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Top 15 Facts about Winnie Harlow

 Originally published by Barbara M on December 8 2022 and Updated by Benji M on January 2024

It’s difficult to believe that one can go from contemplating suicide to becoming the most talked-about model, but that’s Winnie Harlow’s story. She is only 28 years old and has a fortune of $5 million, which will only grow as she continues her entrepreneurial journey.

She’s also a spokesperson and activist born in the Greater Toronto Area to Lisa Brown and Windsor Young. 

 Her skin, which has vitiligo, distinguishes her from the other models. Nonetheless, she aspires to be known as “Winnie Harlow, the model,” rather than “the model with vitiligo.” After all, there’s more to her than meets the eye, as you’ll see below.

1. Winnie Harlow was chosen by Beyoncé for a role in her film

Beyoncé. Photo from

They say we shouldn’t turn our backs on anyone, because some people have welcomed angels without realizing it. Similarly, Winnie’s destiny was about to change when she was offered a role in a film. She declined because she had no idea it was Beyoncé’s. However, Beyoncé’s assistant revealed to Winnie who was behind the film, which was all the motivation she needed. Winnie therefore flew to New Orleans, where the film was being shot, and met Zendaya, Serena Williams, and Blue Ivy Carter.

2. Winnie Harlow was homeschooled

People can be cruel, especially if you do not live up to their expectations. Bullying has become commonplace, both on the internet and in schools, and Winnie was unfortunately a victim. Her skin was different from her friends, which drew negative comments, with some even calling her a “zebra.” Winnie dropped out of regular school to be homeschooled when it became too much for her to bear, according to CNN.

3. Her mother taught her how to care for her nails

Practice will not make you perfect, but it will help you improve. Winnie’s mother worked as a hairdresser, so she spent most of her time in the salon assisting. The model enjoyed doing her mother’s clients’ nails, and by the time she was an adult, she was quite good at it. She picked up a few pointers, one of which is that keeping your cuticles and nails moisturized can give them a beautiful transformation.

4. She wished her condition would go away

Although Winnie’s skin is not bothering her right now, she used to sit by the window looking at the stars and wishing her skin was normal. She had noticed she was different in third grade, and making friends was difficult because no one wanted to be near her; their naive minds led them to believe they would catch the disease. Winnie had suicidal thoughts as a result of the stigmatization, but she is now grateful that she did not act on them.

5. Winnie Harlow is the world’s first vitiligo model

Winnie Harlow’s Met Gala preparations with Tommy Hilfiger for Forbes magazine. Photo by Owl Bridge Media.

Winnie was diagnosed with vitiligo, a skin condition characterized by loss of skin pigmentation when she was only four years old. It is caused by a lack of melanin, and only 1% of the world’s population has it.

As a result, until Winnie, having a model with vitiligo walk the runway was unheard of. She rose to prominence after appearing on “America’s Next Top Model,” though she did not advance to the finals. Despite this, Winnie has since appeared on the covers of various magazines and high-end fashion labels such as Victoria’s Secret.

6. She does not regard herself as a role model for anyone

Winnie Harlow. Photo by Georges Biard.

Most children will tell you that they want to be like so-and-so when they grow up. Winnie believes we should not try to imitate anyone. Instead, she encourages people not to compare themselves to others.

She advises that we all have our own paths to follow, so rather than trying to replicate someone else’s journey, we should seek inspiration and forge our own path.

7. Winnie Harlow had her first kiss, in the first grade

A boy kissing a girl on her cheek. Photo by Bessi.

We all remember significant events in our lives, and the first kiss is undoubtedly one of them. Although most of us experience it later in life, Winnie experienced it as a child.

She had been crushing on a certain boy for so long that when the opportunity presented itself, she did not pass it up. They were playing boys versus girls freeze tag, so she ran out to her crush and pinned him on the floor before smothering him with her first kiss.

8. She despises being labeled as a “vitiligo sufferer“

When you have a disease or disorder, people will tell you that you have it, but Winnie does not want anyone to tell her that she has vitiligo. She stated that it is incorrect to label her as “suffering,” because she is not. Instead, she believes she is triumphant and living the best life possible.

She uploaded a video on YouTube in July 2011 titled “Vitiligo: A Skin Condition, Not a Life Changer.” She discussed the condition and answered questions about her life with vitiligo. Harlow recounted her experience with it in a TEDx talk in November 2014. At the 2015 Portuguese GQ Men of The Year event, she received the ‘Role Model’ award.

9. Winnie Harlow denied having a relationship with Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton. Photo by Jen_ross83.

When the media has a picture to serve as “proof” of a story making headlines, they can feed the public lies. It happened to Winnie and Lewis, who were accused of secretly dating but eventually admitted that they were not a couple. Winnie once stated that they were only spotted together by chance.

She revealed that Lewis invited her to join him on his private jet as they both flew to New York Fashion Week. They were seen together at a club the day after they arrived in New York, which sparked the rumors. Gossip mongers even embellished the lies by claiming that Winnie and Lewis had collaborated on a song.

10. Winnie Harlow waved the chequered flag two laps early at The Canadian Grand Prix

The Canadian Grand Prix finished two laps ahead of schedule after supermodel Winnie Harlow prematurely waved the chequered flag.

A race official instructed Harlow to wave the flag on what should have been the race’s penultimate lap, implying that the final result was determined one lap earlier. The mistake did not affect the race result because leader Sebastian Vettel maintained racing speed for what should have been the final lap, though he did send a radio message back to Ferrari warning them that it had been displayed too early.

Harlow attended the race as a Formula One guest and is a friend of Lewis Hamilton. In the hour following the gaffe, the supermodel saw the humor in the situation and responded to several tweets, including one from Renault driver Nico Hulkenberg. It was later revealed that the flag was given to her at the incorrect time due to a misunderstanding between the start/finish gantry and race control.

 11. Harlow has graced the runways of prestigious fashion shows

, , via Wikimedia Commons

The incredible Canadian model Winnie Harlow has been on some of the world’s most renowned catwalks. Imagine walking the catwalk at major fashion events like New York Fashion Week and London Fashion Week—Winnie has done it! She’s unique compared to other models, which is what makes her so remarkable.

She’s altered people’s perceptions of models by being authentic and showcasing her distinct attractiveness. Winnie is proof that you can be a celebrity in the fashion industry without having to look like everyone else. She changed people’s perceptions of beauty with her strides down those runways, and that is truly amazing!

12. Winnie has ventured beyond modeling, establishing herself as an entrepreneur

Winnie Harlow is a driven businesswoman in addition to being a model! In addition to walking the catwalks, she launched her own cosmetics line and accomplished some amazing commercial feats. This indicates that she enjoys making items that give people confidence in addition to fashion. Winnie is a clever and inventive businesswoman in addition to being a stunning beauty.

If you love cosmetics and want to look as good as she does, her beauty brand is like a dream come true. Through all of this, she’s encouraging others to follow their aspirations and make things happen in addition to showcasing her stylish side. Winnie Harlow is living evidence that style and confidence can coexist!

13. Harlow is a powerful speaker, using her platform to address issues related to beauty standards, self-acceptance, and inclusivity

, , via Wikimedia Commons

Beyond her attractiveness, Winnie Harlow is a dynamic speaker who covers significant topics. She urges everyone to embrace who they are and uses her narrative to make people feel better about themselves. Imagine her reminding everyone that it’s great to be different while she’s up on a stage! Winnie uses her words to uplift others wherever she goes.

She is there to give people strength and confidence, whether that comes from teaching them how to love themselves or about beauty standards. Winnie is more than just a model; she’s a buddy who encourages you and tells you that you’re wonderful in your unique way. Her speeches are like a positive energy explosion that improves the planet!

14. Winnie Harlow uses her influence to promote positive messages and connect with fans

In addition to her modeling career, Winnie Harlow is well-known for her prominence on social media. Imagine having millions of admiring, supportive, and active online friends! Winnie updates her admirers with chic photos, beauty secrets, and interesting anecdotes from her life. She spreads positivity and demonstrates the awesomeness of being oneself with her social media skills.

With so many fans, she turns into a global role model who inspires happiness and self-assurance in others. Everybody is free to join in on the fun on Winnie’s social media, which is like a vibrant and welcoming area where she shares glimpses of her everyday life with her fashion looks!

15. Winnie Harlow’s impact extends beyond the fashion industry

, , via Wikimedia Commons

Not only is Winnie Harlow a superstar in the fashion industry, but she has admirers all across the world, much like a superhero! She is well-known and admired by people everywhere for her strength and awesomeness. She advocates for worthy causes in addition to modeling clothing. Winnie has received recognition and accolades for her work in fashion as well as for being a positive role model.

Her impact extends beyond chic outfits and images. She serves as a universal representation of beauty and bravery. Through Winnie’s story, we are taught that it’s acceptable to be unique and that true beauty stems from being oneself. Winnie Harlow, who has admirers all around the world, is a bright example of how one person can have a significant, beneficial impact on the world.