Puerto Rican model Sofia Jirau, who made her debut at New York Fashion Week, has called it a “dream come true” to become the first Victoria’s Secret model with Down syndrome.

Jirau, 25, who has been modelling for over two years, announced on Instagram, where she boasts 167,000 followers, that she once “dreamed of” becoming a Victoria’s Secret model.

She posted a photo of herself posing for the lingerie brand’s Love Cloud Collection, which she took part in with 18 other models, with the message: “One day I dreamed it, I worked on it, and today it became a dream come true. I can finally tell you my big secret… I am the first Victoria’s Secret model with Down syndrome!

“Thanks to all of you for always supporting me in my projects. Thanks to @victoriassecret for seeing me as a #SinLimites model and making me part of the Love Cloud Collection inclusion campaign. This is just the beginning, now it has happened!”

According to her website, the model and influencer, who once said she would love to meet her idol Jennifer Lopez, launched her online store named Alavett, a take on her favourite English phrase ‘I love it’, in 2019.

Jirau made her modelling debut at New York Fashion Week in February 2020.

At the time, she said: “I am proud as one of the few models with Down syndrome who has managed to participate in the important fashion event.

“Modelling in the United States was the beginning of conquering the dream I have had since an early age – to model on the most important runways in the world.”

Jirau said she also hopes to inspire others with the condition to reach their goals despite their daily challenges.