What started as a wave of online criticism has turned into one of the most uplifting stories in Liberia this year. Tracy M. Smith, a young woman from Margibi, went from being mocked for her facial appearance and strong jawline to receiving an outpouring of love, support, and life-changing opportunities.
It all began during the Miss Margibi Beauty Pageant, where Tracy, an entertainment lover, was photographed by a local photographer. What she thought was just another picture ended up going viral, attracting both harsh bullying and cruel comments from social media users. The ridicule forced Tracy to go silent for two days, stepping away from social platforms.
But as the negativity spread, something unexpected happened, support began to pour in from influential Liberians, celebrities, and brands who saw not flaws, but beauty and resilience in Tracy.
Within just days, a pile of blessings fell into her lap:
1. Heritage Cotton, a luxury clothing brand owned by influencer and humanitarian Josephine Kolubah a.k.a. Coffee With Jojo, signed Tracy to a six-month modeling contract as both a photo and video model.
2. Legendary actor and producer Frank Artus personally reached out, offering her a role in his upcoming film project.
3. Popular comedians Keyshia and Lorpu Kolu invited Tracy to join them in comedy skits.
4. Another invite came from Mama Liberia, who wants Tracy to feature in her acting scenes.
5. Entertainment promoter Double H gave Tracy a one-year free pass to his karaoke nights, allowing her to attend with three friends anytime, an opportunity to network and connect.
6. A Liberian makeup business extended an offer for Tracy to serve as their Brand Ambassador.
Liberian Girl Beauty Lounge crowned her one of their divas and offered her free services throughout September, including braiding, lash extensions, makeup, pedicure, and manicure.
Each of these gestures came with strong messages against cyberbullying, turning Tracy into a symbol of hope for many who face similar struggles online.
Yet her story has also sparked debate. While many are celebrating Tracy’s blessings, young Liberian girl Patricia Weedor Kollie voiced frustration that opportunities only seem to come when someone is publicly shamed.
“In Liberia, it’s like you have to get dragged, act crazy, or be on drugs before people notice you. We have graduates sitting at home with no jobs, yet the moment someone trends online for the wrong reasons, opportunities appear. Y’all need to start supporting consistency and real talented people, not just drama.”
Her words raise a bigger conversation about Liberia’s culture of support, are opportunities truly about recognizing talent, or are they a reaction to viral drama?
For Tracy, however, one thing is certain: what was meant to break her has only built her stronger. The very people who mocked her are now watching her rise into modeling, film, comedy, and brand ambassadorship.
As some say, “Grace spoke for her.”
From one viral photo to a future full of opportunities, Tracy’s journey is a reminder that beauty is not defined by cruel comments, but by resilience, confidence, and the doors that open when least expected.
