The 24-year-old model - who was diagnosed with the skin condition vitiligo at the age of four - hopes her success will encourage other people to follow their dreams.
"We need to make sure that all bodies are celebrated and shown in a positive way - no matter what shape, condition, or colour it may be," she stressed.
Winnie, who will appear in the upcoming Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue, cited Naomi Campbell and Tyra Banks as two of her biggest inspirations.
"They helped paved the way for our beauty to be celebrated. And of course, how can I forget the gorgeous Kate Upton, perhaps the most iconic SI model."
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