Madeline Stuart is breaking stereotypes and barriers. The 18-year old has down syndrome, but will not let the disorder affect her from living her dreams.
Down syndrome is a genetic disorder that causes developmental and intellectual delays.
The Australian born model will be walking this September during New York Fashion Week for the first time.
What a gig! Madeline will be strutting her stuff Sept. 13 for FTL Moda, which has partnered with The Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation to feature models with disabilities in its shows."
Madeline told TODAY, she was honored for the opportunity to inspire others during the major fashion event. "I am so excited that society is taking so much interest in the disability sector and our belief in inclusion is getting so much media coverage," she said.
"I think that the message of inclusion is something a lot of people believe in and want to see succeed," Stuart said. "I believe people can see love through our photos."
Madeline shared a photo captioned "Guess who is modeling in NY for NY fashion week xx" on her Instagram to announce the big news.
FTL Moda shared the news with their followers on Facebook by posting the same with the caption, "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!"
Madeline's mother said she is proud, however unsurprised that her inspiring daughter would land a gig at New York Fashion Week. "When we were asked to do New York Fashion Week, I wasn't surprised at all," she said to Cosmopolitan Magazine. "I don't think anything really surprises me anymore. She's been asked to do a lot of stuff and I was hoping to she'd get asked to do NYFW but I assumed it would happen. I hope that doesn't sound too pretentious."
Nope, not at all! Rightfully so, her mother should be proud as, Madeline's success in inspiring so many others. The young model's Instagram account holds more than 73,000 followers. Stuart told TODAY, she will be receiving training from a former model before she rips the runway. Like any other true model, Madeline added, "I love being on the catwalk," she said.