Just Like You – Down Syndrome is an award-winning short documentary that follows three young people—Elyssa, Rachel, and Sam—as they share what everyday life looks like while living with Down syndrome—not just in how they are perceived, but in how they experience the world.
Through honest, age-appropriate storytelling, Elyssa, Rachel, and Sam speak directly to the camera about their interests, friendships, challenges, and aspirations. With unfiltered candor and warmth, they offer insight that only young people living with Down syndrome themselves can provide, reminding viewers that their lives are full, complex, and uniquely their own.
The film helps viewers better understand both the differences and the many similarities shared between individuals with Down syndrome and their peers. It is designed to reduce misconceptions, build empathy, and create space for more inclusive and respectful conversations among classmates, educators, healthcare providers, families, and communities.
What began as a single project quickly demonstrated its impact. By centering the voices of young people themselves, the film became part of a growing body of work dedicated to fostering understanding, inclusion, and empathy through storytelling.
WHO IS THIS FILM FOR
This film is often used by:
• Educators supporting inclusive classrooms and peer understanding
• Healthcare providers engaged in patient and family education
• Wellness and HR teams building empathy and inclusive cultures
• Families and individuals seeking understanding and connection
INTERESTED IN GOING FURTHER?
Many viewers want to do more after watching—whether that’s starting a conversation, supporting a group, or bringing this story into a classroom, workplace, healthcare system, or nonprofit setting.
The Empathy Engine™, created by Just Like You Films, builds on films like this by pairing storytelling with guided conversation and action. It is designed for group experiences that help people move from understanding to meaningful change.
If you’re interested in using this film in a group or organizational setting, we’d love to connect.
Learn more about the Empathy Engine™ →
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COPYRIGHT AND USAGE NOTICE
© Just Like You Films. All rights reserved.
This film is licensed for individual, personal viewing only.
Public screenings, classroom use, workplace showings, community events, or any form of group viewing are not permitted under this license.
For educational, organizational, or institutional use—including screenings, facilitated discussions, or extended access—please contact Just Like You Films directly.