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"Remind the world that everyone is beautiful." These are the words of Ilka Brühl - a 26-year-old woman from Germany, who took it upon herself to spread positivity and empowerment by telling her own story.

Since the day she was born, Ilka has lived a troublesome life. "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."

Now, after countless operations, Ilka is a strong, confident woman, sharing her story and experiences, with hope to encourage people to love themselves. Two years ago, she has begun posing for some of her photographer friends. "There was so much positive feedback, that I got more and more courage to show myself as I am. Pure and unaffected," she told.

Ilka shares her images, motivating people to come out of their shells and to show their true beauty. "There is only one way to be ugly: by having an ugly character. No one has to hide because of their appearance!"

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

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Alia G.
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5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not only is she an amazing model, the photography skills are fantastic!

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Merilyn Horton
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5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think her appearance allows a photographer to show greater depth of emotions.

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Crista Downey
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5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I love this one, the black and white shows all of her. Just gorgeous.

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BusLady
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5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The same as before, but closer. You can see the fog on the window from her breath.

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Valerie Ward
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4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why are her eyes blackened underneath? Is this strange bruised "look" part of her defect, perhaps? I know she is using her defect to make her stand out..but the fact is that she is very beautiful, anyway..If she were overweight and short the companies would not pay any attention. This is STILL about the body.

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Scarlet Black
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5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't think I've seen anyone so beautiful. She's just wow. Breathtaking really.

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