Mikayla was the brainstorm behind this fun fashion show seven years ago.

Mikayla brought Best Buddies to Minnesota in 2017, won Champion of the Year on 2021 and is a Global Ambassador, representing our state, who recently won the Spirit of Courage Award at the Best Buddies Leadership in July..

She will be alongside Shelby Hohneke, our Champion of the Year Candidate this year.

Kennedy Garcia is an Actress, model and Best Buddies Global Ambassador

Kennedy is best known for her heavily recurring role as Felicity in the long running soap opera Days of Our Lives. Starting out as a model, Kennedy was discovered by American Girl, becoming the first model with Down syndrome to work for the iconic brand. That lead to campaigns with Justice, Claire's, Disney, Instagram, Cardi B's 2023 McDonald's Super Bowl commercial, and many more.

Listed as one of the top 10 actors with Down syndrome, Kennedy has had roles in such shows as Fox's 9-1-1, The Executor, The Son and Sesame Street to name a few.

The short film Brownies, in which she has a guest star role, has been officially selected for the 2024 Diversity in Cannes Short Film Showcase and took home several awards including best cast.

Kennedy is currently in post production on two films: Saving Buddy Charles with Josh Sussman and Ariel Martin as well as Wish Watch with Matthew Von Der Ahe.

A sought after public speaker, Kennedy has spoken at over 100 venues nationwide about her journey with Down syndrome as well as how to be friends with people with disabilities.

As a cancer survivor, this young influencer gives back to her community by working with several nonprofits supporting both childhood cancer and Down syndrome.

When not on set, Kennedy enjoys spending time with friends and family and making the occasional TikTok.

Kiontis Gallion, also known as Kid Autistic, is a 24-year-old Wisconsin native and the first Global Ambassador for Wisconsin with a passion for advocacy and community service. Diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome at the age of four, Kiontis has dedicated his life to breaking down barriers and empowering others on the autism spectrum.

Kiontis also volunteers as a speech coach, where he mentors students and helps them build confidence in public speaking. Kiontis has also been a prominent voice in raising awareness about autism, having appeared on several news outlets, including Fox 6 News, Spectrum News, and TMJ4 News, where he has shared his personal experiences and insights into the autism spectrum.

In 2024, Kiontis was selected as one of the speakers at the Best Buddies Leadership Conference in Indiana, a major milestone in his journey as a public speaker and advocate. His message resonates with audiences, and he is excited about his role as a Best Buddies Champion, continuing to inspire others and raise awareness about the importance of inclusion and acceptance for all individuals, regardless of ability.

Through his work, Kiontis Gallion is making a lasting impact on his community and the lives of those around him, and he remains a tireless advocate for individuals with autism and other disabilities.

I LOVE Best Buddies, a positive organization that brings all kinds of people together, opens the door for inclusion, offers leadership opportunities, and fun experiences.

Over the last 9 years I have been a participant, individual and team top fundraiser, committee member, model, speaker, and State Ambassador. I'd love your support!