Translator: Denise RQ Reviewer: Juli G
Hello, my name is Yasmine Berraoui.
I have Down's syndrome.
I want to start by asking you a question.
Who's wondering why I'm on stage?
Who's asking what a young girl
with Down syndrome is doing onstage at TEDxCasablanca?
This question, "What am I doing here?" was the biggest problem of my life.
Moreover, three weeks ago,
a journalist was wondering if we should allow abortions
in the case of a child diagnosed with trisomy.
Look over there.
Besides, since I was little,
I've suffered from not having friends.
And the worst is that I didn't even understand why.
At the age of 13 year, I learned that I had trisomy
when my parents let me know.
I had troubles understanding.
It's right that I have one chromosome more than you.
Look at the pair 21.
I'm like you. I've got two legs, two arms, a brain, and a heart.
I received my high school degree in 2014 with honors.
(Applause)
This awarded me being honored by His Majesty Mohammed VI.
I was also contacted by the press and trended on social media.
But I didn't get why.
(Applause)
I don't feel handicapped.
Plenty of people say to themselves,
"Oh, poor thing, she has Down syndrome. She is handicapped!
But don't forget I'm the one with an extra chromosome.
(Laughter)
You're the ones missing something.
(Applause)
Before I finish,
I just wanted to say one thing.
I don't feel handicapped. It's true.
People who think that someone with Down syndrome can't do anything
aren't open-minded for another world,
a world in which differences are accepted to transform them into strengths,
a world in which you prove to people with trisomy
or to other children with special needs
that they have a chance to live their dreams.
Well, I told the parents of children with special needs,
fight for them!
Really! Fight for them!
(Applause)
Don't let them down!
They have the right to live their dreams.
And that's right for everyone.
And that is right for everyone. Fight for them!
Honestly!
One need to know that there are numerous people with trisomy
who are painters, cooks, or even actors.
I want to become a businesswoman.
But there are numerous professions accessible
such as painter, laborer, or actor.
It's right. Well, I say, fight for them.
There are certain things needed to succeed.
I succeed because I work just like everyone else.
Thank you. Have a great evening.
(Applause)