Born in Shanghai, China, Xiao immigrated to Los Angeles at a young age. A graduate of Malibu High School and the Los Angeles Film School, he spent much of his youth skiing, swimming, rock climbing, kayaking and shooting. When he was 15 and a freshman in high school, he decided to try surfing and “what started as an exciting adventure ended in a nightmare.” He suffered surfer’s myelopathy, a rare, non-traumatic spinal cord injury from hyperextending the back. Through rigorous rehabilitation and the support of family and friends, he defied the odds and gained mobility.

He took up competitive shooting and is now a two-time Paralympian, winning the silver in Mixed 25m Pistol at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. Xiao is also a National, Pan-American and World Champion in shooting. Curious about societal structures, global events, and human narratives, he will pursue a college degree in economics, history, and English literature. He hopes to blend his analytical mindset and discipline with his experiences as an athlete to contribute to society. While studying at Hillsdale College, he will continue to train for the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.