People Helping People
We are a group of parents in British Columbia inspired by the joy and authenticity of our children with Down Syndrome.
DRIVING
CAREERS
FORWARD
Our Leadership
Board of Directors
We are a group of parents in British Columbia inspired by the joy and authenticity of our children with Down syndrome. DS Spotlight Productions was born from our passion to support their vocational and educational pursuits in the entertainment industry, empowering them to develop thriving careers. Our journey began with a vision to create opportunities where their talents shine, fostering inclusion and celebrating the beauty of living in the moment.
Geraldine Morris
Geraldine , a dedicated parent and valued Board Member of DS Spotlight Productions Society in Kelowna, British Columbia, is driven by her passion for supporting individuals with Down syndrome, inspired by her daughter. When her daughter was born with heart challenges, medical social workers at the time were adamant about deciding her future through institutionalization due to concerns about managing her fragile medical issues prior to heart surgery. With the support of strong women who advocated alongside her, Geraldine fiercely defended her right to keep and care for her daughter. Her unwavering commitment led to her daughter’s remarkable growth into adulthood. As a Chartered Professional Accountant, Geraldine currently focuses on tax return preparation for clients, bringing her financial expertise to the organization’s mission of fostering inclusive opportunities in the entertainment industry. Additionally, her long-standing commitment to the Special Olympics, where she served as a board member and swimming coach for many years, reflects her deep dedication to empowering individuals with developmental disabilities.
Jennifer is a devoted parent and the passionate Director of DS Spotlight Productions Society in Kelowna, British Columbia. Inspired by her daughter, who has Down syndrome, Jennifer co-founded the organization to create inclusive opportunities in the entertainment industry, empowering individuals to shine through authentic storytelling and representation. With over 30 years of experience in disability injury management and health & safety, Jennifer brings a strong commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals with Down syndrome on set, blending her professional expertise with her advocacy for meaningful, inclusive opportunities.
Rosalie Newell
Rosalie is a devoted parent and the visionary Director of DS Spotlight Productions Society in Kelowna, British Columbia. Inspired by her daughter, who has Down syndrome, Rosalie co-founded the organization to champion inclusive training programs in film, TV, dancing, singing, and modeling for individuals with Down syndrome. Passionate about lifelong learning, she advocates for ongoing education in reading and communication for adults with Down syndrome, recognizing its critical role in their success in the entertainment industry. With a background in small business ownership and advising clients on their financial planning in the insurance and investment sectors, Rosalie brings strategic insight to her leadership. She has also collaborated with other parents to organize group cruise conferences featuring international speakers specializing in the development of individuals with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities, attracting families from Canada, the United States, and beyond.
Suki Derriksan
Suki is a devoted parent and the compassionate Director of DS Spotlight Productions Society, a role she embraces with genuine care. A lifelong learner of holistic practices, she has studied Relaxation/Therapeutic Bodywork, Reiki, Yoga, Vedic Astrology, Sound Healing, integrating these passions into her daily life and work . Deeply committed to supporting individuals with Special Needs, particularly those with Down syndrome, Suki promotes a nurturing, holistic framework to encourage growth and well-being from infancy through adulthood. Her background in accounting and finance provides a solid foundation, ensuring thoughtful and sustainable leadership in her family and community endeavors.
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Connecting exceptional candidates with outstanding companies to create winning teams.
Support Our Mission
DS Spotlight Productions Society is dedicated to empowering actors with Down syndrome through training programs in film
Our Talent
We have a diverse roster of skilled performers ready to elevate your next production.
Cast With Us
DS Spotlight Productions is thrilled to have Michele Pearce, Principal/Commercial Agent at Apollo Artists/Boss Management based in North
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Photography Credits
We are immensely grateful to Helena Heidebrecht Photography for her exceptional headshots and fashion photography of our actors with Down syndrome. Her generous discount has helped showcase their talent and beauty across our website, advancing our mission of inclusion in film and media. For professional photography services, contact Helena.
Helena Heidebrecht
Photography
