“I like doing this because I know I can do it,” Myers said.
“And I’m not nervous.”
Myers is only 14 years old, but she already sees herself as a role model who inspires others to live their dreams.
For Myers, that dream is modeling.
She knows there aren’t many like her in the fashion industry, although that is changing.  Earlier this year, Victoria’s Secret featured a model with Down syndrome in a first for the brand.  Gucci has done the same.
Myers says she has loved dressing up since she was a toddler.  She decided to give modeling a boost after being inspired by the adults who paved the way.
Her mother, Stephanie, also played a role in that decision.
“She’s always so busy telling everyone how beautiful they are, and I just turned to her and said, ‘You’re beautiful too.’
In June, Myers became the first teenager with Down syndrome to model during Children’s Fashion Week in Toronto, taking the stage in a blue dress and tiara.  She is also believed to be the first Canadian model with Down syndrome to walk a runway during New York Fashion Week.
Monika Myers at New York Fashion Week (Source: Wanda Beauchamp Couture)
“I was wearing a beautiful dress.  Oh my God, it was so beautiful,” said Myers, who made her first trip to New York in October.
“It was orange.  My makeup was beautiful.  My hair was beautiful.  Was amazing.”
Monika Myers at New York Fashion Week
“They told her she’s very gifted and has a gift to bring to the population,” says Myers’ mom.
On Thursday night, Myers created an outfit by Indigenous designer Lesley Hampton at an event in Toronto’s Parkdale neighbourhood.
“I think it’s incredible to bring all aspects of diversity to the runway, including a beauty like Monika,” says Hampton.
“Imagine a society where we all feel accepted and we all feel included in beautiful art forms like fashion.”
Monika Myers poses during this year’s Fashion Art Toronto event.
Monika Myers, a model with Down syndrome, poses during this year’s Fashion Art Toronto event.
Myers would like to see more people with Down syndrome modeling and has started a campaign called “Brave and Beautiful” to spread a message about inclusion, confidence and believing in yourself.  She resonates with her fans.
Monika Myers has always loved dressing up.
“I think they like her story because it’s honest and real and she represents a minority that I think people often think can’t do things,” says Myers’ mother.
“It brings home to us to be strong and to pursue things that we don’t feel strong to do.”
Monika Myers is pictured when she was about four years old.
After walking runways in Toronto and New York, Myers would now like to try it in Paris.
“If you’re afraid to model, don’t be,” says Myers.