At just 19, Axel Schylström’s life changed forever. A subway-surfing accident left him with a 16,000-volt electric shock and burns on 70% of his body, including half his face. The first battle was simply surviving. But the hardest part, Axel says, was realizing he’d never look the same again.

Music became his escape during the long months of recovery. Eventually, it became his purpose. Axel auditioned for Swedish Idol—and stunned everyone by placing fourth. Once ashamed of his reflection, he was suddenly performing on national TV, watched by millions.

Now 30, Axel is not only a successful singer but also a motivational speaker. His goal? To help others—especially burn survivors—find strength in their scars. “True beauty,” he says, “comes from the love you have for yourself.”

He’s inspired by others too, like acid attack survivor Katie Piper, who showed him that healing isn’t just physical—it’s emotional and spiritual, too.

Axel’s message is simple but powerful: “It’s okay to look different. What matters is how you see yourself.