Must Watch Documentary: Invisible Beauty: Lessons from a Life of Purpose
Yesterday, I found myself seated in a dimly lit theater, enveloped by the immersive storytelling of Invisible Beauty, a compelling documentary that sheds light on the extraordinary life of Bethann Hardison. For over 50 years, Bethann has been the unwavering voice of Black representation in the fashion industry—a true pioneer whose impact echoes through generations.
At that age, she chose to let go of her father’s approval and embraced her own happiness, stepping into a modeling career in New York City.
Bethann Hardison, born on September 30, 1942, is a Libra with a life path number of 3, and at 82 years old, she reflects on her journey as a model, agent, and activist. Raised by a strict Muslim father who instilled a sense of duty and moral rigidity, her first life-defining moment came at 18. At that age, she chose to let go of her father’s approval and embraced her own happiness, stepping into a modeling career in New York City. That bold decision set the tone for a life characterized by unrelenting determination and a deep desire to bring balance and justice to others.
As a true Libra, Bethann possesses an innate sense of fairness, paired with the ability to be direct and fiercely goal-oriented. But her life’s purpose went far beyond the glamour of representing top models like Naomi Campbell, Iman, and Tyson Beckford. Her mission was to bring real change—to ensure that Black models were paid fairly and offered the same opportunities as their white counterparts. Even when the fashion world deemed one Black model “enough,” Bethann received urgent calls to return, as the industry became a hostile and unequal place once again.
It wasn’t a choice; it was a calling, one that often made her relationships, including the one with her son Kadeem Hardison, complicated.
Bethann never saw her advocacy as ambition. For her, it was about fighting an injustice she could not ignore. It wasn’t a choice; it was a calling, one that often made her relationships, including the one with her son Kadeem Hardison, complicated. She was, and still is, unapologetically tough, never sugarcoating, and always believing there is room for improvement. Watching her on screen, I saw a reflection of myself in that mindset—this drive to see progress as a way of living.
“I don’t have ambitions or dreams; I have objectives. Isn’t life filled with objectives?”
Near the end of the documentary, she uttered words that struck me deeply: “I don’t have ambitions or dreams; I have objectives. Isn’t life filled with objectives?” Because a dream without a plan is just a wish. That wisdom resonated with me on so many levels. It reminded me of the power of being authentic, following one’s intuition, and embracing a purpose-driven life.
From a numerological standpoint, her birthday on the 30th holds great meaning. The number 3 emphasizes connection and uniting people, while the 0 speaks to divine influence—God’s assignment. The 9, reflecting selflessness, highlights that her mission has always been about others. It’s no wonder that her life path number 3 encapsulates a journey rooted in uplifting and empowering those around her. Sometimes, our path is about service, whether we embrace it or not.
What inspired me most was seeing Bethann, even at 80, still so vibrant, relevant, and highly respected. She continues to consult with major fashion houses on diversity policies and remains a formidable force. Her story taught me that as long as we are driven by purpose, we can continue to evolve and make an impact—no matter our age.
Bethann Hardison was never a victim. Her mission was clear: to educate those who needed it most. “They need to learn,” she said. “I already have my color.” Her story isn’t just about the fashion world; it’s a testament to living authentically, standing firm in your values, and using your voice to create change. Her life is a reminder to all of us: improvement isn’t just an act; it’s a way of being.
Love, Mara
