As some of the biggest names in music turned out for the American Music Awards, there was a teen with Down syndrome in their midst, all thanks to pop singer Katy Perry.

Megan Squire, 17, caught Perry’s eye as the star of her Buckeye, Ariz. high school’s video entry to the “Good Morning America” Katy Perry “Roar” contest earlier this year. In the video, Squire, who has Down syndrome, is shown trying out for the school’s cheerleading squad.

Though Squire’s school did not win, Perry said she was inspired by the teen’s spirit and wanted her to be a special guest at an upcoming concert.

Instead, however, Perry flew Squire and her family to Los Angeles for the American Music Awards on Sunday where the teen was seated right behind Lady Gaga, reports ABC News.

“To have somebody like Katy Perry say she’s amazing is surreal,” Squire’s mother, Kimberly, told KNXV, adding that the recognition from Perry has been “life changing” for her daughter.