Being a self-advocate for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) has been one of the most meaningful parts of my life. My journey began with the belief that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and celebrated for who they are.
My love for pageants started when I made history as the first woman with Down syndrome to compete in a State Miss USA Pageant. That experience changed my life. It taught me confidence, courage, and the importance of representation. I wanted to show that beauty and leadership come in many forms, and that people with IDDs can achieve anything.
At the same time, I found another passion through Best Buddies, which creates friendships and opportunities for people with and without IDDs. Best Buddies showed me how inclusion begins with friendship and acceptance. I wanted to find a way to bring together my two loves — Best Buddies and pageants — to model what it means to be a true Best Buddy and celebrate confidence for all.
That’s how my idea for an inclusive Dreaming Big Without Limits Fashion Show was born. I organized a runway event where individuals with IDDs walked with their Best Buddies, showing style, pride, and friendship. The energy was amazing — families cheered, models smiled, and the community came together to celebrate inclusion.
The fashion show became more than just an event; it became a statement of empowerment. It showed that people with IDDs belong everywhere — on stages, in leadership, and in the spotlight.
Through this journey, I’ve learned that advocacy can be joyful, creative, and full of heart. My goal is to keep inspiring others to combine their passions with purpose, because when inclusion and confidence walk hand in hand, everyone shines.
My love for pageants started when I made history as the first woman with Down syndrome to compete in a State Miss USA Pageant. That experience changed my life. It taught me confidence, courage, and the importance of representation. I wanted to show that beauty and leadership come in many forms, and that people with IDDs can achieve anything.
At the same time, I found another passion through Best Buddies, which creates friendships and opportunities for people with and without IDDs. Best Buddies showed me how inclusion begins with friendship and acceptance. I wanted to find a way to bring together my two loves — Best Buddies and pageants — to model what it means to be a true Best Buddy and celebrate confidence for all.
That’s how my idea for an inclusive Dreaming Big Without Limits Fashion Show was born. I organized a runway event where individuals with IDDs walked with their Best Buddies, showing style, pride, and friendship. The energy was amazing — families cheered, models smiled, and the community came together to celebrate inclusion.
The fashion show became more than just an event; it became a statement of empowerment. It showed that people with IDDs belong everywhere — on stages, in leadership, and in the spotlight.
Through this journey, I’ve learned that advocacy can be joyful, creative, and full of heart. My goal is to keep inspiring others to combine their passions with purpose, because when inclusion and confidence walk hand in hand, everyone shines.