What started as a passion for taking holiday photos has now become a business venture for the 27-year-old, who sells greeting cards that are unique to her hometown.

Keziah is a role model for children who have Down Syndrome, particularly those in Ballarat, with many parents and families keen to learn from her about what can be possible as she pursues her dreams.

Keziah learned the basics of her new trade from sister Tegan, who is a professional photographer. The rest has been in gradually building and expanding her business Pics By Kez. She predominantly sells her cards in Adam Lindsay Gordon Craft Cottage, where she also volunteers, in Ballarat Botanical Gardens.

“Photos are really quite good fun. I've been taking photos for years. They bring back memories and when I’m upset, I like to look at my photos,” Keziah said.

“My sister helped me with technology to start the business, but Mum and I have a really close mother-daughter bond, so I thought this was also a good way to spend time together.

“Before she was just a helper, then I asked her to be my manager.”

This week’s World Down Syndrome Day celebrates #WhatIBringToMyCommunity. Keziah is passionate about promoting all things Ballarat and like to talk with locals and visitors about places to visit and her cards, which she also sells in cafes about town.

A decorated swimmer, Keziah still actively participates with Special Olympics Ballarat but swims mostly for health and fitness, rather than competition now.

Keziah also works three days a week in a Ballarat department store and keeps up a busy social schedule.

Proudly, Keziah lives independently in her own unit on a relative’s property with help from disability support services in housekeeping, meal preparation and menu shopping.

While Keziah enjoys her own space, she also loves family and friends popping over for a visit.

Always keen for new ideas, Keziah is exploring how to expand her business into postcards, bookmarks and possibly a calendar.

The aim is to capture a little bit of Ballarat for everyone who loves this city.

To follow or see more of Keziah’s work, visit Pics By Kez Facebook page.

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STATEMENT socks is the way to get people talking about Down Syndrome on a grassroots level this Wednesday.

Down Syndrome Australia is calling for people to wear bright or animated conversation starters in a call to action for World Down Syndrome Day.

Lots of Socks aims to show all types, shapes, sizes of the same thing can be unique in their own way, and yet do the same thing.

Down syndrome is a genetic condition that occurs because of an extra chromosome. This can result in a range of physical characteristics, health and development indications and some level of intellectual disability. 

Down syndrome occurs at conception across all ethnic and social groups and to parents of all ages.

United Nations recognises March 21 as World Down Syndrome Day to celebrate achievements and lives of people with Down Syndrome. The day also promotes a global voice, advocating for the rights, inclusion and well-being of people with Down Syndrome.

This year’s World Down Syndrome Day theme is #WhatIBringToMyCommunity to celebrate meaningful contributions of people who have Down Syndrome.