ShawndrĂ© Joshua Hans Geerman is a very familiar face in Aruba. He was born on June 20, 2003 and was diagnosed with ‘Down Syndrome’, specifically “trimosome 21′ meaning that he had the chromosome 21 gene three times, which no wonder he is so awesome. ShawndrĂ© had a very difficult heart condition and had to go to Houston Texas to undergo surgery, but through lots of prayers and unconditional faith in God his parents had, a miracle happened and it was not necessary for him to undergo the surgery at the end.
Despite his limitations ShawndrĂ© has been unstoppable. He attended different schools, from ABC daycare to School ‘Dunuman’ from his 6 to 16 years old and is currently following several courses at âMuchila Creativoâ since 2019. This school is dedicated to guide children with special needs. Here they are able to learn and develop their skills. They are even given the opportunity to do internships at different companies and practice what they have been learning. Recently, ShawndrĂ© managed to successfully complete the course of Basic Table Protocol & Etiquette F & B, which he is very proud of.
The road to acceptance wasnât always easy for ShawndrĂ©. Back in 2013 Mr. Eddy Ras (RIP), tennis instructor, took the challenge to teach ShawndrĂ© how to play tennis in order to help him develop his mobility. It was then that many opportunities presented for ShawndrĂ©. He soon started modelling, dancing, playing the drum and as any other regular teenager of his age he even started going to the gym to take care of his body.
ShawndrĂ© achieved many things throughout the years. He was chosen to appear on the Big Screen of Time Square in New York two times in a row in 2020 and 2021. He even had the opportunity to take part of the modelling show âBe Beautiful Be Yourselfâ which took place in Denver Colorado. He even got his picture taken with some famous celebrities such as Jamie Fox, Matt Dillon and John McGinley. He also modelled at several fashion shows in Aruba and Curacao. He took part in different video clips with local bands and was also part of a big Drummers show here in Aruba. So clearly anything he put his mind on he can do it.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
As I am growing my biggest desire is to remain being the good citizen that I am and continue being a great example for persons with physical or mental disabilities. I want to make a difference in their lives by showing them that despite any disability we are capable of doing anything.
What I like most about myself? :
I am a fighter. Where I am right now is so much better form where I used to be. I used to be very scared to be seen in public because many donât understand us or even bully us for the way we are. With the unconditional support of my parents and lots of prayers I was able to overcome that fear and become a great athlete, international model, dancer, drummer and a role model for persons as special as me.
What I do when I feel sad?
Whenever I feel sad I listen to gospel music and play my drum. Music brings joy and happiness to my heart and Mind.
Who is your best friend and why?
My parents are my best friend. They have been accepting me and loving me unconditionally. They are extremely proud of me and they never hide me from the public.
What is your message to the children of Aruba?
Never Give UP! Donât allow anyone tell you that you canât do it. Never allow anybody to stop you from doing what you want. If you have a dream or wish, just fight for it. When you have the right people on your side that believes in you and gives you the opportunity you deserve you will be able to achieve anything!
