World Down Syndrome Congress 2024

Down Syndrome Australia was thrilled to host the World Down Syndrome Congress (WDSC) 2024 in Brisbane, bringing together the global Down syndrome community for four days of celebration, learning and connection.
World Down Syndrome Congress 2024 thumbnail.

Reflecting on World Down Syndrome Congress 2024 

WDSC 2024, held in Brisbane from 9-12 July, was an unforgettable event that united people with Down syndrome, their families, advocates, professionals and researchers from around the world.

Congress was the perfect opportunity to come together, learn, celebrate and make positive change for our community. 

Down Syndrome International (DSI) organises the World Down Syndrome Congress (WDSC) every three years in different countries. For 2024, DSI selected Down Syndrome Australia to host the event in Brisbane, bringing the global Down syndrome community together for this fantastic gathering. 

Here’s a quick snapshot of Congress: 

1,000

people

45

countries 

200+

sessions

Watch the highlights from WDSC 2024 to relive some of the best moments from the event! 

Self-Advocates Day 

Before Congress officially began, over 120 self-advocates came together. They identified five key themes that matter to them as people with Down syndrome. These became central to Congress: 

  • Independence: Being able to express yourself and make your own decisions 
  • Advocacy leadership: Being listened to and growing confidence to speak for yourself 
  • Mental health and emotional wellbeing: Recognising physical, mental and emotional health all matter, including being part of a community 
  • Friends and relationships: Acknowledging the power of close relationships and their value 
  • Respect for individuals and ending abuse in family settings.  

Congress Program 

Under the theme “Together We Can: Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion,” the Congress offered close to over 200 sessions on: 

  • Health and Therapeutic Advances 
  • Education and Employment 
  • Advocacy and Social Inclusion 
  • Family Life 
  • Personal Development 

Self-advocates, families and experts led workshops, shared the latest research and delivered inspiring presentations. Sessions were filled with practical tips, personal stories and plenty of inspiration for everyone. 

Social Events and Connections 

The social events at WDSC 2024 played a huge role in creating a sense of community. Many attendees shared that reconnecting with old friends and making new ones was the highlight of their experience. 

From a special meet-and-greet for people with Down syndrome to a vibrant Welcome Reception featuring a marketplace with small business owners who have Down syndrome, there was never a dull moment. The Congress Gala Dinner wrapped up the week perfectly, with live music, dancing and a celebration of the Sherry Hogan Together We Can leadership scholars. 

Watch the video below to hear from the scholarship recipients and see the program’s impact. 

Other Congress Highlights 

Opening Ceremony: 

The Congress kicked off in style with a Welcome to Country dance, an international flag ceremony, and inspiring speeches from special guests, including Minister Rishworth, Bridget Snedden (President of Down Syndrome International) and our Congress Committee Co-chairs. 

Special Performances: 

Dance, music, and entertainment were highlights of WDSC 2024. Performances included ballet and contemporary dance, the “Together Red” choir, Jerry Ritchter-Nguyen’s martial arts and magic tricks, and Raji Renshaw’s moving short film about his life.  

Personal Stories: 

Throughout the Congress, we were moved by personal stories shared by self-advocates and their families. These stories focused on topics like employment, relationships, finding your voice and achieving goals, showing the incredible capabilities of people with Down syndrome. Charlotte Woodward’s story, in particular, was a powerful reminder of the possibilities that come with support and inclusion.  

Tribute to Sir Robert Martin: 

A special tribute was paid to Sir Robert Martin, a tireless disability rights advocate from New Zealand who passed away in early 2024. His work and legacy continue to inspire the ongoing fight for equality and opportunity for people with Down syndrome. 

The Voice Publication: Special Congress Edition 

Our special Congress edition of Voice features interviews with inspiring speakers, highlights from the event and in-depth stories from attendees. It’s a great way to discover more about what made the Congress so memorable.  

“Wow! What another extraordinary World Down Syndrome Congress 2024! We’ve met more incredible people and heard inspiring stories and insights.”

— Congress Participant 

“It was a privilege to see the Congress unfold over the four days. The atmosphere allowed our global community to connect and feel welcomed and among friends.”

— Congress Participant 

Two people at the Congress

“I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be part of something so amazing! Day one was massive and so informative—the speakers have been amazing!”

— Congress Participant 

Thank You to Our Supporters 

A big thank you to everyone who attended and helped make this event possible: our patrons, committee, staff, volunteers, sponsors, speakers and special guests. 

Looking Ahead: WDSC 2027 in Buenos Aires 

The next World Down Syndrome Congress will take place in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 2027. Get a sneak peek of what’s to come in the teaser video below.