From Abandoned Baby to Global Inspiration: The Remarkable Story of Xueli Abbing
Xueli Abbing’s life story is one of resilience, identity, and breaking stereotypes. Born in China with albinism, a rare genetic condition that affects skin, hair, and eye pigmentation, Xueli was abandoned as a baby and left at the door of an orphanage. In many parts of the world, albinism is still misunderstood, often surrounded by stigma and fear — something that shaped the earliest chapter of her life.

The orphanage staff named her Xueli, a poetic name meaning “beautiful snow.” When she was just three years old, her life changed forever after she was adopted by a loving family from the Netherlands. Growing up in Europe gave Xueli a safe environment where she could begin to understand and accept who she was.
Her journey into the fashion world happened unexpectedly. At the age of 11, she was discovered by a designer who was searching for children with unique appearances for a campaign celebrating diversity and so-called “imperfections.” That single opportunity opened doors she never imagined. Not long after, Xueli made headlines by appearing in Vogue Italia, becoming a powerful symbol of inclusivity in an industry often criticized for narrow beauty standards.

More than just a model, Xueli uses her visibility to educate people about albinism. She openly speaks about the condition, emphasizing that it is not a disease or a curse, but simply a genetic difference. Through interviews and public appearances, she challenges harmful myths and encourages society to see beyond appearances.
Today, Xueli Abbing is not only recognized for her striking look, but also for her voice. She has worked with international organizations and continues to advocate for acceptance, equality, and self-confidence. Her story proves that beauty comes in many forms — and that a difficult beginning does not define the future.


