Kids

5 Individuals with Down Syndrome that You Should Know!

by Luis Ribaya
October 30, 2024

Let’s celebrate National Down Syndrome Awareness Month by getting to know these notable persons and their achievements!

October is National Down Syndrome Awareness Month! It’s a time to recognize diversity and embody inclusivity for individuals of all abilities. These persons with Down Syndrome (DS) surely prove that the condition shouldn’t stop you from achieving your dreams. Well in fact, their achievements are a testament to the talent and creativity the persons with DS possess. Here are 5 persons with DS that you should know:

1. Zack Gottsagen

Zack Gottsagen is a Hollywood actor making numerous efforts to represent Down Syndrome on the big screen. His 2019 film, Peanut Butter Falcon, co-starring Shia LaBeouf has also been well received by both critics and audiences alike. He also made history in the 2020 Academy Awards being the first ever person with DS to present an award.

2. Pablo Pineda

Pablo Pineda is notable for being the first person with DS to obtain a university degree in Spain. After completing his diploma in Educational Psychology, he works as a teacher while working for the Spanish municipality of Malaga. Rather than a disability, he considers his condition as a “another personal characteristic.” He also played a lead role in the Spanish film Yo Tambien (Me Too), which garnered praise for bringing awareness and empowerment to persons with DS.

3. Colette Divito

Collette Divito started her own company “Collettey’s Cookies” after numerous businesses declined her work. Her Instagram has gained a massive following of over 50,000 followers. She also stays true to her advocacy and aims to hire more staff with disabilities.

4. Grace Strobel

Grace Strobel is a world-renowned fashion model and is one of the first persons with Down Syndrome to represent international brands such as Obagi Clinical, Marc Jacobs, and Allure. She is also a serious advocate for inclusion serving as a featured panelist on the Council of Fashion Designers America Diversity Webinar.

5. Lauren Potter

You may know Lauren Potter from famous shows such as Glee, Veep, and Switched at Birth. In line with her stance on disability rights, she also served on President Obama’s Committee for Intellectual Disabilities.

References:

https://learnbright.org/10-famous-people-with-down-syndrome