Dit is Enya: het leukste meisje op Instagram
And you want to follow her
Almost twenty percent of the population has some form of limitation, but why don't you see them on social media? That was the question five years ago from Enya (28) and her sister Céline (26). That's why they started the account @downsyndrome_queen and are loved by many worldwide, and we understand that of course. On Instagram and TikTok, they share videos that are viewed by thousands of people and they are a great inspiration. She is no different, she is who she is, and she is beautiful. So I spoke with Enya (and her sister) about her dreams, her favorite place in Paris (she really loves going there) and her favorite makeup product.
Last year was an amazing year for you, but what was your absolute highlight?
If I have to mention one highlight, it is my contribution to the Barbie book ‘’My Barbie Story’’, which is sold worldwide. Standing among such inspiring people feels like a huge milestone and honor. But also that I have been officially named a ‘ChangeMaker’. There are only fifty people worldwide (!) who have received this title, and I am incredibly proud of that. In this way, I hope to make an impact, inspire people, give confidence, and further enrich the world of diversity and inclusion.
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What makes the sister bond between you and your sister so strong?
Simple: unconditional love. Our bond is so strong because of the unconditional love we have for each other. We always support each other, love each other, laugh, cry, and are each other's biggest cheerleaders. It is a connection that transcends everything.
What characterizes your makeup look?
My go-to makeup consists of eyebrows, blush, highlighter, and of course lip gloss – preferably shiny pink. That lip gloss is indeed my signature look and adds something extra to every outfit.
If you could only choose one beauty product, which product would that be?
Even though lip gloss is my signature look, I would go for eyebrow tint – I won't leave the house without colored eyebrows. But not to mention my moisturizing cream, which is also indispensable. I always have it with me because we want to stay hydrated, always!
You have grown very big on Instagram and TikTok in a short time, how does it feel for you to have so many followers?
For me, the number of followers does not feel like a number, but like a large group of friends who are very dear to me. It always touches me how many people take the time to view my photos/videos, respond to me, and share their stories with me. And on my birthday, for example, when so many people congratulate me, it moves me every time. That involvement and support mean a lot to me. I am incredibly grateful to everyone, very aware, and it is so special that we have this community.
Who is your biggest idol and why does this person inspire you so much?
My biggest idol is my sister. She is my role model and my everything. She has taught me so much, she helps me and supports me in everything I do. I am grateful that we get to do this together and have each other.
What dream do you still want to realize?
It is my mission to promote diversity and inclusion, both online and offline and outside my own platforms. This doesn't always have to be through a story, but can also be as a model. In 2021, I was on the cover (of Glamour) as the first person with Down syndrome worldwide – that was a dream come true and of course a huge milestone in history! The response was amazing, even in America, Japan, and many more countries, it was in the news. And I have only received positive reactions. It would be so beautiful if people with limitations get a more fixed face. So I hope for even more visibility in the fashion world, like photoshoots and maybe even a catwalk. I have already done several studio and outdoor shoots, and I find this mega fun. Besides magazines, I also have many brands I dream of collaborating with. Think of luxury designers and other big A-brands. All of this is part of my biggest dream: spreading diversity and inclusion. Because there are still so many people and so many doors to open. There has already been a huge difference from 6 years ago, but we are still at the beginning. There are still so few people with limitations visible.
What is your favorite place in Paris?
L’Avenue is absolutely my favorite place. The food is delicious, the atmosphere is fantastic, and I always enjoy seeing all the stylish outfits that pass by. A real Paris moment!
What is the nicest compliment you have ever received via Instagram?
“Thanks to you, I feel welcome in this world.” I’m crying!! This is what we do this for. To show that everyone belongs and that diversity is beautiful.
Céline, Enya's sister, helped answer the questions.
