Maria J Hackett

Princess Ìyánìfá Opare, Son, Prince, Brooklyn, 2020

In the early tests of Princess Ìyánìfá's pregnancy with Prince, a high chance of giving birth to a child with Down Syndrome was found. The challenging road ahead fighting for the life and love of her son was unbeknownst to her. Through consistent love and care for her son, Princess Ìyánìfá continuously works with her son in his development. Prince, who is now 8, excels in his growth. Communicating, singing, dancing, use of manipulatives, making eye contact upon interaction, cooking, and more as Ìyánìfá has dedicated her life to believing in him - while he, too, believes in himself. Ìyánìfá has and continues to nurture Prince's individuality while instilling love and knowledge- something others didn't see as possible.