Beautiful Madeline’s dream comes true

When we first told you about Madeline Stuart, we were overwhelmed by your support for the brave Aussie model determined to make a difference.

And now Madeline has fulfilled her dream of taking her message of inclusion to the most exclusive place of all – New York Fashion Week.

The 18-year-old model from sunny Brisbane has Down syndrome, which that hasn’t stopped her from pursuing her goal of becoming a model. What started with a Facebook campaign grew to become a professional modelling career – the bubbly redhead even has a handbag named after her!

In just a few hours, she will tread the runway at the New York Fashion Week — in couture and resort wear.

Madeline’s mother, Rosanne, says her daughter is incredibly excited to be in New York.

“I think it’s amazing that she’s been given this opportunity. It’s a fantastic platform for us to get our beliefs across on inclusion and disability.”

Madeline will appear in a show organised by fashion producers FTL MODA with the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation and Models of Diversity, a British group that campaigns for diversity in the fashion industry.

In this image, posted just a few hours ago on Facebook, Madeline is getting ready for the show:

Join us in wishing Madeline good luck and congratulating her on her incredible achievement!