International Albinism Awareness Day (IAAD), observed every year on June 13, marks a decade of global recognition in 2025. The theme for this year, “Demanding our rights: Protecting our skin, Preserving our lives,” calls for fairness, safety, and respect for people with albinism.

IAAD celebrates people born with albinism, while also raising awareness about the condition, the challenges they face, and the need for inclusive protection in all parts of society.

Albinism is a rare genetic condition that affects the body’s production of melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes. Because of this, people with albinism usually have very light skin and hair, along with poor eyesight. They are also more at risk of skin damage and skin cancer from sun exposure, especially in hot regions like Africa.

Despite being a genetic disorder and not a disease, albinism is still widely misunderstood. People with albinism often face extreme forms of discrimination, exclusion, and in some cases, violent attacks and ritual-related killings, especially in parts of Sub-Saharan Africa. Many of these acts are fueled by deep-rooted superstitions and a lack of public education. Social stigmatization extends into areas like education, employment, and healthcare access, further worsening the marginalization of affected individuals.

Speaking on the importance of this year’s observance, Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, Executive Director, FAME Foundation, stressed that inclusion must be intentional and rooted in empowerment;

“People with albinism do not need our pity, they need our support. They need tools, visibility, access, and platforms that respect their rights and recognize their capabilities,” she said. FAME Foundation through our HerSTEM initiative, we are not just training girls and women with disabilities to use computers; we are opening doors to independence, to self-worth, and to a future where their identities are not a barrier.”

HerSTEM initiative has become a safe space where girls and women living with physical and genetic disabilities, can gain foundational and advanced training in ICT, robotics, and coding. By combining classroom instruction with mentorship, the program supports girls in reclaiming their voices and preparing for successful careers in sectors where they have historically been underrepresented.

Arabinrin Aderonke concluded by saying,

“Every girl deserves to be seen, heard, and supported. This includes girls and women with albinism. We are building a Nigeria where no one is invisible and where no condition, genetic or otherwise can stop a girl from dreaming or achieving.”

FAME Foundation calls on policymakers, private sector actors, educators, and community leaders to invest in inclusive programs that go beyond awareness. Protecting the skin and preserving the lives of persons with albinism also means investing in their minds, talents, and futures.