GOORAMA!

Chantelle Winnie Young-Brown, better known as Winnie Harlow, was diagnosed with a skin condition called vitiligo when she was just four years old.

Vitiligo causes melanin-producing cells to malfunction, and the result is typically a patchy appearance that’s more noticeable on darker skin tones. It isn’t contagious or deadly, but the most devastating side effects of the disease are psychological, since those who suffer from vitiligo are often bullied for things that are beyond their control.

And that was certainly the case for Harlow, who was constantly taunted by her peers for the way she looked. You can imagine their surprise when the gorgeous, talented woman effectively took over the modeling industry.

Before we get into the life of this truly one-of-a-kind woman, let’s just take a moment to appreciate her slayage.

Okay, now we can dive in. Winnie Harlow stunned judges and viewers alike when she auditioned for “America’s Next Top Model.” What she had to say when she stepped in front of the camera set the tone for her history-making rise to supermodel stardom.

Her goal is to celebrate the beauty of difference — the quirks that set us apart and help us become the most authentic versions of ourselves.

Her message resonates with fans who feel isolated by things that they’ve been conditioned to associate with shame.

Harlow’s story makes it clear that what other people see as physical imperfections should never hold us back from being true to who we are.

And that’s where she really shines. Although it’s easy to see that the camera loves her, she’s more interested in the fact that her story brings diversity to an industry that’s famous for flying in the face of inclusivity.

She heard the word “no” so many times before she finally broke through the glass ceiling that tried to hold her down as both a woman of color and as someone who suffers from a condition that few people understand.

If you want to learn more about Winnie Harlow’s life and career, check this out!

To keep up with all of the model’s adventures, be sure to follow her on Instagram. And just remember, ladies and gents…