Teen Model With Down Syndrome Breaks Barriers.

Gigi Cunningham Teen Model With Down syndrome
(images via Erica Butler and Majestic Time Photography.)

Gigi Cunningham always dreamed of a career in entertainment. The 17-year-old endured relentless bullying and faced repeated rejection, due to having Down syndrome, but she persisted. Now, with a few local modeling jobs under her belt, Cunningham is slowly gaining national attention. She hopes her story will inspire others.

“When people read my story I want them to know that I can do anything, [and] with social media the world will see my true potential and beauty,” she told The Mighty. “I want the modeling world to give me a chance also and I guarantee you will not be disappointed. I want the world to really change how they perceive people with disabilities and continue to embrace their beauty. Never set limits on your child… they just might exceed them. People with Down syndrome are beautiful, smart, creative, loving, confident and it should be displayed.”

Next week, Gigi will serve as one of three representatives in the Buddy Walk in Urbana, Illinois. The event is held by the National Down Syndrome Society. She’ll also hit the runway, later this month, in the 2015 “Be Beautiful Be Yourself” Fashion Show in Denver, Colorado, which is put on by the Global Down Syndrome Foundation (GDSF). The event, which has raised over $9.5 million for Down syndrome research and education, is the largest fundraiser in the country.