Woman with Down syndrome makes history at USA beauty pageant
This inspirational 22-year-old is aiming to break down the stereotypes of beauty pageants and to inspire other women to embrace their true selves.
Mikayla Holmgren recently made history when she became the first woman with Down syndrome to compete in the Miss USA beauty pageant. She has been performing since the tender age of just six - she loves dancing and being in front of a crowd. Her smile and passion is really infectious and is something that I simply admire.
Read - Beauty pageants: Do they serve a purpose in today's society?
Mikayla's aim is to change the way people see persons with disabilities and wants to show others that girls who have disabilities should never be held back from following their dreams and what they believe in.
Her courage and determination was acknowledged as she went on to win the Spirit of Miss USA Award and also the Director’s Award at the pageant.
Read: Six lessons I learned from raising a child with Down syndrome
This is such wonderful story. I love that her essence and joy are being recognised and celebrated by many in the pageant world. Mikayla is an inspiration to many and it just goes to show that we as a society need to start embracing and celebrating our differences.
Shine on, beautiful! The world needs more role models like you!