In a world fascinated by Instagram reels and shaped by unrealistic beauty standards, the contributions of vitiligo awareness advocates hold immense value. These influencers, consciously or unconsciously, reshape narratives and champion inclusivity for all skin types. Every year, Unite For Vitiligo takes a moment to celebrate these trailblazers who, in their unique and impactful ways, are redefining history. To honor their efforts, we document their profound influence on the vitiligo awareness movement.
For our seventh annual tribute to these extraordinary individuals, we contacted over 1,200 people living with vitiligo. Of these, more than 560 actively participated in an electronic survey, voting for over 100 carefully curated influencers. Voters also had the opportunity to nominate an influencer who personally inspired them, ensuring the list reflects both authenticity and inclusivity. After a month of meticulous work to compile and analyze the results, we present the 10 outstanding individuals who made a significant impact on the vitiligo awareness movement in 2024.
10. Domonique J Vinegar, Fitness Model and Dancer
Domonique J. Vinegar, known as Scooben Von Duben, is a powerhouse of talent and resilience. Domonique’s multifaceted artistry spans singing, rapping, songwriting, hip-hop dancing, modeling, fitness training, and hat design through his handmade brand, GymmyKappz. He is also the founder of Blotchlife, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering and encouraging people with vitiligo.
Born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, Domonique is a beacon of inspiration for young people with vitiligo, but his journey to self-love wasn’t easy. For Domonique, the turning point came from a perspective-shifting quote in Catwoman: “Give up who you are and become who you were born to be.” This wisdom helped him see his evolving vitiligo as a gift rather than a burden.
“If my vitiligo went away, I’d be devastated. I’d feel so normal and basic, like a peacock with no color,” Domonique shared his thoughts with us when we profiled him for “our Vitiligo Crusaders campaign back in 2018.
9. Prarthana Jagan, Beauty Influencer
Prarthana, a makeup artist and content creator, has recently become a leading voice for vitiligo awareness in India through her impactful “Be Yourself” themed posts on social media. By sharing her inspiring journey on platforms like India Today Mindrocks, she has worked to challenge perceptions of vitiligo and emphasize the importance of raising awareness about the condition.
Despite societal prejudices surrounding her appearance, Prarthana has turned her struggles into powerful triumphs. Her story has been featured by major Indian media outlets, including The Better India, Homegrown, and Brown Girl Magazine, highlighting her as a symbol of resilience and inspiration.
8. Andre Noel Joachim Jr., Therapist
Andre Joachim Jr. was diagnosed with vitiligo at 18, a time when social media and awareness about the condition were scarce. The only prominent figure he could relate to was Michael Jackson. The societal ignorance he faced was immense, from young women misjudging his condition as contagious to being denied a job at McDonald’s due to fears about his appearance. These experiences forced Andre to build resilience and eventually embrace his vitiligo.
Today, Andre is an inspiring advocate, model, and entrepreneur. He founded Viti-Wear Viti-Nation, a clothing line designed to empower the vitiligo community and spark awareness. As a Youth and Family Therapist pursuing a Ph.D., Andre is channeling his experiences into research on the psychological and social impact of vitiligo. Through his advocacy, Andre strives to eliminate discrimination and foster collective empowerment, ensuring that every vitiligo fighter knows they are part of a vibrant, supportive family.
7. Baillie Annalise, Dancer and Model
Meet Baillie Annalise, a 25-year-old dancer from Manchester. Represented by Zebedee Management, an agency that champions models with disabilities and visible differences, Baillie embodies both grace and individuality. A proud Mancunian who loves music and social events, she is deeply passionate about nature and personal growth. She describes her ever-growing commitment to supporting healing and liberation for all, always striving to help whenever possible.
Baillie’s talents and charisma have secured her roles in notable campaigns, including modeling swimsuits for Hollister Co. and appearing in promotions for Boux Avenue, Canva, Method UK, G, and Avon. A longtime dancer with a flair for Hip Hop, House, and Vogue styles, she was recently profiled by Cult Beauty magazine and previously featured in Vogue Italia. Beyond her striking beauty and unique style, Baillie is celebrated by her followers for her uplifting energy and positive outlook on life.
6. Natalie Ambersley, Vitiligo Awareness Advocate
Natalie Ambersley is a passionate advocate for vitiligo awareness, using her voice to inspire and support others living with the condition. As a Director at The Vitiligo Society, the UK’s longest-standing charity dedicated to vitiligo, Natalie has created platforms for discussion, awareness, and empowerment. She has made media appearances on London Live, The Lorraine Show, and a BBC3 special titled What Not to Say to Someone with Vitiligo. Her story has also been featured in magazines like Happiful, Phoenix, Fabulous, and Blackhair Magazine.
Diagnosed at the age of 2, Natalie’s journey with vitiligo began as a small spot on her hand, which eventually spread across her body. Growing up in a time when differences were not celebrated and representation was scarce, she faced misunderstandings and insecurities, particularly during her teenage years. Speaking to us back in 2018, she shared a powerful message: “Vitiligo has made me stronger and more understanding of how unique we all are in this world. I never imagined there would be a day when I would feel at peace with who I am, but to be living my best life as a woman with vitiligo is refreshing.”
5. Kirpal Bhogal, Vitiligo Awareness Advocate
Affectionately known as Kirps within the community, Kirpal Bhogal is a model represented by Zebedee Management. Alongside fellow vitiligo advocates such as Shankar Jalota, Joti Gara-Aura, Natalie Ambersley, and Alec King, Bhogal is dedicated to fostering a more inclusive society in the UK. This year, Bhogal helped The British Beauty Council to promote its campaign, “A Beauty Industry That Looks Like You,” which explored the representation of diversity in the British beauty sector. Through his social media, he also helped the council launch The Beauty Census, a comprehensive survey aimed at understanding public perceptions of equity, inclusion, and diversity within the industry.
Kirpal has acted and modeled in numerous advertisements, including campaigns for STANLEY Security, Odeon, and TUI UK. In the past, he walked the runway at London Fashion Week and graced the front cover of Spotlight, the magazine of the Dutch Vitiligo Association. Now 39, Bhogal first experienced vitiligo at the age of 10. This early encounter with the condition still fuels him to help young children navigate their own vitiligo journeys through his social media platforms.
4. Lid’ya C. Rivera, Filmmaker and Author
Lid’ya C. Rivera’s journey began in infancy when she was diagnosed with vitiligo, a condition that subjected her to childhood bullying and planted the seeds of low self-esteem. For Lid’ya, growing up with vitiligo and a lack of representation in the books, toys, and games around her left her feeling lonely and “different” from other kids. Now Lid’ya is using a book to inspire children with vitiligo today to feel seen and love their skin. Her Children’s book, “I Absolutely, Positively Love My Spots” is a lyrical celebration of self-esteem, perseverance, and loving the skin one is in.
Today as a vitiligo advocate, filmmaker, published author, and confidence coach, Lid’ya empowers others to embrace their uniqueness. Her passion for storytelling and dedication to raising awareness about vitiligo have found expression in her award-winning film “Beauty Marks.”
3. Yvesmark Chery, Model
In the modeling world, where appearance often takes center stage, 28-year-old Yvesmark Chery shines as a symbol of confidence and inspiration. Born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in Philadelphia, Yvesmark grew up navigating the challenges of living with vitiligo, marked by a distinctive spot on his face that made him a target for bullying and rejection. Despite these hardships, he embraced his unique look and turned it into a strength.
Yvesmark’s impressive modeling career includes collaborations with renowned brands like Adidas, Puma, Fendi, CAROLINA HERRERA, Lacoste, H&M, and GQ Turkey. This year, he gained widespread attention when his video with Winnie Harlow promoting vitiligo awareness went viral on World Vitiligo Day, solidifying his status as a prominent advocate. As a result, Dose of Society and Open Influence, along with many local media outlets, profiled him, possibly helping him earn recognition on the list for a second consecutive year.
2. Sharon M King, Disability Rights Advocate
If you’re part of the vitiligo community online, you’ve likely come across Litty Ligo, an initiative transforming the way vitiligo fighters connect and thrive. Founded by Sharon King, Litty Ligo provides peer support, education, and empowerment through social media, user content, events, products, and merchandise. With 15% of its profits dedicated to charitable organizations, this unique venture blends advocacy with generosity.
Sharon King, the visionary behind Litty Ligo, is a trailblazer who refuses to let vitiligo define her. Based in Boston, Massachusetts, Sharon wears many hats: she is a disability rights advocate and services coordinator, a board-certified high school sports official, a private chef, and the fearless leader of Litty Ligo LLC. Her journey with vitiligo began at age 12 when she discovered a white patch under her left eye. While childhood bullying and societal pressures posed challenges, Sharon’s resilience and the support of her friends helped her persevere. Over the years, she has embraced her vitiligo without covering it and emphasizes living life fully, encouraging others to find joy and purpose beyond treatments. As Sharon prepares to host Litty Ligo’s inaugural community event “Beautiful Both Ways” in August 2025, her unwavering commitment to empowering the vitiligo community continues to inspire.
1. Winnie Harlow, Model and Beautypreneur
Diagnosed with vitiligo at 4, Winnie Harlow transformed her experiences of childhood bullying into a powerful mission to celebrate and promote the diversity of beauty. In July 2011, she posted a YouTube video titled “Vitiligo: A Skin Condition, Not a Life Changer” to share insights about her condition and answer questions about living with vitiligo. And from there onward, she became a prominent voice of vitiligo awareness. Soon, she was discovered by America’s Next Top Model (ANTM) host Tyra Banks on Instagram to become one of the 14 finalists of the show in 2014. Later that year, she gave a TEDx presentation detailing her journey and experiences of living with vitiligo.
Harlow’s career as a model includes gracing the covers of Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, ELLE, and other global fashion magazines. She has also walked the runways for iconic fashion brands like Moschino, Marc Jacobs, and Coach, and has been the face of campaigns for Fendi, Bulgari, Dior, Armani Beauty, Tommy Hilfiger, Puma, Maybelline, Smartwater, Cîroc.
Today Winnie Harlow’s impact extends beyond fashion. Most recently, She launched her skincare brand, Cay Skin, inspired by a severe sunburn during a beach photoshoot that worsened her vitiligo. For the seventh consecutive time, she has been recognized as the most influential figure with vitiligo, topping this list once again.
