Hi, My name is Roshaan Narkedayy. I am a IT Professional, Creator, Investor working in Pune, India. My Vitiligo story starts when I first noticed a very tiny but persistent white patch appearing on my neck after I cut my long Dhoni Style hairs. 

At first, I didn’t know what to make of it. But as the patches began to spread, I realized that I had vitiligo, a condition that causes loss of skin pigmentation.

In the next few months, I felt self-conscious around classmates & people, whether on the bus, at college functions, or while shopping malls. However, I quickly realized that my father already had the same condition for 90% of the body, and that the appearance of the white patches was not as noticeable till my young age as I had feared. 

As a young living with vitiligo, I faced a lot of discrimination and misunderstanding. People would stare at me or make rude comments, as if my skin condition made me less of a person. It was a difficult time, and I often felt ashamed of my appearance.

I often refer to myself as “Proudly Spotted,” and I view this condition as a blessing rather than curse. I came to understand that my differences were something to be celebrated, not hidden.

I learned to love myself for who I was, and to stand up against discrimination and prejudice. It has helped me see things from a new perspective and focus on things that actually matter. It has also helped me filter out shallow people who only bring me down and appreciate the beauty of diversity.

But over time,. I wanted to spread positivity and appreciation among the vitiligo community, so I started to connect with others who had the condition, both online and offline. Through social media platforms, I inspired others to embrace their own differences and feel confident in their skin. I also collaborated with other creators in the vitiligo community to spread awareness and positivity.

While I appreciated the concern and support from others over the time, I also faced questions and unwanted attention about my condition in public places. Many people asked me about the various treatments available for vitiligo, not realizing the sensitivity of the topic. It was important for me to challenge misconceptions and educate others about vitiligo treatment, while also respecting boundaries and the sensitivity of the topic.

 My newfound confidence didn’t come overnight, Unfortunately, my journey wasn’t always easy. Despite my newfound confidence and self-love, I still faced discrimination and offensive comments from some people regarding relationships, marriage.

In particular, when I started to look for a job after finishing college, I faced discrimination from potential employers.
Some interviewers would make distasteful comments about my skin condition, questioning my ability to perform the job. I found it frustrating and disheartening that some people couldn’t look past my appearance and see the capable person I was.

But I didn’t let these experiences hold me back. I knew that I deserved respect and equal treatment, and I continued to apply for jobs and pursue my dreams. 

Eventually, I landed a few jobs at a company that valued diversity and inclusivity. Also found a life partner that she wants me in her life despite all these situations. I felt welcomed and appreciated for my skills and abilities, rather than judged for my appearance.

“Embrace your differences, seek support, express yourself creatively, and never let vitiligo hold you back from pursuing your dreams.”
– Roshaan Narkedayy