Do you believe in dreams? How many times have dreams become reality? Dreams do come true! A teenager girl with Down syndrome, Madeline, wished to become a model. Madeline not only became a good model but also stunned everyone by proudly walking the runaway at New York’s Fashion week. She has become a face of a cosmetic company called Glossigirl. She is one of the fortunate children to have a supportive and helpful mom like Rosanne who took a important step by accepting the challenge of facilitating her daughter to achieve her ambitious dream to become a model. Madeline is also an ambassador and founder/member of the Dance Ensemble project which is launched by InsideOutside Theatre Company to empower young people with disabilities who have talent and desire to become professional dancers. Let us congratulate Madeline for her achievements.

Can you tell us more about your journey of becoming a model? What kind of lifestyle changes have you made in order to pursue a modelling career?M: The journey has been very fast, less than a year ago I didn’t know I would be a model, I didn’t really even know what a model was as I don’t’ watch television much. Now we travel all the time and do photo shoots every other week. We have always been busy but now we are super busy.

What is the biggest challenge you face as a model? How do you define beauty? What was your first modelling assignment?M: I think the biggest challenge is the long hours and when I am tired people still expect me to smile all the time. sometimes when I meet strangers it is hard if I have had a long day, I love meeting people but sometimes I just want to have a rest. I think beauty is on the inside, you have to be a good person to be beautiful, I think our actions show more about us then our looks. My first job was for Manifesta.

Tell us about your experience at New York fashion show? How does it feel to be the first professional adult model with Down syndrome in the world? What are your emotions as you walk on the ramp?M: NYFW is amazing, when I am walking I am so excited, I have trouble containing myself. I don’t’ really think of myself as the first model or as a fashion model, I would rather be a role model and help people.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?M:  I have no idea, as long as I am happy that is all that matters.

Who is your favorite model? Did you get a chance to meet with him/her?M: I don’t have any favourites, I have met a lot of wonderful models, one of my close friends is Rebeka Marine the bionic model.

What are your other hobbies?M: I have my own dance school called Inside Outside dance ensemble which I help run with my mum and Angela Whitcher, that is my favourite, dancing and doing workouts.

What is your favorite place to visit and why?M: NY of course as I love to model on the catwalk

What do you like to do when you are with your friends?M:  I love to swim, dance and play sport with my friends, especially my boyfriend Robbie.

What advice would you give to our special kids who want to pursue modelling as a profession?M:  I would say believe in yourself, stay healthy and have fun.

Any special message for our community?M:  Please always treat people equally, we are all worthwhile and we all want to love and be loved.