Mexican model Ruby Vizcarra’s striking complexion contributed to fear and insecurity on her way to fame. As a child in Guadalajara she was ridiculed as a freak. Kids bullied her and called her a ghost. Mothers would not let their children play with her for fear that they would “catch the sickness”.

Ruby has turned albinism to her advantage with her modelling career and has launched an organization called Movimiento Albino Latino to support albinos. She is now secure and confident about her looks: ‘It been a very long road, but I am finally proud of who I am, and through my modeling platform, I have reached others who are like me,’ she said. ‘Being different is a blessing.’