Challenging Stereotypes for 10 Years
DECADE is the 10th instalment of a powerful collaboration between photographer Hilary Gauld and the Waterloo Wellington Down Syndrome Society (WWDSS), celebrating a decade of this globally recognized series, challenging stereotypes and advocating for authentic representation of individuals with Down syndrome.
DECADE: The Documentary
Set for release on October 27th, 2024, during Down Syndrome Awareness Month, the DECADE documentary highlights the profound impact of Gauld’s work, featuring 62 individuals aged 1 to 36, showcasing their diverse life experiences.
Produced by Gauld and Digital Sabbath Film Company, DECADE captures the journey of Gauld, WWDSS, and three families across three generations, reflecting on the progress made in mainstream media representation and the growing visibility of the Down syndrome community.
Watch the Trailer
Hilary Gauld
I believe deeply in the power of a photograph. To change and shift perceptions. To contribute positively and to honour individuals in society. To grow our understanding of humanity. To tell stories.
Over the past decade we have created hundreds of images to close the gap in authentic representation of those with Down syndrome in mainstream media. A decade ago very little imagery existed in this space. I am honoured to have had the opportunity to work with babies, children, teens and adults in Canada to better tell the stories of those with Down syndrome in all areas of life; home, school, work, hobbies; in friendship and in love in a more authentic and ethical way.
DECADE is a celebration of this work and a time to reflect on all of the positive changes. It is also a time to think of the future and the ways in which those with Down syndrome can continue to live meaningful lives through employment and through connections to their communities.
Digital Sabbath Film Company is an award winning production company led by director Kyle Sawyer and producer Katie Billo.
The company was established in 2021 with their short documentary series “Business Unusual”, which went on to be streamed internationally aboard Air Canada flights. Their signature short doc storytelling style has brought emotional stories to life for collaborators and clients like Canada Post, Def Jam Records, Vintage Black Canada, St. Mary’s General Hospital, University of Guelph, Purolator, and many others, and their films have received festival acclaim across North America.
Kyle and Katie met Hilary while filming “She Is Your Neighbour” and jumped at the opportunity to collaborate on a documentary for the 10th anniversary of the WWDSS calendar series.
DECADE Gala
Join us for a special celebration of the 10th anniversary of the WWDSS calendar series, with our exciting keynote speaker, Madison Tevlin, the premier screening of the DECADE documentary, a photo exhibit and a hall of vendors. We can't wait to share this year's calendar with you!
Speakers
Madison Tevlin was born with Down syndrome, though she’ll rightly tell you it’s the least interesting thing about her. She has dedicated her life to dismantling the stigmas associated with Down syndrome, proving from a young age that it does not define her capabilities, and that we all thrive when we reduce stigmas and lift each other up.
Her extensive credits include notable appearances on the television show “Mr. D,” and hosting her talk show “Who Do You Think I Am.” She received praise for a standout performance in “Champions,” a film directed by Bobby Farrelly and starring Woody Harrelson. Madison graced the red carpet as a host at the Canadian Screen Awards, where she also made history as the first person with Down syndrome to be nominated for Best Host in a Talk Show or Entertainment News category.
Beyond her on-screen accomplishments, Madison is an active participant in initiatives that promote inclusivity. She is a member of Best Buddies International and has walked the runway for the Knix Confidence Tour and the Be Beautiful, Be Yourself Fashion Show. Her voice resonated deeply at the “Dear Mom” conference in Laguna Beach, where she served as the keynote speaker, and later in the year was honoured by the Global Down syndrome Foundation with the Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award in 2023 for her contributions to the community.
Through her speeches, performances, and engagements, Madison Tevlin inspires audiences globally, demonstrating unwaveringly that she is much more than her diagnosis—she is a true superstar changing the world one speech, one role, and one advocacy moment at a time.
Moses Latigo Odida is a Ugandan-born filmmaker with a passion in promoting human flourishing through the visual medium. Through his academic work, travel, and life experiences, he has developed a keen awareness of local and global realities that complicate people's lives. Moses started Kigaana Productions Inc., a production company to tell unique stories that are often underrepresented. Fittingly, the word 'kigaana' means 'storytelling' in his Japadhola mother tongue from Uganda. To date, he has produced a wide range of projects focussing on issues like mental health, refugee crises, systemic racism, personal development, and community flourishing. Most notable of these are 'The School To Prison Pipeline In Ontario' and a documentary series entitled 'Down: Canada's Black Caregivers. In 202 Moses and his wife Jill were blessed with the birth of their daughter Selah, who was born with Down Syndrome.
Heather Avis is a New York Times bestselling author, an award-winning podcaster, a public speaker, and an advocate for Down syndrome. She is the founder and Chief Visionary Officer of The Lucky Few, an advocacy organization dedicated to shouting worth, shifting narratives, and creating inclusive spaces where everyone belongs. For over a decade, Heather has led this effort, reimagining what it looks like when we embrace our differences.
Heather’s advocacy journey began in 2008 when she and her husband, Josh, adopted their daughter Macyn, who has Down syndrome. Overcoming initial fears, Heather discovered the profound gift of life with Macyn. She started sharing their story on a blog, which grew into the popular Instagram account @theluckyfewofficial.
Heather lives in Southern California with her husband, their three children, Macyn, Truly, and August, and their two Goldendoodles, Maeby and George Michael. When she's not writing or speaking, Heather enjoys sharing everyday moments with her family, traveling, karaoke, and hosting a good happy hour with her friends.
Gala Vendors
- Adelle Purdham
- Bath Beautiful by Telisa
- BU Candles
- CDSS
- Community of Hearts Guelph
- Day Maker Coffee Roasters
- DSAO
- Extend-A-Family
- Hooligan
- J.O.E.
- KW Habilitation
- Live and Learn Guelph
- Love Bird by Anu
- Natalie Stevanus
- Our Studio (WWDSS)
- Splashy Designs By Evan
- Sweet Spring
- The Raw Carrot
- Waterloo Region Family Network
- WWDSS
“I want the community to know there are resources available to employers who want to learn how to hire, train and onboard employees with disabilities. I very much wish to see increased acknowledgment from employers regarding the capabilities of individuals with Down syndrome. I believe the community will respond positively by supporting businesses that demonstrate a commitment to diversity and inclusivity.”
Associate Producers
Huge thanks to our generous donors! Their support has been crucial in making this documentary possible and bringing these vital stories to life. We are deeply grateful for their commitment to our project and our community.