One can argue for the photographer being an artist, but fashion is more than a static model. We try to emulate life in our lives by applying what we see in pictures by following strict diets and judging ourselves for what we don’t have because they are glorified over magazines.
As society moves towards a world where difference is celebrated, one model fights against discrimination and beauty expectations as they both live in different worlds.
Jessica Jacinto was born with Down Syndrome, and because of this condition, she has to deal with both mental and physical challenges which makes her different than most models.
Despite a lot of people that have this condition, there is discrimination against those that are different.
It has been found that people with Down syndrome have had a hard time fitting into society. This is due to a lack of knowledge and understanding about what Down syndrome entails.
Despite these challenges, Jessica did not give up on her dream of becoming a professional model.
Jessica began modeling at the age of 14, practicing sports like gymnastics and athletics. Though she found happiness with this work, she also loved pursuing her studies in other areas.
Yanira and Jessica attended the beauty pageant together, and as Yanira watched her daughter walk down the runway, she realized “this was her world.”
After Jessica put her heart into her hobby and talent, she knew that was what she wanted to do in the future.
“Learning for a career requires dedication and innovation,” says model Jessica. “Even if you don’t believe that it is possible, when I am on the catwalk, the other side of me comes out. I feel empowered and fulfilled.”
She had been working hard at this for a decade. Her mother, her biggest supporter, had been there by her side the entire time, managing her social media and finding opportunities for sonia to surf on Instagram.
As a model, she has been invited to many castings. Local entrepreneurs and designers all describe her as having a great charisma and strength.
Despite the hardship, Jessica and her mother remain committed to their dreams of becoming a model. They believe that the dream will come true; although Venezuela still has a long way to go in terms of inclusion.
