From birth, children rely on their parents for love, protection, and the foundation for healthy development. When this bond is severed, it can deeply affect their emotional and physical well-being.
Xueli Abbing, a 16-year-old born in China, experienced this firsthand when her parents abandoned her.
The orphanage staff named her “Xueli” – with a special meaning tied to her appearance. “Xue” means snow, and “Li” means beautiful.
Xueli was born with albinism, a genetic condition that reduces melanin in the skin, hair, and eyes, making them appear lighter or colorless. Fortunately, she was adopted by a loving Dutch family who provided her with the care and support she needed.
At age 11, Xueli’s life took a turn when a designer from Hong Kong invited her to model in a fashion campaign highlighting diverse beauty. She recalled to the BBC, “She called the campaign ‘perfect imperfections’ and asked if I wanted to join her fashion show in Hong Kong. It was an amazing experience.”
Despite the discrimination and stigma people with albinism often face, sometimes even being “hunted” for the supposed medicinal value of their bones, Xueli remains grateful. “I’m lucky I was only abandoned,” she said.
Xueli refuses to accept harmful stereotypes, particularly the portrayal of people with albinism as angels or ghosts, which saddens her. She is determined to make a difference, stating, “I’m not going to accept that children are being murdered because of their albinism. I want to change the world.”
We wish this snow-white beauty all the best in her journey and hope she continues to inspire change in how the world views albinism.
