PAIRED FOR CHANGE, LOTS OF SOCKS CAMPAIGN AND WORLD DOWN SYNDROME DAY
“I was born with Down syndrome and I’m rocking life!”
Jessica joyfully exclaimed on a recent appearance on the morning segment of CP24 celebrating the Lots of Socks campaign and World Down Syndrome Day.
By: Janice Ronan
On the verge of her 25th birthday, Jessica Rotolo, is quickly becoming a household name. Already, she is a powerhouse – a Humber alum, published model, a dedicated advocate for inclusion, an actor, dancer, and visual artist.
Gifted with a passion for education and a heart of gold, Jessica thrives in her role as an early childhood education teaching assistant for Centennial Infant and Child Center. She is also the creator of Unique Greeting Cards and Posters, a Global Ambassador for Best Buddies International and the winner of the Lots of Socks worldwide design contest.
The United Nations General Assembly designated March 21st of each year as WDSD – World Down Syndrome Day to bring awareness to trisomy 21 (3.21), the medical terminology for Down syndrome. The #lotsofsocks campaign launched in 2013.
DSi – Down Syndrome international (based out of the UK) has been honored to be the champion of this day since its creation, hosting conferences at the United Nations in Geneva and New York.
The campaign exists to help raise awareness of Down syndrome, the idea is to sport colorful mismatched socks with the purpose to ignite interest and get conversations flowing. Thus, providing the opportunity for education on how we can all better support those with Down syndrome. This year’s theme is “With Us Not for Us”. DSi works globally and diligently to improve the quality of life for those with Down syndrome and their right to be included on a full and equal basis with others.
Jessica’s vibrant, stylish heart design was inspired by her painting entitled, ‘Love All of the Colors of the World’ and was chosen out of hundreds of entries worldwide. Over seventeen thousand pairs are now proudly being worn globally.
This year, WDSD was extra special with a celebration at Jessica’s alma mater, Heydon Park Secondary School in Toronto. Students participated in lively musical performances, speeches, and games. A catered lunch by Gusto Restaurant was enjoyed by all as well as a cake made by the students themselves. Chocollata – Gourmet Brigadeiros provided delicious favors and Contour by Getty Images photographer Nancy Kim of NSBKIM captured the memories. A day full of fun...however, it was the love from the community that was in abundance and really set the tone.
MP Nathaniel Erksine-Smith and MPP Mary-Margaret McMahon were in attendance. They are both committed to and work tirelessly to advocate for inclusion and equal opportunities for all. Minister Stephen Lecce was unable to attend but sent a personal video message to Jessica and the Heydon Park students. Celebrations continue well after WDSD as Nathaniel recently addressed the House of Commons in Ottawa acknowledging Jessica and World Down Syndrome Day.
Jessica’s impressive and extensive list of achievements does not stop there. She is a performer with DramaWay Arts, run by Executive Director and founder Danielle Strnad. DramaWay is a dynamic, inclusive arts program for individuals of all abilities. Their Annual Arts Showcase 2023 is set to take place June 3rd and 4th.
A definite fashion plate, Rotolo owns over two hundred dresses that spans over two closets. Betsey Johnson is her all-time favorite designer. ‘You can definitely find Betsey’s pieces in my wardrobe.’ Jessica happily professes.
You can catch a glimpse of her on the SS23 Fashion Art Toronto runways. Unstoppable, she is all set to grace the pages of numerous fashion magazines. Poised and ready for whatever is to come and has her sights set next for Startup Fashion Week and New York Fashion Week auditions.
Genuinely and instinctively, Rotolo is positioning herself as a global leader for change and inclusion and she is just getting started.
Jessica was born with Down syndrome, and she is rocking life!
Studio Photo Credits:
PHOTOGRAPHER: Liz Salzman | @lizsalzmanphoto
STUDIO: AMICA STUDIO | @amicastudio.to
PR | PRODUCTION MANAGER: Janice Ronan | @jjfoxy of @fashionfoundryofficialpr
CREATIVE DIRECTOR | STYLIST: Cassandra Elizabeth | @shopcassandraelizabeth
MODELS: Jessica Rotolo | @jessica.rotolo20 Danielle Strnad | @daniellesdramas | DramaWay
Saylah Strnad | @Phoenix.Latte Dorlean Rotolo Marnie Consky | Thigh Society
CLOTHING: Cassandra Elizabeth
MULTI-WEAR SHORTIES: @thighsociety
#LOTSOFSOCKS: Designed by Jessica Rotolo | @jessica.rotolo20
HAIR TEAM: Marca College | @marca_college @aletriii @foxanneroxannee @hair.by.franny @snazzysnipper @shyz_kreated_stylez MUA: Sasha H
Event Photos: Nancy Kim of NSBKIM