Pablo Pineda

Winner at the 2017 Moonbeam Spirit Award and at the 2017 International Latino Book Awards.

Pablo Pineda is the first European with Down Syndrome to obtain a university degree. This is his endearing story, which reminds us that the only disability is not understanding that all of us have different abilities. Pablo was born into a family full of love, and when he realized that his baby had different capacities from the rest of the children, he did not hesitate for a second to teach him to be the best version of himself.

His parents supported him and helped him become an autonomous person, and Pablo grew up with many dreams to achieve. Although society dictated that Pablo deserved special care, he demonstrated that being different can also lead you to success, and became the first European with Down Syndrome to obtain a university degree.

Pablo has achieved several triumphs throughout his life and has become a popular figure. He is a lecturer, teacher, writer, actor awarded the Silver Shell at the San Sebastian Festival... But his greatest achievement is, without a doubt, setting an example for those children who will follow him.

The What Really Matters Series presents real-life stories of people who realized their greatest potential despite challenges presented to them. Endorsed by the main characters, it benefits the What Really Matters Foundation, which promotes universal human values by showcasing extraordinary achievements by inspiring people.