Josefa da Silva debuted her autumn/winter 2016 collection at the FTL Moda presentation as part of New York Fashion Week today, and it was a major step for diversity.
The runway show included Madeline Stuart, the world’s most famous model with Down's syndrome, alongside amputee models Rebekah Marine and Gianna Schiavone - who walked the runway together.
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Rebekah Marine and Gianna Schiavone
28-year-old Marine, who was born without a right forearm, started modelling four years ago when she was fitted for a prosthesis - an i-limb quantum prosthetic hand, one of the most advanced in the world.
She has since dedicated herself to a career in modelling, even after years of rejection from agencies that wouldn't look past her disability.
![josefa da silva]()
Madeline Stuart
The show also marked 18-year-old Shaw's second appearance on a NYFW catwalk.
This has been one of her many recent accomplishments in the past year - including completing a triathlon and being the first professional model with Down's syndrome to be the face of a cosmetic brand.
View the full collection in our gallery below:
The runway show included Madeline Stuart, the world’s most famous model with Down's syndrome, alongside amputee models Rebekah Marine and Gianna Schiavone - who walked the runway together.
28-year-old Marine, who was born without a right forearm, started modelling four years ago when she was fitted for a prosthesis - an i-limb quantum prosthetic hand, one of the most advanced in the world.
She has since dedicated herself to a career in modelling, even after years of rejection from agencies that wouldn't look past her disability.
The show also marked 18-year-old Shaw's second appearance on a NYFW catwalk.
This has been one of her many recent accomplishments in the past year - including completing a triathlon and being the first professional model with Down's syndrome to be the face of a cosmetic brand.
View the full collection in our gallery below:
SEE ALSO:
17 Quotes On Why Diversity In Fashion And Beauty Matters
Model With Bionic Arm Walking At #NYFW: 'I'm Nervous But In A Good Way'
5 Beauty Bloggers With Disabilities You Need To Follow