Cora absolutely loves modelling ...she’s sending a positive message
Down’s syndrome girl in fashion ads
YOUNG Cora Bishop is one of the lovely new faces of a River Island campaign featuring children with disabilities.
The six-year-old with Down’s syndrome is among six youngsters starring in the “labels are for clothes” online promotion.
The others, aged between three and 10, have a range of disabilities including cerebral palsy, hyper mobility and sight issues.
The fashion chain said it wants to “celebrate individuality” with the campaign marking its 30th anniversary.
Cora’s parents Sheryl and Daniel hope it will help to change perceptions of people with disabilities. Sheryl from Gwersyllt, Wrexham, said: “We want her to have as many opportunities as she can and help send a positive message.
“There is more representation for people with disabilities in the media but I still don’t think it’s been enough.
“We don’t see the range of disabilities. People still have a lot to learn and we need to get the positive side of Down’s syndrome out there. I’m hoping people will start seeing more of a positive message from campaigns like this one.” Cora took part in a photoshoot in London as well as a video campaign running on YouTube, Video on Demand and social media. It was one of her first modelling assignments since signing with Zebedee Management, an agency in Sheffield that specialises in working with people with disabilities. Sheryl said: “She loves having her photo taken and having her hair done. She associates being a model with having a fun day out. “Cora is bubbly, funny and cheeky. She’s a typical six-year-old who is in a mainstream school. We’ll always support her in whatever she wants to do. She makes us so proud every day.” River Island said: “We launched the kids’ campaign with a carefully curated cast of kids. All share their desire to have fun, which you can see through their unique personalities. “The models were selected to reflect the diversity of our customers and celebrate the ethos that being different is more than OK.”