Ana Victoria Espino De Santiago: World’s first Down Syndrome lawyer

Ana Victoria Espino De Santiago, a young woman from Zacatecas, Mexico, has recently become the world’s first lawyer with Down Syndrome. 

She recently graduated with a degree in Law from the Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas (BUAZ). 

Born in 1999, Ana Victoria’s journey to this milestone is testament to what accommodations, accessibility and the right support systems can do for disabled people. 

From a very young age, Ana Victoria’s parents, Marisol and Jesús, instilled in her a deep love for education and the arts. They created a nurturing environment that allowed her to flourish and pursue her passions. 

This support system proved crucial as Ana Victoria navigated the challenges of an education system that was not equipped to meet her needs.

Determined to avoid the discrimination she might face in a traditional classroom, Ana Victoria completed her high school education online. She then enrolled at the Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas to study law. 

It was here that she encountered one of her greatest challenges: a legal education system unprepared for her specific needs. With the help of a dedicated shadow professor, known as a ‘maestra sombra,’ who provided personalised support, she went on with studies.

But even before Ana Victoria completed her law degree, she was making her mark as an advocate for disability rights. 

She actively participated in legislative forums, sharing her story and advocating for the inclusion of people with disabilities. Her contributions to these discussions were a vital part of her growing understanding of the legal field.

Ana Victoria, also an accomplished artist, has held several painting exhibitions since 2014, showcasing her talent at prestigious venues, including the lobby of the Congress of the Union in Mexico City. Her collection, titled “Desde mi cielo” (“From My Sky”), was met with acclaim.

Ana Victoria says her goal is not just personal achievement but to pave the way for others with disabilities to occupy decision-making spaces in society.

A fervent advocate for disability rights, she is using her platform to push for greater inclusion and disability representation in all sectors.