SPOTLIGHT: April Watson @thebodzilla
We absolutely love April (she/her) so we asked you babes what you wanted to know most from her. A bit of background, especially for those that haven’t fallen head over heels just yet, April @thebodzilla, is an Australian body love activist and model. She was the first plus size model on a billboard in Australia and she’s not done making iconic moves yet! With a shared passion for self love, positivity, and body acceptance, we knew you babes would love her as much as we do - so let’s get into what you were dying to know!
How did it feel seeing yourself on a billboard?!
“Honestly, it was BREATHTAKING. I call the billboard 'her' - because it felt like she was something much bigger (like, 6 storeys) than just me. When I saw her I was speechless and so damn proud.”
Being a model is something that is dreamed of by many so of course, you babes had to know the inside scoop!
What is one of the coolest experiences you’ve had since becoming a model?
“Gosh, so many! I would have to say aside from the billboard, the experience of my first big shoot with other models and professional MUAs was amazing. It felt like the exact right place for me to be.”
This is maybe one of the top questions you babes asked, we have all been there needing a positive voice and some tips and April has delivered!
For someone that may be struggling with body positivity, what are some things you recommend?
“Swap the mean thing you're about to say about yourself to something nice. Instead of criticising your body, try saying 'I did a really good job on my makeup today' or 'my hair is so shiny at the moment!' If for whatever reason you can't do that, try saying something like 'I appreciate the way my legs can take me from my home to wherever I need to go' - this is a nice way of neutralising your body in relation to beauty standards.”
What is the best thing about spreading body positivity in Australia?
“That [Australia] is in DIRE need of a revamp of how it views marginalised communities, and #BoPo is just one component of that. Body positivity is a key part of intersectional feminism, and when you learn to accept yourself you learn to accept others - their views, their experiences, and their value. Widespread amplification of oppressed voices starts with letting people speak and believing them, and that includes yourself.”
When did you notice what you posted had an impact on followers?
“Depending on what it is, at different times - but when I was asked by Clementine Ford to appear on her podcast that was a sign my message was getting out there!”
We are completely in love with April and we are sure you are too after this! If you’re in need of some positive vibes (and let’s be honest who isn’t?!) give April some love at @thebodzilla.
