My body, my story
What do our bodies say about us?
What words do we choose to describe them?
How would we talk to them, if possible?
Through this new series of portraits, NOO celebrates the plurality, resilience, beauty and strength of our bodies.
Sincere and profound conversations, to question the relationship we have with them, the way we look at them, the weight of norms and the quest for an often tumultuous love.
In the privacy of her Marseille home, we met Maryam Kaba, a former gymnast, dancer, choreographer, and founder of Afrovibe, who spoke to us about movement therapy and the importance of teaming up with your body, no matter the cost.
The photographs are signed Sabrina Hadj-Hacène .
Who are you, Maryam?
Former high-level rhythmic gymnast, dancer, choreographer and founder of Afrovibe - a fitness dance concept inspired by African and Afro-descendant dances based on joy, sharing, letting go and self-love - I am above all a lover of life.
What is your relationship with your body today?
Today, she's my BFF. I listen to her every day. I listen to my gut, my instincts. She's truly my guide.
Can you tell us about the moment when your relationship with your body changed?
I would say it was when I arrived in Brazil in 2013. The beauty codes are not the same there, and at that time I was 10 kg heavier than today. I understood then that my body and my Negroid shapes - especially my buttocks - were not different from the rest of the population, which is 54% Black there. I began to love it and to free myself from my inhibitions, whereas I had constantly hidden my buttocks throughout my adolescence.
Your body has been through a lot of trauma and suffering. How did you find a way to make peace with it?
It was a roller coaster… I realized that my body was bothering me very early, at 8 years old to be precise. During a tennis camp, I was queuing at the refreshment bar to buy a Nuts, with a friend. We were both in swimsuits, and the club owner allowed himself to say to me: “Go cover yourself up, we don’t walk around like that, especially when we’re black like you.”
Despite the trauma, I quickly understood that the problem came from others and that I would have to team up with my body, whatever the cost, on this thorny path.
Healing through the body, movement, and dance—you've made this an aspect of your work today. What does dance therapy involve?
I often say that I'm not a therapist. However, my concept of Afrovibe, dance, and free movement, truly allows you to let go, accept yourself, and experience a form of freedom—first in movement, then in thought. Ultimately, these are paths to reconnecting with yourself and finding balance. My mantra? To dance is to live.
What has been the biggest surprise your body has given you in recent years?
In 2024, during my residency with the Ballet National de Marseille, I created a solo entitled "Entre mes jambes." In it, I talk about my body and its journey, from a sexual assault I suffered at age 6 to today. More generally, I question the relationship that society has with children's bodies. It's a very intense performance, both physically and emotionally. I didn't think I would be capable of going on stage at 47 and being carried like that by my body.
If you could talk to your body, what would you like to say to it?
I love you, leave yourself alone, don't worry, it'll be okay.
When do you feel best in your body?
When I dance. It can be anywhere, as long as I can dance, preferably in light, loose-fitting clothes.
What role does your clothing style play in your relationship with your body? Do certain clothes help you accept it better?
The truth is that when I felt bad about my body, nothing helped. The problem was in my head, so even with the most beautiful outfit, I still felt bad about my body. On the other hand, it was rather by starting to accept my body that I was able to dare more, in terms of style. Today, I don't follow any rules. No matter the circumstances or the occasion, I wear what I like. The important thing is that I find myself beautiful and feel good.
Your go-to outfit for days when you feel less in tune with your body? The one that comforts you and gives you back your confidence?
On days like this, I prefer a loose, lightweight outfit, like wide-legged pants with a shirt and bodysuit underneath. This way, I give my body some freedom to be. It's an outfit that allows me to move easily, including doing some gentle yoga stretches—something I often do when I'm not feeling great.
How do you feel when you wear a NOO bodysuit?
I feel completely myself. Sexy, bossy, sporty, authentic, determined... but also comfortable and unfussy. As much at home in the body as in my own skin!
Your favorite bodysuit from the new collection?
The High Black , I love its sexy side with its large side cutouts and a little sporty with the high neck. I have quite square shoulders and I like to highlight them, so this shape is ideal for me. It's a versatile and chic model, which I can wear as much to give a yoga class as to go to an evening.
