Japan, Kagoshima

Aya Iwamoto

Aya Iwamoto is from Japan.
She was born in 1973.

Aya Iwamoto studied history of English literature.
She completed her university degree in 1998, as the first woman with Down syndrome worldwide.

The President of the university said in a speech:

"That has to give hope and encouragement to other people with the same disability."

Aya Iwamoto travels around the world and gives lectures.
She campaigns for people with Down syndrome.
And she translates children's books into different languages.
For example English, Japanese and French.

Aya Iwamoto has a wish for the future.
She says:

"People have a shallow view and prejudice against Down syndrome in Japan now.
It's a pity.
Life is short, but precious.
That's why I won't give up my hopes and dreams.
I am grateful to the many people who helped me, and I want to say to my parents: 'Thank you for giving birth to me.'"