Lovely Leisel's Passion Down syndrome hasn't stopped me being a girl boss

The make-up consultant is charming clients with her 'can-do' attitude.

With an infectious grin, Leisel Shepherd will tell you that her main loves in life are her mum, make-up and making videos for social media. And she now gets to work with all three every day!

Defying doctor’s “expectations” for a bleak future, the 20-year-old has Down syndrome, but her developmental delays haven’t stopped her from going into business as a Nutrimetics consultant, serving up skincare tips to the many customers she’s become a hit with.

“This job has been life-changing for Leisel,” says mum Brenda, 53, who works alongside her in a supportive role from their home in Red Beach, north of Auckland. “It’s boosted her confidence, improved her speech and it’s been a safe way to try and give her independence out in the community with other adults.

“She’s blossomed. We answer emails together and she’s learning to put the orders into the computer. There’s been no negative feedback. Customers have only commented on how bright and enthusiastic she is.”

“Don’t forget fun,” interjects energetic Leisel.

“Yes, and she adores doing live selling videos too – you never know what random tangent she’ll go off on, but it’s entertaining. Her humour and joy for life melts my heart every day. I’m so proud of her.”

“I’m proud of you too Mum!” enthuses Leisel, who is the first sales consultant with this type of condition to work for the international beauty company.

“Neither of us had done anything like this before, so it’s a big learning curve for both of us, but we are having such a great time,” adds her mum.