A woman with Down syndrome was able to prove all the naysayers wrong by not only completing law school, but setting her sights even higher for her next goal.
Becoming a lawyer isn’t easy, that is a bit of a given but studying law and becoming a lawyer can be even more challenging if you have learning difficulties.
Difficult, yes, impossible no and newly qualified lawyer Ana Victoria Espino De Santiago is a testament to that fact.
The 25-year-old woman, from Mexico, is believed to be the first lawyer with Down syndrome in her city of Zacatecas – but is also believed to be the first in all of Latin America.
Born in Guadalupe, Zacatecas, Ana received her law degree in July from Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas and has big plans for the future.
Ana Victoria Espino De Santiago has qualified to become a laywer (NTR TV/YouTube)
Speaking to NTR TV, Ana said: “I really like law for defending people with disabilities and people’s rights and defending my personal rights.
“[To] help people with disabilities, help those who do not have a voice, because that is why I am a lawyer.”
It isn’t just law Espino intends to practice and hints that in addition to working as an advocate for disabled rights, she may try her hand at politics.
She added: “I see myself being a local representative, I am passionate about the law and I want to pave the way so that all people who live with a disability can occupy decision-making spaces, because our condition does not silence our voice, will and ability to contribute to improving our state.”
While the internet can certainly be a harsh and brutal place, many people on social media have been commending Ana for her achievement.
The young woman wants to do more than just practice law in the future (NTRTV/YouTube)
One user wrote: “Before the trolls arrive, I must say this is impressive.My friends in law school already are struggling as it is.
“I can’t think of a law program that goes easy on anyone. To do this, on top of having a cognitive disability is actually incredibly f**king impressive. Good for her, I hope she can use her degree to inspire others in similar situations to do great things.”
“Congrats on her . More dedicated and bigger ambition than many. I wish her well,” another wrote.
And a third commented: “I’m proud of her and her support system…This is quite an accomplishment. People with Down’s can have intellectual disabilities ranging from mild to severe.”
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