Child with Down syndrome turns mini model in swimwear ad campaign

KARACHI: A baby girl with Down syndrome is the star of a new designer swimwear campaign.

Valentina Guerrero, a ten-month-old girl from Miami, Florida, appears on the cover of a US
catalogue for Spanish designer Dolores Cortes’ new collection.

The child also made her runway debut four days ago at Miami Swim Fashion Week where she was
carried onto the stage by the designer.

She is the first Down’s syndrome person to be chosen as the main model of a prominent
fashion designer’s campaign.

“People with Down’s syndrome are just as beautiful and deserve the same opportunities,” the
designer said in statement.

“I’m thrilled to have Valentina modelling for us”, designer added.

Down syndrome also known as trisomy 21, is a chromosomal condition caused by the presence of all or part of a third copy of chromosome 21.

Often Down syndrome is associated with a delay in cognitive ability and physical growth, and
a particular set of facial characteristics.

The average IQ of young adults with Down syndrome is around 50, compared to children without
the condition with an IQ of 100.

Valentina was born last September and is the daughter of Miami TV host Cecilia Elizalde.

Valentina is seen in her own catalogue representing a colourful range of swimwear options
for little kids.

She is depicted in swimming costumes with floral patterns as well as strings of pink and white bows.

The idea behind the campaign is to “highlight inner beauty, breaking traditional moulds dictated by fashion and celebrating differences that make each individual unique”, according
to the brand’s website.