Kate Grant, a literal model of the fashion variety but also a trailblazing role model for anyone who fears their disability might prevent them from reaching their full potential

The 23-year-old Tyrone native made history as the first-ever model with Down’s Syndrome to be signed to a modelling agency in Northern Ireland after she recently inked a deal with ACA Models.

Her signing is no surprise given the success she has enjoyed over the past couple of years. Her rise to fame began in 2018, following an appearance on the BBC Two documentary Role Model which followed Grant in her pursuit of a career in modelling.

Next came the opportunity to represent Northern Ireland in the Ultimate Beauty of the World beauty pageant which she went on to win, aged only 19 at the time. Since then, Grant has walked the catwalk at London Fashion Week, spoken about her experience at the UN on more than one occasion and worked as a brand ambassador for Benefit Cosmetics.