South African media personality Refilwe Modiselle, already known for breaking barriers as the country’s first successful model with albinism, has achieved a new milestone her first children’s book, Zizi’s World: Through Her Vanilla Eyes. The book, published in partnership with Lingua Franca and released in late June 2025, uses children’s literature to address myths and misconceptions about albinism while promoting self-acceptance and inclusivity.
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What Is ‘Zizi’s World’ About?
The book tells the story of Zizi, a young girl with albinism, who moves to a new city and starts at a new school. As Zizi navigates her new environment, she notices she looks different from her classmates. With the support and encouragement of her parents, Zizi learns to embrace her unique identity, setting the stage for empathy, respect, and celebration of diversity.
Modiselle directly addresses the purpose of her book in a quote to Eyewitness News:
“The book is based on Zizi, who is a child with albinism, and her experience of a child who moves from one environment to then is introduced to the next, but with the opening of her reality as a child with albinism. The book brings around conversations around albinism, her parents giving her the reality about albinism and just the environmental aspect of handling the myths and misconceptions around albinism and as well as just that dynamics, just navigating that into the world and her environment and her socialisation.”
Why This Story Matters
Children with albinism often face misunderstanding and exclusion. Myths about their physical appearance persist, even leading to harmful stigma. By centring Zizi’s experiences, Modiselle gives young readers both with and without albinism a story that is both relatable and educational. The book features South African settings and a local context, making its message especially relevant for families and educators here.
Modiselle extends the story’s impact by aiming it at both children and adults:
“I’ve also always felt like if I had a book to read that had representation for people like me, the world would be a lot kinder in grooming kids with more emotional intelligence. This just wasn’t about writing a book; it was an intentional labour of love to teach children about embracing differences.”
Themes and Message
Zizi’s World covers themes of kindness, respect, unity, and standing up for others. Modiselle highlights the importance of emotional intelligence and compassion. She hopes the book encourages children to ask questions, understand differences, and celebrate individuality. Parents and educators will find it a helpful tool for sparking conversations about diversity, inclusion, and empathy in classrooms and homes.
Modiselle explains:
“The book aims to educate parents, educators, and children about albinism and promote love, integration and acceptance. It addresses the environmental and social aspects of living with albinism, including myths, misconceptions, and the importance of inclusivity and diversification.”
About Refilwe Modiselle
Refilwe Modiselle is an award-winning actress, television presenter, model, and motivational speaker. She has long used her platform to advocate for greater understanding and acceptance of people with albinism, both in South Africa and globally. Her journey, personal and public, deeply informs the authenticity and warmth of Zizi’s World.
How to Engage with the Book
Zizi’s World: Through Her Vanilla Eyes is available at leading South African bookstores and through Lingua Franca Publishers. Families, schools, and community groups are encouraged to incorporate the book into reading programs and classroom discussions, especially during awareness campaigns about albinism and disability.
The Ripple Effect
This debut marks a significant moment in South African children’s literature. It provides representation for children who seldom see themselves in stories. It also invites all readers to reflect on difference, identity, and belonging. By promoting empathy and respect from an early age, Zizi’s World contributes to a more inclusive South African society.
Refilwe Modiselle’s vision is clear and powerful. As she states:
“I hope and pray it fuels some education and the culture of reading too.”
Through Zizi’s journey, Modiselle inspires new generations to embrace difference, challenge myths, and choose kindness.
Refilwe Modiselle’s debut is both timely and necessary. It arrives at a moment when South Africa and the continent grapples with myths surrounding albinism and seeks ways to foster greater inclusion. Through Zizi’s eyes, readers gain a fresh perspective, one that celebrates difference and affirms the dignity of every child.
Zizi’s World: Through Her Vanilla Eyes stands as a landmark in South African children’s literature. Refilwe Modiselle has crafted a story that educates, empowers, and entertains. The book’s themes of individuality, resilience, and acceptance resonate universally, making it a valuable addition to home and school libraries. As South Africa continues its journey toward greater inclusivity, stories like Zizi’s will help light the way.
