A young girl with Down syndrome has captured the hearts of the audience as she stole the spotlight at a fashion show during which she appeared on the catwalk as a model.

4-year-old Francesca Rausi smiled from ear to ear as she walked down the stage at New York Fashion Week.

The little girl from Malta was joined by Madeline Stuart, a 23-year-old Australian who rose to fame as she became the first-ever catwalk model with Down syndrome.

Years ago, Madeline was commended for challenging outdated beauty standards as she bravely took to the catwalk to share her passion for modeling.

As the 4-year-old girl’s mum hopes, Francesca will follow Madeline’s example and continue to raise awareness about people with Down syndrome.

“Francesca has been modeling since she was very young. She loves it and was the first toddler in Malta to take part in a modeling competition and won junior top model,” 43-year-old Michelle said in an interview with Metro.

As the proud mother added, her daughter loves modeling and has previously won the title of the ‘Best Cutie Little Model.’

Michelle has also claimed that she can see “happiness in her [daughter’s] eyes” every time she takes to the catwalk.

Speaking of the New York Fashion Week’s catwalk designed to shatter the barriers and be more inclusive of people with disabilities, organizer Tiziana Randisi said the charity event is a huge step forward for those who are different.

While young Francesca is just starting out her modeling career, Madeline is already a renowned model who walked for plenty of designers, including Tommy Hilfiger, during the recent show.

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