Η Mikayla Holmgren has just opened a new chapter for women with Down Syndrome, as not only has she won two Miss Minnesota pageants, but she is also the first to ever participate in an American Beauty Contest.
Holmgren is currently studying at Bethel University, working at the university's childcare center, ambassador of Best Buddies (an NGO that teaches people with mental and developmental difficulties) and, as she states, she loves to dance and be on stage.
Her decision to enter the Miss Minnesota pageant is a moving one as it has inspired many people suffering from the same syndrome. With the news of her participation circulating in the media, many mothers brought their children - who also suffer from Down syndrome - to watch her compete.
The director of the competition, Denise Wallace Heitkamp, handing over the award to Mikayla, said characteristically: "Every time you talk and dance, you make everyone smile." As he said, "Without selfishness and with great humility, you manage to overcome any obstacle."
Before the competition, Mikayla said she wants to pave the way for more women with developmental problems, so that they feel that they can participate in beauty and talent competitions. Apparently, he did it wonderfully.