Meet the Hoghton teen with Down syndrome selected from over 2,000 entries to light up Times Square
Second time is most definitely a charm.
16-year-old Lola Jae appeared in the bright lights of Times Square yesterday as part of the annual National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) Times Square Video Presentation.
The one-hour video showed 500+ photographs and included children, teens, and adults with Down syndrome from all 50 states and 12 countries.
The Times Square Video presentation also kicked off the New York City Buddy Walk which takes place at the Naumburg Bandshell in Central Park.
The Buddy Walk is one of the most widely recognised public awareness programs for the Down syndrome community. The flagship Walk has taken place in New York City since 1995.
These collective images highlight individuals with Down syndrome in the most visible way - on two screens in the heart of Times Square.
Lola’s photograph was selected from more than 2,700 entries worldwide, and featured as part of the NDSS Times Square Video Presentation.
The New York trip will also be an extra-special celebration for Lola, who turned 16 this year.
She was also selected two years ago in the National Down Syndrome Society’s Times Square presentation, but unfortunately the family were unable to travel to New York to see it in person.
Speaking before their visit, mum Hayley said: “I’m delighted to say that Lola has been selected again!
“After missing the opportunity two years ago, it’s going to be quite an emotional moment for us to finally be there with her, particularly in such a milestone year.”
Founded in 1979, the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) empowers individuals with Down syndrome and their families by driving policy change, providing resources, engaging with local communities, and shifting public perceptions.