In a powerful celebration of visibility, empowerment, and representation, Ellie Goldstein, model, actress, and advocate, has become the face of Mencap – including its retail shops across England – just in time for Learning Disability Week 2025. Known for making history in the fashion world, Ellie is now helping Mencap spotlight an equally important message: that people with learning disabilities deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated.
From Vogue to the high street: Ellie Golstein’s new mission
At just 23, Ellie Goldstein has already made headlines across the globe. She broke boundaries by becoming the first person with Down’s syndrome to appear on the cover of Vogue, and has worked with iconic brands like Nike and Gucci. But this week, she’s turning heads in a new setting: the windows of Mencap’s 32 charity shops across England.
Ellie’s latest modelling campaign showcases vibrant, affordable outfits sourced from Mencap’s own shops – a celebration of sustainable fashion and inclusive visibility. As part of this campaign, shoppers and passers-by will spot Ellie beaming in colourful looks that promote both eco-conscious choices and representation.
Reacting to her photos, Ellie said: “I love how the photos have turned out, I look so cool in all the lovely outfits! It’s really exciting to see myself in the shop windows. It means a lot to me to be part of Learning Disability Week and to show what people with learning disabilities can achieve – follow your dreams!”
Why learning disability representation matters: the power of being seen
The theme of this year’s Learning Disability Week is “Do You See Me?” – a poignant question that underscores the continued marginalisation faced by many people with learning disabilities. With 1.5 million people in the UK living with a learning disability, Mencap’s campaign aims to ensure these individuals feel seen, heard, and valued.
Ellie’s presence in public-facing campaigns is vital. According to recent research conducted by Mencap and Censuswide:
- 77% of people in Britain could not name a public figure with a learning disability.
- Only 23% could identify someone – such as Ellie, as a person with a learning disability in the public eye.
By fronting the Mencap retail campaign, Ellie challenges these statistics directly – putting representation into action and encouraging others to look beyond stereotypes.
Ellie Goldstein: a proud Mencap Myth Buster
Ellie is not just a model – she’s also a proud Mencap “Myth Buster”. This initiative brings together people with learning disabilities who are working to challenge misconceptions and highlight what’s possible with the right support, inclusion, and belief.
As a Myth Buster, Ellie plays a pivotal role in reshaping public perception and breaking down the barriers that people with learning disabilities face in everyday life – from employment and education to healthcare and visibility in media.
Jon Sparkes, Chief Executive of Mencap, said: “Learning Disability Week is an opportunity for us all to celebrate the 1.5 million people across the UK with a learning disability and what they bring to our communities and society.
“This Learning Disability Week we’re thrilled to launch our Myth Buster Ellie as the face of our Mencap shops. Representation matters – and these pictures go to the heart of the work we do at Mencap every day, to ensure people with a learning disability are seen for who they are, not for their disability.”
Learning Disability Week: how you can get involved
Whether you’re new to Learning Disability Week or a long-time supporter, there are many meaningful ways to participate and help build a more inclusive society. Here are some ways you can make a difference:
- Read and Learn – Explore Mencap’s website to read the inspiring stories of Ellie and other Myth Busters. Education is the first step toward understanding and inclusion.
- Volunteer – Your time can change lives. Volunteer with Mencap to support people with learning disabilities in your community.
- Campaign – Raise your voice! Get involved in Mencap’s ongoing campaigns that fight for equal rights and challenge discrimination.
- Donate – Support the work Mencap does by making a donation. Every pound helps provide essential services, education, and advocacy.
- Visit Mencap’s Learning Disability Week hub to learn more.
Celebrating visibility, smashing stereotypes
Ellie Goldstein’s collaboration with Mencap is more than just a photoshoot – it’s a bold statement about inclusion, ambition, and dignity. In a society where people with learning disabilities are often overlooked or underestimated, campaigns like this are crucial.
By stepping into the spotlight – from high fashion runways to charity shop posters – Ellie proves that visibility leads to empowerment. Her vibrant presence across Mencap’s stores is a testament to what can happen when we stop defining people by their disabilities and start seeing their potential.
As Ellie herself puts it: “Follow your dreams!”
You can follow Ellie Goldstein on Instagram.
Visit the Mencap website to learn more about the support it offers for people with learning disabilities, and follow Mencap on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.