the past. Opportunities to experiment and evolve are always present, and having the courage to try new things, even when feeling inexperienced, is crucial. Learning happens in the process, and you only get better with each step.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My journey into this field is deeply personal, shaped by my experiences growing up with Sturge-Weber Syndrome, a condition characterized by a port-wine stain birthmark on my face. I started True Complexion to normalize and humanize individuals like myself who live with medical conditions, visible differences, and disabilities. My goal was to create a community where people like me could connect, share their stories, and reclaim their narratives.

Through countless interviews, I discovered that one of the biggest challenges for our community is employment. Many organizations view individuals with differences and disabilities as liabilities rather than assets, overlooking the value we bring. At the same time, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) were becoming increasingly important for brands. There was a growing demand for campaigns featuring real, everyday people from diverse backgrounds, but many companies struggled to navigate this and faced backlash.

Recognizing this gap, I saw an opportunity to help brands create more inclusive marketing and advertising campaigns. This not only benefited the companies but also opened doors for individuals in our community to be seen, valued, and find employment. Since then, TC has evolved to offer additional services for clients and continued support for the community.

What sets us apart is our deep connection to the community and our dedication to authentic representation. Our work is driven by a passion for change and a commitment to celebrating differences, disabilities, and fostering equity to create a more just world.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

One of the most impactful resources for my management and entrepreneurial philosophy is Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara. This book has profoundly influenced how I approach client relationships and community engagement.

Guidara’s book emphasizes going beyond expectations by genuinely understanding and anticipating people’s needs. It’s not just about delivering a service but creating memorable experiences through empathy and kindness. The key is to truly listen to what people want, uncover their deeper needs, and collaborate to exceed those expectations.

Applying these principles, I focus on making every client interaction and community engagement a partnership. By actively listening and going beyond the obvious, we create solutions that not only meet but exceed expectations, leading to more impactful and fulfilling collaborations.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

I believe my reputation within the market is built on genuine connection and authenticity. People can often sense when someone is being sincere versus just putting on a facade, and for me, DEI is more than just a professional principle—it’s a core part of who I am.

When I work with clients, I don’t just aim to meet their goals; I’m driven by a desire to make a positive impact. This involves thoughtful choices, like hiring designers with disabilities, choosing catering from social enterprises that support individuals on the autism spectrum or refugees, and incorporating these values into every aspect of our work. Each detail matters and reflects our true commitment to DEI.

I approach every project not from a position of authority, but as a partner who genuinely seeks to understand and address human challenges. This approach to collaboration and problem-solving resonates with clients and the community alike, helping to build trust and a strong reputation for True Complexion.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rozellamarie/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rozellamarie/

Image Credits

1. Close-up of Rozella with fern leaf – Photo by Melissa Toh
2. Rozella smiling with artist Aveena Devi – Photo by Melissa Toh
3. Rozella with Morquio Syndrome advocate Rachel Siew and photographer Melissa Toh – Photo by Melissa Toh
4. Group photo of Rozella with the True Complexion community – Photo by Melissa Toh
5. Rozella with volunteer and community leader Marianne Liaw – Photo by Annice Lynn
6. Batik series group photo – Photo by Daniel Adams
7. Pink exhibition series group photo – Photo by Daniel Adams
8. Rozella in the IT Cosmetics campaign for Sephora – Photo by Ken Chua
9. Rozella speaking at TEDx Youth KL – Photo by Brandon Lee