BREAK BARRIERS WITH ENYA.

It’s Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and over the past decade we’ve witnessed multiple industries become more inclusive and represent the community in a multitude of ways—as they should! Here, we chatted with Enya (she/her), aka Down Syndrome Queen, about being a model and influencer with Down syndrome while working in the fashion industry.

 

What does it mean to you to show the world what it’s like to be a model and influencer with Down syndrome?
Being a model and influencer living with Down syndrome can be a powerful way to make a positive impact on society. It involves using your platform to change perceptions, promote inclusion, and empower others to embrace their unique abilities and qualities. It’s about showing the world that individuals with Down syndrome, like everyone else, have the potential to achieve their dreams and contribute to the world in meaningful ways. As a model and influencer with Down syndrome, I represent a group of people who are often underrepresented in the fashion and media industry. This helps broaden society’s perspective on beauty and talent, and challenges and breaks down stereotypes and misconceptions about people with Down syndrome.

You recently collaborated with NA-KD for a collection. What was that like?
It was an amazing experience in which I was able to fulfill many goals. I’ve been passionate about fashion my whole life, so releasing a collection is a dream come true. What makes it even more special is that this is the first collaboration between a clothing brand and someone with Down syndrome. I feel so lucky and honored! We shot the collection in my favorite city, Paris, which I’ve been walking through my whole life, and now I shot a campaign there. It was a big dream where I shared a lot of laughs with a fantastic team.

You’ve achieved a lot at this point in your career. Are there any accolades that you’re most proud of?
There are many things I’m very proud of—from the connections that I’ve made in the industry, to breaking down barriers, launching campaigns, and so much more. I’m proud of myself, but also proud of others who contribute to the fight for diversity and inclusion, including some fantastic companies. However, I also realize that there’s still a lot of change that needs to happen because we’re definitely not all the way there yet.

But, what I’m most proud of from the last few months is my Barbie campaign and the NA-KD collection.

What’s next for you? Any exciting projects you can share?
I can’t reveal any secrets, but there’s a lot of exciting stuff that I can’t wait to share with all of you. We’re just at the beginning! And for now, I want to say, “Say yes to diversity!”