A woman with Down’s Syndrome has become the first to compete in a Miss USA state beauty pageant.
Mikayla Holmgren entered the Miss Minnesota pageant this year after winning the Miss Amazing Minnesota pageant for people with disabilities.
The 22-year-old emerged victorious over the weekend too, leaving the pageant with the Spirit of Miss USA award.
She also received a standing ovation from the audience.
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Traditionally, beauty pageants are rarely celebrated for the diversity of their contestants, but Mikayla has made history by being the first woman with Down’s Syndrome to compete in the Miss USA contest.
Upon being presented with award, executive state director Denise Wallace Heitkamp told the dance enthusiast:
“You make people smile every time you talk, cheer, smile, and dance. You exude the spirit of Miss USA by always being true to yourself and putting others first.
“You have selflessness, humility, and the ability to overcome obstacles with a smile on your face and excitement in your heart.”
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Following the pageant, Mikayla took to her Instagram page to share some photos of the experience.
She also thanked friends and fans for coming to support her
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Images via Mikayla Holmgren Instagram.
