Al-Qalam 
By Al-Qalam Reporter
A South African beauty influencer has taken a firm stance against Israel and is calling on others with social media influence to do the same.
Zithobe Macheli took to Instagram to highlight how she recently turned down two brand deals worth R50 000 because she stands with the people of Palestine. Her move has been praised by many South Africans after she boldly stood up against the brands that are funding the ongoing genocide.
In a viral Instagram post, Macheli, who has more than 27000 followers said: “We are currently witnessing a genocide, and these are innocent people who are being wiped off the surface of the earth in the most gruesome and painful way. Recently, a list of beauty brands that are associated with Israel and are using their profits to fund the genocide have been outed and on this list are a lot of brands that I love, brands that I’ve worked with in the past, and brands that I’m currently in negotiation with,” said Macheli.
She said that she wanted people to know that her past association with these brands is not a reflection of her dignity and integrity as a human.
“The reason why I turned down these brand deals worth R50 000 is because firstly, I do not condone the killing of innocent people. Secondly, as someone who works in the beauty space and someone who is trusted, I understand the influence that I have when it comes to eliciting interest in people and affecting their buying habits and decision-making as consumers,” said Macheli.
She sent out a message to all those who have some influence in society, saying: “Please let’s continue to stand with the people of Palestine and if you do have a platform, use it to be on the right side of history.” She then shared a list of the beauty brands that people should boycott.
