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upworthy

covergirl

Oct. 11, 2016, was a life-changing day for YouTuber, famed Instagrammer, and makeup artist James Charles.

The 17-year-old announced he was the newest face for iconic beauty brand CoverGirl.

It was the first time ever that a boy landed the role of brand ambassador for the brand.

The big moment wasn't wasted on Charles, who wrote on Instagram that he was "so beyond excited and overwhelmed and happy and astonished and of course, SHOOK" over the huge news.

"I truly hope that this shows that anyone and everyone can wear makeup and can do anything if you work hard."

"Hey, if a random 17-year-old guy can [wear makeup], you DEFINITELY can too!” he said.


Charles understands his CoverGirl title is a big win for anyone out there who feels like they can't express themselves because of societal expectations.

“Breaking gender norms just comes instantly as soon as a boy is comfortable and confident enough to put on makeup," he told BuzzFeed.

Fans and supporters couldn't have been more excited to hear Charles' life-changing news.

Because, hey — 2016 could use a little uplifting news right about now.

Folks were elated over what this may mean for countless other boys out there.

Some couldn't keep the smiles off their faces.

And others noted the moment was a win for all of humanity.

This isn't just awesome news for Charles. His CoverGirl gig is the latest crumbling of that age-old gender barrier that harms all of us.

From kids' toys and clothing brands to martial arts clubs and dads with painted fingernails, oppressive gender norms are dying out. Because we've come a long way in understanding gender isn't a binary concept.

This news might put some people a bit on edge (and if "some people" includes you — that's OK to admit!). Evolving cultural ideas and expectations can be scary and uncomfortable at first.

But it's important to understand that it's harmful to tell our kids that boys don't cry (or wear makeup, for that matter). And it hinders our girls when we subtly sway them from pursuing careers in math or science. The more we get the dangers of gender norms — and the importance of just being yourself — the better off we'll be.

Take it from Charles:

"I think it’s so important to love who you are and be comfortable in your own skin."