This blog was posted on my personal site Y Voz.

We’ve all heard stories of average people being turned down opportunities, only to come back praised and rewarded. Yet, how many of these stories told the journey of someone with Down Syndrome?

Two years ago, London Fashion Week made way for the first fashion designer with Down Syndrome, Isabella Springmühl Tejada. At only 19 years old, she managed to pave the wave for love and inclusion for those like her. As well as those who struggle with obstacles to make their dreams come true.

Luck struck when she was able to feature her designs in a Guatemalan museum featuring Mayan textiles. These designs were quickly sold out at this museum. Forcing the popularity of her designs to spread back to Europe. The beautiful irony of colonial cultures admiring and adopting indigenous styles, especially coming from someone “flawed.”

Isabella took London Fashion Week by storm and is still creating gorgeous, unique designs for EVERYONE. Styles all feature indigenous Guatemalan textiles, representing her home country. She’s also making a point to design clothes and accessories specifically for her community. She’s been quoted to say that it is difficult to find clothes that fit those with Down Syndrome properly. Inspiring her many inclusive design patterns.

This powerful Latina is paving the way for those living with Down Syndrome, and particularly Latinos living with Down Syndrome. Throughout the world, Latinos are devalued, and those with disabilities are even more so. Let’s celebrate her bravery against the norm.

Her explosive mark on the fashion industry introduced many to the colorful world of those with Down Syndrome. Since 2016, she has spoken at a TEDx talk, created a business, supported relief efforts in Guatemala, and continued to design. Keep up with her happenings check out her website, coming soon, and her Instagram @downtoxjabelle.

Surprisingly not many are talking about her! Yet, we see Latin America’s indigenous designs as the current trend in clothing and accessories. How amazing would it be if she were the one leading that charge?