Ellie Goldstein, who made history as the first contestant with Down's syndrome to compete on Strictly Come Dancing, has performed at St James's Palace for the Duchess of Edinburgh.
The model and actress, alongside her professional dance partner Vito Coppola, took to the floor at the royal residence following a special afternoon tea hosted by Sophie.
The duchess, who serves as patron of the learning disability charity Mencap, had previously sent a video message during last year's Strictly final praising Ellie's role in challenging perceptions.
Sophie even acknowledged the difficulty of their palace performance, noting: "that is very difficult to do on carpet."
Ellie Goldstein has been celebrated at St James's Palace by the Duchess of Edinburgh
|During the palace visit, Ellie enjoyed cake with the duchess, who expressed her admiration for the dancer's television courage.
Sophie told her: "braver then a lion to do that show, I really do. I loved it."
The pair discussed the enduring influence of Ellie's Strictly journey, with the duchess asking numerous questions about her experience on the programme.
Ellie, who attended the event with her mother Yvonne, described the occasion as "amazing" and spoke of how meaningful it was to receive recognition from royalty.
Yvonne Goldstein reflected on the encounter, calling the experience of visiting St James's Palace and meeting Sophie "surreal."
Ellie expressed her gratitude for the royal acknowledgement, stating: "It means so much to be recognised by a member of the royal family."
Ellie Goldstein and Vito Coppola made history during Strictly Come Dancing
| BBCShe added: "I'm proud to show that people with a learning disability can achieve their dreams and to never give up what they want to do."
The Strictly star, who serves as a Mencap Myth Buster ambassador, has clearly made a lasting impression on her dance partner.
Coppola described their collaboration as "an incredible experience" and said he had gained "a little sister for life."
He reflected on the unique approach required, explaining: "Everyone learns differently and dancing with someone who has a learning disability means thinking outside the box and understanding how to communicate and teach in the best way that works for them."
Jon Sparkes, chief executive of Mencap which marks its 80th anniversary this year, attended the palace gathering and spoke of Ellie's broader significance.
He said: "It recognises not only Ellie's talent and determination, but the way she has challenged assumptions and opened hearts and minds across the country."
The Duchess of Edinburgh serves as a patron to Mencap
|GETTY
Mr Sparkes emphasised that Ellie's influence is "helping to drive lasting change in attitudes and expectations."
He noted that many people have expressed how vital it is to see themselves represented on television.
Yvonne Goldstein shared her hopes for the wider impact, saying: "If one family say them and told their children, 'this is what you can achieve in life' then it's all worth it."
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