7 Empowering Stories of Embracing Vitiligo with Strength and Pride in Kenya

By: Regina Mulea | Published on: June 27, 2025

According to the Global Vitiligo Foundation, approximately 70 million people worldwide live with vitiligo, an autoimmune disorder that causes patches of skin to lose pigmentation due to the destruction of melanocytes — the pigment-producing cells.

The condition is particularly visible among individuals with darker skin tones, including many people of African descent, where the contrast between depigmented and natural skin is most pronounced. Though not contagious or painful, vitiligo often leads to psychological distress, stigma, and social exclusion.

From Isolation to Empowerment: Julie Nasuju’s Journey

In Kenya, one of the most vocal advocates is Julie Nasuju, the founder of the Royal Patches Foundation. Julie began experiencing symptoms in childhood. “When I was in Class 2, I asked my mom why I looked different from my brothers,” she recalls.

Diagnosed with vitiligo vulgaris, Julie faced bullying and alienation in school. Out of fear and confusion, she once told classmates that vitiligo was contagious, hoping to avoid questions — a defense mechanism that only deepened her isolation.

The discrimination followed her into adulthood. Rejected from jobs because of her appearance — including being told she would “scare customers” — Julie found herself grappling with depression and low self-worth. In 2015, after facing rejection from her father, she decided to confront her reality by educating herself and embracing her appearance.

“I started modeling and seeing the beautiful side of it,” she says. Her patches, at one point, formed patterns resembling the map of Kenya and Africa. This connection to identity and geography inspired her to celebrate her condition — even getting a tattoo to mark the moment. “These patches are artistic,” she now declares proudly.

Andrew Okal: Redefining Representation

Andrew Clifford Okal, another Kenyan living with vitiligo, also turned his pain into purpose. Initially discouraged from pursuing mass communication because of his skin, Andrew shifted to education and never looked back.

“I love teaching because I interact with people who want to learn — not just academics, but about life through my experience,” he explains. Eventually, he stopped using medication and embraced his natural look. “It doesn’t hurt, it doesn’t itch. It’s just the skin color — and I love it.”

Today, Andrew uses social media and public events to educate others and normalize vitiligo. “If I face discrimination, I force you to understand what vitiligo is, so you embrace it,” he says. Through storytelling and advocacy, he is reshaping how society views difference.

Medical Insight: Vitiligo Explained

According to Dr. Winnie Maina, a leading Kenyan dermatologist, vitiligo may remain stable for some individuals or progress unpredictably for others. “It’s not something people acquire due to contact. It’s largely tied to genetic predisposition,” she notes. The condition can skip generations and may not be influenced by environmental factors.

Understanding the specific type of vitiligo is key to managing it effectively. While there is no known cure, treatments exist that can help control its spread or partially restore pigment. Emotional support and counseling are just as important, given the psychological toll of the condition.

Global Shift: Challenging Beauty Norms

Around the world, public attitudes are shifting. Celebrities like Winnie Harlow, a Canadian supermodel with vitiligo, and Ms. Universe Egypt have publicly embraced their condition, helping to redefine global beauty standards.

In Kenya, this movement is gaining momentum. Julie Nasuju now organizes awareness events and online campaigns through Royal Patches to help others with vitiligo overcome depression, anxiety, and isolation. “When I started posting my pictures, people asked how I dealt with the stigma. I knew I had to keep going — for them,” she says.

Hope, Advocacy, and Community

Vitiligo is more than a skin condition — it’s a journey of identity, resilience, and acceptance. The stories of Julie Nasuju and Andrew Okal show the power of turning vulnerability into visibility. By speaking out, they are paving the way for future generations to live free of shame and full of pride.

As the Royal Patches Foundation and others continue to raise awareness and offer support, the future looks brighter for the 70 million people worldwide living with vitiligo.

For more stories about resilience and health, visit our Wellness Section.

Original source: CGTN Africa