Madeline Stuart took the fashion industry by storm, but she didn’t just wake up one day to all her dreams laid out nicely in front of her. 18 year old Madeline has Down syndrome, but that hasn’t stopped her from working really hard to turn her dreams into a reality.
She posted some pictures of her practicing posing online and overnight they went viral. Once she realized people appreciated her refreshing new take on fashion and beauty standards she started a brand new diet and exercise program to get in shape. Her modeling career didn’t end there. She’s been the front of numerous campaigns, has her own namesake bag and showed off three looks in this season’s FTL Moda presentation. Her recent accomplishment? Maddy has been named the recipient of the Melange “Model of the Year” award.
Stuart is exactly what the industry so obsessed with a “perfect body” and “perfect look” needs. She is very adamant about sending out one important message: anyone can be beautiful. Maddy and her mother hope to spread the idea of inclusion and reaching for the stars, not just in the fashion industry, but in every aspect of life. Her mom went on to say, “Whatever you want to do, do it. Don’t take no for an answer, and follow your dreams.” She hopes that by spreading Maddy’s message, people get used to seeing a person with Down syndrome and that they can just walk up to him or her and have a conversation without worry.
Maddy doesn’t plan on stopping her modeling career anytime soon. Her upcoming projects include photo shoots and walking at the UN fashion show next year in New York. The fashion world has been waiting for a positive influence like Madeline Stuart. They’re embracing her, the message she’s sending to our society and the change she is making!
See also: 18 Pics That Prove Madeline Stuart Is The Fiercest Model Out There Right Now