It’s 2019 and the world’s standards for beauty have drastically changed in the last few years. Beauty in 2019 is diverse and companies like Gillette Venus and Benefit Cosmetics are catching on.
That’s why Benefit Cosmetics has made Kate Grant, a 20-year-old model with Down syndrome, one of their new brand ambassadors.
The makeup company told TODAY that they “instantly fell in love” after watching a video about her journey to become Ireland’s first model with Down syndrome. Grant went on to win the 2018 Teen Ultimate Beauty of the World pageant which made her the first pageant winner with Down syndrome, according to Daily Mail.
“Her amazing energy was so infectious and we were captivated by her incredible zest for life and determination,” Benefit Cosmetics said in a statement. “She embodied everything we stand for as a brand so we knew we had to find a way to work with her.”
Grant was selected to promote the brand’s new Roller Liner Eyeliner in social media ads.
The company said their hope that Grant’s ads will show people “that beauty and makeup shots can absolutely feature people from all walks of life.”
Grant was among four “wing women” chosen to promote their eyeliner line.
“This week has been amazing,” Grant wrote on Instagram, “Make sure you all get this amazing liner!”
The response from the internet was overwhelmingly positive.
“Love this model!! I will now try the liner! I’ve never used your product before but now I’m inspired to. Thank you @benefitcosmeticsuk for celebrating all beauty and diversity!!” one person said on Instagram.
“As the mum of a child with Down syndrome, I can’t tell you how much it means to us that you have featured this beautiful girl!” said another. “Thank you so very much for your awesome gesture of inclusiveness, hope to see more of Kate.”
Grant’s mother, Deidre, said that her daughter’s goal is to inspire people with disabilities to follow their dreams.
“She is paving the way for people coming behind her,” she told Metro. “Kate is aware of that and wants to spread awareness about inclusion for people with disabilities and that is what she has done from the very start. She has a great drive to be a supermodel.”
Grant and her fellow “Bene babes” are featured in the campaign’s Wing Women video. Check it out below.
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