Valentina Guerrero

Valentina Guerrero was born in Miami Beach on September 16, 2011, and came with a little surprise: an extra chromosome. Her name freely translated to English means Brave Warrior. She taught her parents Juan Fernando and Ceceliz to focus on the positive aspects of life instead of the challenges, and inspired them to help change the perception of her condition. They realized the capacity of individuals born with Down syndrome to enlighten others through their experiences. Propelled by a parent’s love, Juan Fernando and Ceceliz launched their campaign through the fashion world by pairing Valentina with the renowned European fashion designer Dolores Cortés. At 9 months old, Valentina was chosen to represent the children’s collection DC Kids USA 2013 and became the first person with Down syndrome to serve as the main model for a major fashion brand.

Valentina has graced the covers of various publications including People Magazine. MTV Tr3s aired her story in a one hour episode as well as other national and international well renowned TV shows; in 2012 she was named one of the Top 10 Models under 16 sharing the list with Cindy Crawford’s daughter and Kate Moss’ sister; in 2013 she appeared on a giant screen in Times Square; with these platforms she has been able to raise thousands of dollars for various organizations. In 2014 the brand Little Cotton Dress designed a collection named Valentina alongside her parents, which will be sold for Valentine’s Day and 10% of the total profits will go to the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS).

Furthermore, Valentina received a letter from Nobel Prize nominee Lenín Moreno while he was the Vice President of Ecuador, stating that she is an inspiration to the country and will help change the image of Trisomy 21.

Over 200 articles have been published about her around the world, from Brazil, to Israel and Indonesia. Social media has welcomed her enthusiastically, one facebook post about her has garnered more than 2.3 million likes. In her official social pages she provides support and advice for families in different countries, and documents her life to show society that her designer gene is a gift. Valentina Guerrero is here to change the world, one smile at a time!