We never know where life will take us or how our story will unfold. This certainly rings true for Xueli Abbing, who was abandoned at an orphanage as a baby. Little did she know that she would one day become a celebrated model for Vogue. Xueli’s inspiring journey serves as a reminder that our beginnings do not define our destiny.
Embracing Imperfections
Xueli’s time at the orphanage was short but impactful. The staff named her Xue, meaning “snow,” and Li, meaning “beautiful.” They saw past her abandonment and loved her unconditionally. At the age of 11, Xueli’s life took another turn when her adoptive family from the Netherlands welcomed her into their hearts and home.
At an age when most children are still finding their identity, Xueli embarked on a modeling career. It all started when her mother introduced her to a designer friend who was working on a campaign called “Perfect Imperfections.” They saw Xueli’s unique beauty as a perfect fit for their vision. This opportunity opened the doors to the world of fashion and was the beginning of something extraordinary.
From Modelling Campaigns to Vogue
Xueli’s talent and distinctive appearance caught the attention of renowned photographer Brock Elbank, who invited her to his London studio for a photoshoot. Little did she know that this would be a defining moment in her career. The portrait captured during that session was shared on Instagram, and it quickly garnered attention.
This newfound recognition caught the eye of Zebedee Talent modeling agency, who reached out to offer Xueli a chance to be a part of their mission – to represent people with disabilities in the fashion industry. The incredible opportunity allowed her to be featured in Vogue Italia’s prestigious June 2019 edition, alongside Lana del Rey on the cover.
Breaking Stereotypes and Inspiring Change
Xueli relished the creative freedom she found in the world of modeling. She embraced the chance to challenge stereotypes and redefine beauty standards. As someone with albinism, she understood the misconceptions and prejudices faced by individuals with disabilities.
Xueli did not want to be confined to the limited roles often given to models like her. Instead, she aimed to showcase the diversity of beauty and encourage representation of people with disabilities and differences in the media. She believed that featuring individuals like herself should be the norm, not an exception.
A Model’s Journey Continues
Xueli’s journey has taken her from being an abandoned child at an orphanage to becoming an international model. While Vogue was a significant milestone in her career, it was only the beginning. Alongside being a photo model for Vogue Italia, Xueli has achieved much more. From fashion shoots to catwalks and modeling for brands like Kurt Geiger accessories, she continues to defy expectations.
If you want to see more of Xueli’s incredible work, be sure to check out her Instagram page. Her story serves as an inspiration to all, proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
