The Faces Behind The Figures

A Brave New Body Image Conversation

Eight years ago, The Just Saying Project (JSP) asked women across our region how they really felt about their bodies. The responses weren’t filtered, photoshopped, or polished. They were raw. They were brave. And they were unforgettable.

Now, in 2025, JSP is asking again.

With a new body image survey titled The Faces Behind the Figures, JSP is inviting women to reflect on the stories they carry in their skin, their scars, and their silence. The questionnaire explores themes such as self-esteem, beauty standards, mental health, and media influence — forming the foundation for a new social media campaign of the same name.

JSP Founder Fallon Drewett said the survey aimed to go deeper than surface-level body positivity.

“It’s about taking the conversation deeper—past the mirror and into the layers of identity, worth and culture,” she said.

“It’s been eight years since our Fabulous Faces and Figures exhibitions first challenged the way we see ourselves and each other. So much has changed — or has it? This survey helps us find out.”

The campaign will roll out across Facebook and Instagram, combining real statistics from JSP’s earlier survey with heartfelt reflections and a call for honest, brave truth-telling.

Some of the 2017/18 findings included:

84 per cent of women said they felt pressure to look a certain way

60 per cent reported the media negatively affected how they viewed their bodies

More than half had never told themselves they were beautiful

The 2025 survey revisits these themes, while expanding to include:

Thoughts on cosmetic procedures and aging

Body neutrality and self-worth

The impact of social media and comparison

Confidence in daily routines and relationships

Reflections on beauty in all its diversity

“This isn’t just a data collection exercise,” Ms Drewett said.

“This is about shaping future conversations, exhibitions, events — and most importantly — understanding how women are really feeling, right now.”

All participants who complete the survey will go into the draw to win a JSP Prize Pack, which includes a double pass to a 2026 JSP event, a Just Because photoshoot, and the chance to have their insights shape future storytelling initiatives.

“It’s time we remembered that our stories are powerful tools for change,” Ms Drewett said.

“If we want future generations to grow up in a world where bodies aren’t judged but celebrated — we need to be brave enough to speak first.”

To complete the survey, visit: https://uivz0moeyzi.typeform.com/to/kXfuCjX2
Survey closes 31 July.

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