Meet Neo Charlotte Kgomo, born on February 21, 2001, who has bravely shared her journey with an autoimmune disease called vitiligo.

Growing up, Neo was very shy and struggled with confidence. During her primary school years, she faced teasing because of her body and felt self-conscious about her darker skin. Her family situation didn’t make things easier. As the oldest child, Neo didn’t have an older sibling to look up to. Her mom, who was very strict, didn’t encourage her self-esteem, and Neo often felt overlooked compared to her lighter-skinned sisters.

Neo’s mom was very strict, limiting their social life and keeping them away from friends and outings. This strictness led to a very sheltered life for Neo and her sisters. The absence of their fathers meant their mother and grandmother were their main sources of support, but Neo still felt alone and unsupported, especially when she began to question about her father.

Life took a difficult turn for Neo on January 4, 2022. She began to experience burning and sensitivity around her eyes, and soon developed a rash. With no money for proper medication, Neo used a local cream that helped initially but left her skin dark and peeling. The pink patches around her eyes grew, causing her deep anxiety and fear about how others would react.

When Neo shared her condition with her boyfriend, his reaction was hurtful, making her feel unloved and more anxious. Feeling isolated, she moved to stay with her mother’s family in Mafikeng, South Africa. There, she was met with pity and sadness as they showed her pictures of her great grandmother who had a similar skin condition.

In Mafikeng, Neo felt overwhelmed by the stares and comments from others. She even deleted her Instagram photos, feeling like she’d never be the same. However, a turning point came when she returned to Johannesburg and her mother welcomed her back with open arms, showing understanding and support.

Neo found strength through the support of her family and a newfound friend, her ex-boyfriend’s aunt. She helped Neo regain her confidence by teaching her to embrace her uniqueness and not to worry about what others think. With her guidance, Neo learned to love herself and found joy in her individuality.

Today, Neo embraces her vitiligo as a part of her unique beauty. She has learned not to let negative comments or stares affect her self-worth. Her advice to others dealing with similar challenges is to embrace their uniqueness and remember that time and self-acceptance are powerful tools for finding happiness.

As Neo’s role model, Winnie Harlow, wisely said, “I have my flaws, but I embrace them and I love them because they are mine.” Acceptance and time are key to feeling beautiful and happy in your own skin.

Watch the video here:

If this story inspired you, spread it with someone who needs to read it. Stay Inspired

(via Neo Kgomo )