Growing up with the support of a family often provides children with stability and confidence. When that foundation is missing, early life can begin with uncertainty. For Xueli Abbing, however, a difficult start did not define her future. Today, she is internationally recognized as a model who has appeared in major fashion publications, including Vogue Italia, while also using her platform to promote awareness and understanding of albinism.
Her story has been widely shared by reputable media outlets as an example of resilience, inclusion, and changing beauty standards in the fashion industry.
Early Life and Adoption
Xueli Abbing was born in China and left at the entrance of an orphanage shortly after birth. As with many children abandoned under similar circumstances, information about her biological parents is not publicly known. Orphanage staff named her Xueli, a name often translated to reflect beauty and snow, inspired by her appearance.
Xueli was born with albinism, a genetic condition characterized by reduced melanin production, which affects skin, hair, and eye pigmentation. Albinism is a medically recognized condition and is not an illness or disability in itself, although it can be associated with visual impairment.
She was later adopted by a family in the Netherlands, who provided her with a supportive and stable upbringing. In interviews with established news organizations, Xueli has credited her adoptive parents with giving her confidence and encouragement to embrace who she is.
Understanding Albinism
According to medical and health organizations, albinism is an inherited genetic condition present from birth. People with albinism may have light skin, hair, and eye color, as well as varying degrees of visual impairment. While the condition affects appearance, individuals with albinism can live full and active lives.
Public misunderstanding about albinism remains common in many parts of the world. Advocacy groups and health authorities emphasize the importance of education to address myths and stigma, and to promote respectful, accurate language such as “person with albinism” rather than labels that reduce individuals to a condition.
Xueli has spoken openly about the importance of using correct terminology and helping others understand that albinism does not define a person’s identity or potential.
Entering the World of Modeling
Xueli’s entry into the fashion industry began unexpectedly. At the age of 11, she was approached by a designer in Hong Kong who was organizing a project focused on showcasing diverse forms of beauty. The campaign aimed to challenge traditional standards by celebrating individuality and difference.
She later described the experience in interviews with outlets such as the BBC as both exciting and educational. The project introduced her to the fashion world and allowed her to see how representation could influence public perception.
This early exposure laid the groundwork for future opportunities, but it did not come without challenges.
Breaking Stereotypes in Fashion
Models with albinism have historically been underrepresented in mainstream fashion, and when included, they are sometimes styled in ways that emphasize stereotypes rather than individuality. Xueli has spoken about her desire to be treated like any other model, without being reduced to a visual concept.
A turning point in her career came when she worked with a professional photographer in London who approached the collaboration with respect and creativity. The resulting images focused on fashion, expression, and personality rather than novelty.
One photograph from that shoot was later published by Vogue Italia in its June 2019 issue. The appearance marked a significant milestone, not only for Xueli personally but also for broader conversations about diversity in high fashion.
At the time, she said she did not immediately realize the global influence of the magazine, only later understanding why the publication mattered to so many people.
Navigating Modeling With Visual Impairment
Like many individuals with albinism, Xueli experiences reduced vision. She has shared that bright lights and camera flashes can be uncomfortable, making modeling physically demanding at times. Despite these challenges, she continues to work in the industry with appropriate support and adjustments.
Her experiences highlight the importance of accessibility and understanding within creative professions. Industry professionals increasingly recognize the need to accommodate different physical needs, ensuring that talent is not limited by outdated expectations.
Advocating for Representation and Inclusion
Beyond modeling, Xueli Abbing has become an advocate for representation and awareness. In interviews, she has emphasized that diversity in media should not be treated as a trend but as a normal reflection of society.
She has spoken about the value of seeing people with differences represented respectfully in magazines, advertising, and popular culture. According to her, visibility can help reduce misunderstanding and encourage acceptance, particularly for young people who may feel isolated because of how they look.
Xueli has also highlighted the importance of education around albinism, noting that misconceptions can lead to exclusion and discrimination. By sharing her story through reputable media platforms, she aims to contribute to a more informed and compassionate public conversation.
Redefining Beauty Standards
The fashion industry has gradually expanded its definition of beauty in recent years, featuring models of different backgrounds, abilities, and appearances. Xueli’s work aligns with this shift, demonstrating that uniqueness and authenticity resonate with audiences worldwide.
She has expressed hope that future generations will grow up seeing diversity as ordinary rather than exceptional. For her, modeling is not just a career opportunity but a way to challenge assumptions and encourage empathy.
A Continuing Journey
Xueli Abbing’s journey from abandonment to international recognition is a powerful example of resilience supported by opportunity, family, and self-belief. Her story has been shared by trusted media outlets not as a spectacle, but as a reminder of the importance of inclusion, education, and accurate representation.
As she continues her career, Xueli remains focused on using her platform responsibly—celebrating individuality, promoting respectful language, and encouraging understanding of albinism.
Her experience shows that when society broadens its perspective, it creates space for more voices, more stories, and a more inclusive vision of success.