Guess who is modelling for New York fashion week in September?
At just 18-year-old, Madeline Stuart couldn't contain her excitment about walking the catwalk at one of fashion's biggest events of the year.
Guess who is modelling in NY for NY fashion week xx
A photo posted by Madeline Stuart (@madelinesmodelling_) on Aug 11, 2015 at 5:30am PDT
The young Australian joins the ranks of top local models Jessica Hart, Abbey Lee Kershaw and Miranda Kerr, who have all strutted their stuff on the runways for NYFW.
But, the coveted modelling gig is an even bigger deal for Stuart, who has Down syndrome.
Earlier this year Stuart revealed she hoped to follow in the footsteps of actress Jamie Brewer who became the first model with Down syndrome to be cast for NYFW.
Now Stuart, the red-head from Brisbane, has got her wish. And then some.
This is the first time a model with Down syndrome has landed two NYFW campaigns - first with athletic wear company Manifesta and second as the face of eco handbag brand everMaya.
"It is very exciting and it's going to take her from one level to the next," her mother, Roseanne told Cosmopolitan. "I know [American Horror Story actress who also has Down syndrome] Jamie Brewer did it in February, but she is a movie star, she's not a model. With Madeline, this is her career, so I think it's going to be a great platform for her."
FTL Moda celebrated the announcement on their Facebook page:
"It is with the utmost joy and pride that we announce Madeline Stuart's participation in #FTLModa #NYFW #SS2016 presentation. Beautiful Madeline will brighten up the runway at the #VanderbiltHall on September 13th 2015. Stay tuned and RSVP!"
It is with the utmost joy and pride that we announce Madeline Stuart's participation in #FTLModa #NYFW #SS2016...Posted by FTL MODA on Wednesday, August 5, 2015
"We are absolutely thrilled to work with a talent like Madeline on our newest national ad campaign," Damian Graybelle, everMaya's president, said in a statement at the time. "All of us at everMaya feel very strongly about creating a brand that is rooted in a spirit of inclusion and providing opportunities for those who begin life with barriers to success."
Roseanne added: "There hadn't been anyone who chased this dream, whereas Madeline really chased it. She wanted this and she worked hard for it."
It's a dream no one thought Madeline could reach.
"Her doctors told me she would never achieve anything," Roseanne said earlier this year.
"Modelling will help change [society's] view of people with Down Syndrome," Madeline wrote on her Facebook page with the help of her mum. "Exposure will help to create acceptance."
Fairfax Media
