Gina Heslop
Winnie Harlow, whose birth name is Chantelle Brown-Young, is an extraordinary supermodel who has not only graced the fashion industry with her beauty but has also played a pivotal role in redefining beauty standards. Her journey is a remarkable testament to resilience and self-confidence. Winnie’s life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with vitiligo at the tender age of four.
Vitiligo is a skin condition that causes the loss of skin color in patches, and it sets her apart from what society considers conventional beauty. Growing up, Winnie faced a world where she felt like an outlier, as the media and fashion industry rarely featured individuals who looked like her. She revealed, “I felt like I was the only person in the world like me. I don’t think my skin condition affected my self-esteem as much as the people around me affected my self-esteem.”
However, Winnie’s life changed dramatically when she was discovered by journalist Shannon Boodam, who recognized her potential as a model. Boodam created a viral video that showcased Winnie’s unique beauty and encouraged her to pursue modeling. This newfound exposure opened doors for Winnie, and her journey in the fashion industry began. At the age of 19, Winnie Harlow decided to compete on America’s Next Top Model, hosted by the iconic Tyra Banks.
While she didn’t emerge as the winner, the experience was transformative for her. She faced criticism and doubt from others, with people suggesting that modeling wasn’t for her. Despite these challenges, Winnie’s determination was unshaken. Today, Winnie Harlow is not just a model; she’s a symbol of self-assured confidence. She has become the face of a famous fashion brand and uses her platform to speak out about beauty standards.
Her public talks inspire countless individuals, encouraging them to embrace their uniqueness and focus on their own self-worth rather than seeking validation from others. Winnie’s story is a testament to the power of self-belief and resilience.
Her journey from feeling like an outsider to becoming a fashion icon has left an indelible mark on the modeling world, reshaping the industry’s perception of beauty. Through her unwavering confidence and determination, Winnie Harlow has shattered stereotypes and empowered others to do the same, proving that beauty truly lies in the eye of the beholder.
