Dating ups & downs 'WE'RE READY FOR ROMANCE'

Meet six singles with Down syndrome who'll be dating up a storm on new reality series Down For Love

LEISEL

23, HIBISCUS COAST

Businesswoman Leisel Shepherd sells makeup and skincare products in a thriving enterprise that saw her grace the pages of Woman's Day in 2020. She's looking for a partner who “loves baking, going for walks and playing mini-golf - someone kind and helpful”. Asked what makes her such a great catch, Leisel says, “I have a loving nature and am a happy person who loves animals, especially cats. And I'm a good cook!" Her dream date would be a trip to the movies or 10-pin bowling, as long as there are hot chips involved. She's keen to point out that Kiwis with Down syndrome "live life and enjoy it just like other people – to be a little different is not bad or scary".

CARLOS

31, DUNEDIN

Originally from Bolivia, Carlos Biggeman speaks four languages and is studying a fifth. He says starring in Down For Love is "the opportunity of a lifetime because I want to find someone to have great conversations with”. Asked what he's looking for in a partner, the artist and photographer replies, “Respect and loyalty. They need to be beautiful inside and out - what matters is her charisma and persona. I want a friend I can trust forever.” Carlos has had two girlfriends, one in Bolivia and one in Sydney, but he explains, “Longdistance relationships don't work." His dream date is "a nice getaway for just the two of us, maybe in a hot pool, going to see a movie or a walk holding hands out in the wilderness”.

LILY