Inspiring teen model with down syndrome just landed a new campaign
This 18-year-old girl with down syndrome is destroying barriers in the world of fashion as she pursues a successful modeling career. The beautiful Madeline Stuart from Brisbane, Australia won't let anything stand in the way of achieving her dreams.
It was Stuart's strength and determination that attracted EverMaya, and new accessories brand, to the inspiring model. Damian Graybelle, co-founder of the brand, told TODAY.com:
"Madeline has external beauty — Down syndrome or not. But secondly, she captures inner beauty, which is something the EverMaya brand is all about."
Modeling today is no longer all about appearances. Inner beauty is just as valued as physical attractiveness. Stuart clearly has the whole package. Graybelle said:
"You have a young girl who wants to become a model, and instead of her mom dismissing this as a teenage fantasy, they hire a personal trainer, she loses 50 pounds. She is so inspiring and she epitomizes all those ideals about what real beauty is, not superficial beauty, real beauty that is more than skin-deep. The fact that she happens to be gorgeous is just a plus."
Stuart works hard to pursue her dream of modeling. She was fully dedicated to losing weight despite how difficult it was for her. She has to work even harder than your average model given her disability, but she perseveres through it all and comes out smiling. She wrote on Facebook:
"Modeling is changing society's view of people with Down syndrome, exposure is creating acceptance in life and inclusion."
In addition to EverMaya, Stuart has been hired to model for Manifesta, a women's athletic clothing brand. The company wrote on its site:
"For years Madeline has fought against the struggles, both internal and external, that go along with Down syndrome. Through dance, swimming and cheerleading, she has worked to strengthen her heart and body. And through her modeling career, she has forced many to reconsider the conventional standards of beauty."
Stuart is making people view disabilities in a more positive light. She's reversing stigmas with regard to both disabilities and modeling. This inspiring young woman has already accomplished so much. We have no doubt that she'll continue to succeed and spread empowerment and love.
A post shared by Madeline Stuart (@madelinesmodelling_) on Jul 12, 2015 at 3:57am PDT
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