Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day With Boundary-Breaking Kennedy Garcia
Today we’re celebrating World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), a global awareness day created to celebrate the lives of people with Down syndrome and help ensure they have the same freedoms and opportunities as everyone else. So, for World Down Syndrome Day we spoke to boundary-breaking model and actress, dancing queen and TikTok star, Kennedy Garcia, to share her story with you.
As a young woman with Down syndrome, Kennedy has conquered many obstacles during her life, including overcoming leukemia and spine surgery before she was 5. During this time, she fell in love with dance and as soon as she was able to, she started dance classes, and that played a major part in her future. Just some of her impressive achievements include becoming the first model with Down syndrome to work for the iconic American Girl brand and fashion brand, Justice. She’s not just good at working the camera either, Kennedy has acted in both music videos and films and continues to model and do public speaking when she’s not breaking it down in her kitchen or creating epic TikToks.
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Kennedy is passionate about being a role model for others and told us, “I hope that other girls with Down syndrome can see that they can do it too and that all other people can see that beauty isn’t just one certain thing. It’s everywhere.”
We were lucky enough to ask Kennedy a few questions about some topics close to both our hearts. So, get to know the incredible and inspiring Kennedy and learn from this warm, talented and bright young woman.
1. Have you always wanted to be a model and what drew you to it?
Yes I have. I have always loved taking pictures and started boutique modeling when I was very young and loved it so much. When I got my first big job with American Girl, I was hooked!
2. How did you get started with modeling? Was it scary?
It’s not scary! I feel amazing in front of a camera, like it’s where I’m supposed to be. I started just with Instagram and then I got an agent and have been working so hard ever since then!
3. What’s your fave thing about modeling and how does it make you feel?
I know I have to follow directions but my favorite thing is when I get to be myself and just have fun! Those are always the best memories. I also love meeting new people and making new friends.
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4. How does it feel to be breaking down boundaries every day as a model with Down syndrome?
That makes me feel awesome and I hope that other girls with Down syndrome can see that they can do it too and that all other people can see that beauty isn’t just one certain thing. It’s everywhere.
5. Do you feel that beauty standards are beginning to be more inclusive? What more would you like to see from the industry?
Yes for sure. Inclusion is hard and we have a long way to go in so many areas, but I think we are getting there. I hope that in the beauty industry people with Down syndrome and other disabilities will just be everywhere so it won’t be a surprise anymore.
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6. What does beauty mean to you?
Beauty means shining just the way you are and loving yourself for who God made you.
7. When you’re not modeling, how do you like to relax and show yourself self-love?
I love to dance, make TikToks, hang out with my friends, and definitely sleep in as late as my mom will let me!
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8. What does self-love mean to you?
Loving myself and taking care of my mind, body and spirit.
9. What do you want people to know about Down syndrome that you think they might not?
I guess that all people with Down syndrome are different. Having Down syndrome doesn’t make us all the same, just like having blonde hair doesn’t make you all the same. We all have our strengths and weaknesses and our own different personalities.
10. What’s your advice for anyone who wants to break boundaries like you have?
Work hard and never give up! There are so many people who will say no but one day someone will say yes!! Keep trying!
We are so grateful to Kennedy for sharing her story with us – head over to our @hudabeauty Instagram today to see her taking over our stories and find out more about her journey. Learn more about World Down Syndrome Day and ways that you can take action and make a difference here.
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