Xueli Abbing’s story is one of unimaginable resilience, determination, and hope. Born with albinism and abandoned outside an orphanage in China, she faced more challenges in her first few years than many experience in a lifetime. Yet, against all odds, she rose to international prominence as a model for Vogue. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity.
A Rough Start: Abandoned but Not Defeated
Xueli’s life began in the shadow of China’s strict one-child policy, which led to countless heartbreaking stories of abandoned children. Compounding her situation was her albinism, a genetic condition marked by a lack of melanin, resulting in pale skin, hair, and eyes. In many cultures, albinism is misunderstood, and in some places, it’s considered a curse. But for Xueli, it became a unique characteristic that would set her apart.
At just three years old, Xueli’s life changed when she was adopted by a compassionate family in the Netherlands. They named her Xueli, meaning “snow” and “beautiful,” a name that would prove prophetic as she grew into her unique identity.
Finding Beauty in Imperfection
At the age of 11, Xueli’s modeling career began almost serendipitously. A Hong Kong designer invited her to participate in a photoshoot titled “Perfect Imperfections,” which aimed to celebrate diversity in beauty. For Xueli, it was an eye-opening experience.
“That campaign made me realize that beauty isn’t about fitting a mold,” Xueli shared. “It’s about embracing what makes you different.”
This opportunity not only introduced her to the world of modeling but also ignited a passion within her to challenge stereotypes and redefine beauty standards.
From Orphan to Icon
While modeling brought her joy, it also exposed her to the harsh realities faced by people with albinism. In parts of the world, particularly in regions of Africa, individuals with albinism are subjected to horrific violence and superstition. They are hunted, mutilated, and even killed due to the false belief that their body parts have magical or medicinal properties. Xueli has often expressed gratitude that her challenges, though significant, didn’t escalate to such extremes.
Despite the obstacles, Xueli’s talent and unique appearance caught the eye of a photographer in London. This collaboration led to her first feature in Vogue Italia at just 16 years old. Reflecting on the milestone, Xueli admitted, “I didn’t even realize how big of a deal it was until I saw everyone’s excitement.”
Challenging Stereotypes in Fashion
The fashion industry often perpetuates narrow ideals of beauty, and Xueli is on a mission to change that. For decades, models were expected to conform to rigid standards, but times are evolving. Now, there is a growing space for individuals who challenge these norms, and Xueli is at the forefront of this movement.
Her modeling sessions are far from easy. Due to her albinism, Xueli has limited vision—only 8 to 10 percent—and bright flashes from cameras cause her physical discomfort. Yet, she continues to embrace the camera, determined to redefine what beauty looks like.
“Maybe because I can’t see everything clearly, I focus on people’s voices and what they say,” she explained. “To me, inner beauty always outweighs physical appearances.”
Using Her Voice for Change
Xueli’s rise to fame hasn’t just been about glamorous photoshoots and high-fashion campaigns. She has leveraged her platform to raise awareness about albinism and advocate for others who share her condition.
“I want people to understand that albinism is a genetic disorder, not a curse,” Xueli said. “It’s important to say ‘a person with albinism,’ not just ‘an albino.’ The way we speak about it matters.”
She has also taken a firm stance against the violence and discrimination faced by individuals with albinism, particularly in countries like Tanzania and Malawi. “I refuse to accept that children are being murdered because of their albinism,” she asserted.
Empowering Others to Dream Big
One of Xueli’s greatest aspirations is to inspire children with disabilities or differences to dream without limits. “You can do and be anything you want,” she often says. “People might say you can’t, but you can. Just try.”
Her message is clear: your circumstances do not define your potential. Whether through her work in the fashion industry or her advocacy efforts, Xueli continues to prove that beauty lies in diversity and resilience.
Vogue: A Stepping Stone to Greater Heights
While her Vogue Italia feature was a career-defining moment, Xueli’s journey didn’t stop there. She has graced runways, participated in fashion campaigns, and even modeled for renowned brands like Kurt Geiger. Each step in her career has been fueled by a desire to challenge societal norms and expand representation in fashion.
For Xueli, modeling isn’t just about taking stunning photographs; it’s about sparking conversations. She believes that showcasing diverse models can shift perceptions and foster greater acceptance of differences.
The Future Looks Bright
At just 16, Xueli has already achieved more than most could dream of, but she’s far from finished. She envisions a world where everyone, regardless of their differences, is celebrated for who they are. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for those who feel marginalized or misunderstood.
Xueli’s journey from abandonment to international acclaim is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. By embracing her uniqueness and challenging the status quo, she has carved out a space for herself in a world that initially sought to exclude her.
Conclusion: A Star with a Mission
Xueli Abbing’s story is more than a tale of rags to riches—it’s a narrative of courage, transformation, and the unwavering belief in one’s potential. From being left at an orphanage to gracing the pages of Vogue, she has shown the world that beauty comes in all forms.
Her mission to raise awareness about albinism and empower others to embrace their differences ensures her legacy will extend far beyond the fashion world. In Xueli, we see a future shaped by compassion, courage, and an unyielding commitment to change.
