A nine-year-old schoolgirl with Down's Syndrome has become the latest face of luxury fashion brand Burberry after landing a dream modelling job that sees her appear in the company's spring/summer 2022 collection.
Roni Littman, 9, is far from camera shy and has already modelled for the likes of River Island, Asda George, and TK Maxx - but her latest career move marks the first time she has appeared in a collection for a high-end designer.
And Roni's mum Shelley, 46, couldn't be more proud of her daughter, whom she says has "blown all expectations out of the water" after doctors told her parents she would "never be able to do certain things" because of her diagnosis.
Shelley, from Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, said: "We were absolutely elated when Roni got the Burberry modelling job.
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"I am so proud of her - she has blown all expectations out of the water.
"When she was born, we were told she may not be able to walk or talk. But she has defied the odds and continues to break boundaries.
"She has achieved so much in such a short period of time.
"We didn't know Roni had Down's Syndrome until she was born.
"We were told she may never be able to do certain things and the doctors filled us with negativity. But she has proved everyone wrong."
Roni's mum also heaped praise on brands like Burberry who have chosen to encourage diversity and have become more inclusive with their advertisements.
"I am very impressed that high-end brands like Burberry are being inclusive as it is encouraging for other people with disabilities," she added, "there's no reason why children with disabilities shouldn't have these things too."
And while Roni - who has been signed with Zebedee Inclusive Talent Agency since 2017 - is a natural in front of the camera, she's also managed to pick up some other skills too - including skiing, which she has been doing since the age of five.
Shelley explained: "Roni did take a while to communicate clearly but she makes herself very much understood.
"She is a very cheeky, determined and feisty young lady. She has always loved the camera and entertaining people.
"She started walking at 17 months old and has become a very determined individual so I'm not surprised that she is excelling.
"Sometimes, it can be difficult for her as she takes longer to learn things but she never gives up.
"It is an honour and a privilege to have her in our lives.
"She learnt how to ski aged five and put her all into it."
And now that she's taking the fashion world by storm, Shelley hopes her daughter can help "inspire other disabled children" to follow their dreams no matter what.
She added: "My husband Jon and I are beyond excited to see what the future holds for Roni. We will do our best to help her achieve whatever path she wants to take in the future.
"We hope Roni can inspire other disabled children and adults to follow their dreams. Roni proves everything is achievable and don't let things get in your way."
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