Bionic model Rebekah Marine took to the catwalk at New York Fashion week as part of a presentation by FTL Moda that showcased models with disabilities. 28-year-old Marine, who was born without a right forearm, walked the catwalk with her bionic arm, an i-limb Quantum prosthetic.
As a full-time model, Marine continues to break boundaries in the fashion world and is also a inspirational speaker. Although she is one of the most renowned amputees in the fashion world now, Marine has told Mashable that making a path for herself in the modelling industry had not been easy.
Being a model with a disability has been extremely difficult over the past couple years, she admitted. Agencies often wont even look at my portfolio. But Ive come to realise its all about finding your niche. Ive accepted that most clients may not want to work with me based on my disability.
The bi-annual runway show also saw 18-year-old Madeline Stuart take to the catwalk, who made history by becoming the second model with Down syndrome to walk in fashion week. Stuarts first look was a multi-coloured silk halter top and shorts and her second was a one shoulder evening gown with fringe detail.
The FTL Moda show is held in conjunction with the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation and Models of Diversity, in an effort to increase diversity in the fashion industry.
