Down Syndrome South Africa teamed with Intathakusa Down Syndrome Support Group together with a local business, in celebration of the National Down Syndrome Day in eMalahleni.

Held on October 18, the event was filled with fun and a fashion show where people with Down Syndrome took the centre stage in their stunning outfits.

Celebrated officially on October 20, the National Down Syndrome Awareness Day is dedicated to honouring individuals with Down Syndrome and celebrating their unique strengths, abilities, and accomplishments.

Down Syndrome, also known as Trisomy 21, is the most common genetic condition, caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21. While it can affect physical and cognitive development, it does not define a person.

According to the host’s representative, Nonhlanhla Jacobs, the true stars of the day were the children and adults with Down Syndrome and intellectual disabilities, who lit up the stage with confidence and joy.

Their presence reminded everyone of the importance of celebrating and supporting them.

In her speech, Nonhlanhla thanked the guardians of those living with Down Syndrome, quoting a bible verse in support of her statement.

“If you are sitting here assuming that the devil did something to your child for them to end up like this, then you are wrong. God allowed it to be like that because he is the only person who can decide what happens inside your womb,” said Nonhlahla. She further quoted from the scripture of Jeremiah 1:5, “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you, and before you were born, I set you apart and appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”

Nonhlanhla gave special thanks to their sponsors, highlighting that they all made the celebration a successful one.

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