Jessica Jacinto, 22, is the Venezuelan model with Down syndrome who surprises the fashion industry with her poise, beauty and attitude. Her story inspires others like her to keep going and work hard to make her goals a reality.
So far, she has more than 49,000 followers on Instagram, who have seen her career take off and the way she breaks stigma around her condition. Without a doubt, a woman who deserves the world at her feet.
Jessica got into modeling at the age of 14. Her first beauty pageant was an exclusive event for people with Down syndrome, where her mother, Yanira Faride, noticed Jessi’s natural talent, who was comfortable and confident walking on stage.
After this experience, Jessica and her mother knocked on doors and relied on social networks to find an opportunity. Her effort paid off and Jessi was contacted by various local and international brands to be the main image and participate in some parades.
It all started with a Miss Down to which she was invited. I took it as an experience for her, but I saw that on stage she modeled without having had classes or any kind of experience and she performed very well.
– Yanira Faride, mother of Jessica
For me, being a model is like studying a career that you like, that you are really passionate about. Believe it or not, it takes dedication and innovation to improve. The moment I’m on the catwalk, I become another person. It’s almost as if someone else inside of me suddenly came out. I feel empowered.
– Jessica Hyacinth
But this is not all, Jessi also works as a brigade member in the Red Cross, attends a dance and skating academy and works hard for the rights of people with Down syndrome. Her intention is to break down the stigma around them and show that they are as capable as anyone else of achieving their own dreams.
Being a Red Cross brigade member is a very beautiful and educational experience, of which I am very proud. This project has shown me that I can do everything I set my mind to and carry out several activities at the same time. That is why I will not give up.
– Jessica Hyacinth