Personal Details :
- Full Name: Madeline Stuart
- Date of Birth: November 13, 1996
- Place of Birth: Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Nationality: Australian
- Disability: Down syndrome
- Height: Approximately 160 cm (5 ft 3 in)
- Hair Color: Red/Strawberry Blonde
- Eye Color: Blue
- Languages: English
- Mother: Rosanne Stuart (also her manager and advocate)
- Profession: Professional Model, Fashion Designer, Disability Advocate
- Fashion Label: 21 Reasons Why by Madeline Stuart
Social Media Presence :
- Instagram: @madelinesmodelling_
- Facebook: Madeline Stuart official
- Twitter: @madelinesmodelling_
Career Overview :
Madeline Stuart, born in Brisbane, Australia, is widely recognized as the world’s first professional model with Down syndrome to achieve international acclaim. Her modeling journey began in 2014 after attending a fashion show, which inspired her to pursue modeling. With strong determination and support from her mother, Rosanne Stuart, Madeline underwent a transformative fitness journey and lost over 20 kilograms. Her “before and after” photos went viral online in 2015, quickly attracting global attention and launching her modeling career.
That same year, Madeline made her runway debut at New York Fashion Week (NYFW), becoming the first model with Down syndrome to walk in the event. Her appearance was widely celebrated as a breakthrough in inclusive fashion. Following NYFW, she modeled in major cities around the world, including Paris, London, Milan, Dubai, Shanghai, and Los Angeles. She walked in over 100 runway shows globally, including high-profile events such as Runway Dubai and Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week China.
Beyond modeling, Madeline launched her own fashion label, “21 Reasons Why by Madeline Stuart,” which debuted during NYFW in 2017. The name honors both her career mission and the extra 21st chromosome that characterizes Down syndrome. She has been the face of campaigns for brands like EverMaya, Manifesta, GlossiGirl, and others that support body positivity and diversity.
Madeline uses her platform to advocate for disability inclusion and has worked with numerous nonprofits and advocacy campaigns. She has been recognized with several honors, including the Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award and nominations for Australian of the Year and the Pride of Australia medal. Forbes and Vogue have both highlighted her as a game-changer in redefining beauty standards.
Personal Life & Interests :
Madeline Stuart was born on November 13, 1996, in Brisbane, Australia. She was diagnosed with Down syndrome at birth, and her mother, Rosanne Stuart, has been her biggest supporter and manager throughout her career. From an early age, Madeline showed a love for dance, fitness, and performance, and she developed a strong sense of determination to live life on her own terms.
Outside of modeling, Madeline is passionate about healthy living, sports, and traveling the world. She enjoys swimming, playing basketball, and spending time with her friends and family. Her bond with her mother is especially strong, and together they’ve built a career that challenges stereotypes and promotes inclusivity.
Madeline also actively participates in charity work and serves as an ambassador for organizations that support people with disabilities. She regularly speaks at events to inspire others and promote body positivity, independence, and equal opportunities for all. Her positive attitude, confidence, and courage have made her a beloved role model for millions around the world.
Net Worth :
There are no publicly disclosed estimates of Madeline Stuart’s net worth as of 2025. Although she has achieved international recognition and success—walking over 100 runway shows, launching her own fashion label, and serving as an advocate—no reliable financial information is available.
Awards & Achievements :
- Named the number-one voice for diversity in fashion by Forbes in 2017.
- Received the Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award from the Global Down Syndrome Foundation in 2018.
- Awarded Model of the Year at the 2016 Melange Fashion Show in San Francisco.
- Nominated multiple times for Pride of Australia and Young Australian of the Year Awards between 2015 and 2017.
- Serves as an honorary ambassador for nonprofits including Kulture City, Inside Outside Dance Ensemble, and Special Olympics NYC.
Fun Facts :
Madeline Stuart’s modeling journey began in a very personal way—after attending a fashion show with her mother, she declared, “Mum, me model.” This powerful moment sparked her transformation and led to a viral social media post in 2015 that amassed over 7 million views in just one week.
To prepare for modeling, Madeline committed to a rigorous fitness routine and lost over 20 kilograms. She began training six days a week, including gym workouts and dance, and also participates in sports such as cricket and basketball through the Special Olympics.
She holds the distinction of walking in New York Fashion Week for six consecutive seasons and has modeled in Paris, London, Dubai, and Shanghai. Madeline and her mother maintain a heartwarming ritual—they celebrate each NYFW appearance by sharing a chicken pot pie at the same diner in New York City.
Madeline also created her own fashion label, “21 Reasons Why,” a name that honors the extra 21st chromosome that defines Down syndrome. She uses her platform to push for greater inclusivity in the fashion industry and remains committed to showing that people with disabilities deserve the same opportunities as anyone else.
Beyond modeling, Madeline enjoys dancing, traveling, and connecting with her large fanbase across Instagram and Facebook. She continues to be a global role model for body positivity, determination, and breaking boundaries.