For decades, society has been captivated by a unique and often unattainable definition of beauty perpetuated by glossy magazines and runways.
But have you ever stopped to think how many incredible stories are buried beneath these polished images? Behind the curtain of the modeling industry lies a harsh truth: countless individuals with unique characteristics and extraordinary paths have been overlooked because they don’t fit the mold.
But that narrative is starting to change thanks to bold pioneers like Xueli Abbing, who are rewriting the rules and redefining beauty on their own terms.
Xueli was abandoned in front of the orphanage…
For decades, the modeling industry has pushed unrealistic standards of beauty. However, there has been a significant shift in recent years with increased efforts to challenge and eliminate these stereotypes. Among these inspiring stories is that of Xueli Abbing, an albino model whose unique beauty was celebrated by Vogue.
Xueli’s Early Life: Abandoned at birth
Born with albinism, a condition characterized by a lack of pigment that results in extremely pale skin and sensitivity to sunlight, Xueli faced challenges from the start. In many parts of the world, superstitions about albinism pose serious risks to those affected. Because of these misconceptions, Xueli was abandoned as a child outside an orphanage in China.
Her name, given by the orphanage staff, reflects her appearance and heritage. They called her Xue Li, which means “beautiful snow”, inspired by her pale skin and white hair. Since her biological parents did not leave any information, Xueli does not even know the exact date of birth. She was adopted by a Dutch family at the age of three, and her adoptive mother adopted her name as a connection to her appearance and Chinese roots.
A modeling journey that started unintentionally
At the age of 11, Xuelia’s journey into modeling began when she was approached by a designer who created a campaign called Perfect Imperfections to celebrate diversity and inclusion. This opportunity introduced Xueli to the world of modeling, which led to various photo shoots, including a feature in the June 2019 issue of Vogue Italia. At first, Xueli did not fully understand the significance of being featured in such a prestigious magazine.
He takes his challenges as strengths.
Due to albinism, Xueli’s vision is impaired because melanin plays a vital role in the development of cells in the back of the eye. Despite this, she chose to see her condition as a strength. “Maybe because I can’t see everything clearly, I focus more on people’s voices and what they’re saying,” she said. “I care more about inner beauty.”
Promote change and break stereotypes.s
Xueli has used her platform to raise awareness about albinism and speak out against false statements that often portray individuals with the condition as mythical figures rather than real people. She firmly believes that her differences don’t define her, and she’s determined to prove that to the world.
Recently, Xueli was named a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador. Through this role, she aims to challenge conventional beauty standards and promote greater inclusivity in the modeling industry. “I am only one person,” Xueli said. “But with the title of Goodwill Ambassador, I can raise awareness. If more people with disabilities appear in the media, society will begin to see disability as normal.”
Xueli’s story is a powerful example of resilience, courage, age, and the ability to redefine beauty according to one’s own ideas. Her journey continues to inspire and pave the way for a more inclusive world.
Xueli Abbing’s journey from being abandoned at birth to becoming a beacon of inspiration and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador is a testament to her resilience, determination, and unwavering belief in herself. Not only has she redefined conventional beauty standards, but she has also used her platform to advocate for inclusivity awareness and acceptance.
Her courage to embrace her uniqueness and fight prejudice demonstrates the power of self-love and the importance of representation in the media. By sharing her story and challenging societal norms, Xueli continues to inspire countless individuals to see beyond the surface and appreciate the beauty within.
As he continues his mission to create a more inclusive and understanding world, Xueli’s legacy serves as a reminder that our differences are not flaws, but strengths that shape us into who we are. With his work, he is paving the way for a future where everyone is celebrated for their individuality.