26-year-old born with extremely rare facial condition is now breaking beauty standards and inspiring millions

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26-year-old German model Ilka Brühl is on a mission to empower and inspire the world about the true definition of beauty with her special appearance and incredible modeling skills. In her own words, we need to ‘”Remind the world that everyone is beautiful.” And she keeps doing it every single day.

“I think EVERYBODY is beautiful in her or his own way,” writes 26-year-old German model Ilka Brühl. “There is only one way to be ugly: by having an ugly character.”

It’s a common enough cliche. But for Ilka, it isn’t a tired platitude — it’s a dogma, and it’s one she’s worked hard to embrace.

Ilka was diagnosed with ectodermal dysplasia since her birth. However, this rare genetic disorder couldn’t put her spirit down. She kept her cheerful and bright personality despite the looks and the judgments of others.

Since she was born Ilka’s life was definitely not the easiest one. “I was born with a facial cleft and my nose airways were not properly formed,” she told Project Grenzenlos. “In addition, I lacked on the right side of the tear duct, so that the permanent natural moistening of the eye has led to me right tears have always run out of the eye.”

Being a beautiful and brave woman that she is, Ilka is sharing her story with others trying to encourage people to love who they are. Posing as a model for her photographer friends Ilka was amused by the amount of the positive feedback she received, and now she is encouraged more than ever to share her experience with the world.

“There is only one way to be ugly: by having an ugly character. No one has to hide because of their appearance!” Scroll down to see beautiful pictures of Ilka yourself!

More info: ilka-bruehl.de | Facebook (h/t)