Born without arms, Serbian athlete and artist Dejana Backo continues to inspire millions by proving that resilience, and love, can rewrite any story.
The Girl Who Refused to Be Defined by Her Disability
When Dejana Backo was born without arms in Novi Sad, Serbia, doctors told her parents she might face a life of limitations. But Backo, now a celebrated para taekwondo world champion and visual artist, had something else in mind.
Growing up, she often asked her mother why she didn’t have arms. As she matured, that question transformed into something greater, a realization that her condition didn’t define her worth or her dreams.
Today, Backo’s story resonates across the world as a reminder that determination, creativity, and love can overcome any barrier.
From Paintbrush to Podium
At just nine years old, Dejana joined the Society of Mouth and Foot Painters, discovering a passion that would shape her early years. Using her feet as her brushes, she created art that soon gained regional recognition.
After graduating from the Design Art School in 2014 and later studying at the Academy of Fine Arts in Novi Sad, Backo held solo exhibitions in nearly 20 cities across the Balkans.
But it wasn’t only art where she soared. Known as the “girl with wings,” Backo turned to athletics and made history in 2019 when she became a world champion in para taekwondo, clinching gold in the K41 women’s −47 kg division at the World Para Taekwondo Championships in Turkey, an unprecedented win for Serbia.
“I wanted to show that being different can also mean being extraordinary,” she once said in an interview.
Her success in both art and sport has made her a role model for countless people living with disabilities, as well as for anyone who has ever doubted their potential.
Love, Motherhood, and a New Chapter
Backo’s story took a heartwarming turn in February 2023, when she gave birth to her first child with her partner, a fitness instructor. Her journey into motherhood brought new challenges, but also new joys.
To prepare for this major life change, she made the decision to pause her athletic career, even if that meant missing the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games.
“We all have some difficulties as people with disabilities,” Backo explained. “But if you have a good picture of yourself, if you know who you are and what your worth is, you can pass all the negatives and focus on the positives.”
Her message of self-worth and positivity continues to resonate with her growing social media audience, where she shares motivational content about body confidence, resilience, and the importance of self-belief.
Balancing Passion and Purpose
Though she’s temporarily stepped away from competitive taekwondo, Backo remains deeply connected to her passions. Her Instagram feed is filled with artwork, fitness moments, and heartfelt glimpses into her new life as a mother.
Backo says that while motherhood may slow her athletic comeback, it has only strengthened her purpose, to inspire others to pursue their dreams despite life’s obstacles.
“She proves that success isn’t about what we have,” said one fan on social media. “It’s about what we believe we can do.”
The Power of Self-Belief
Backo’s journey embodies the power of resilience, a concept that transcends physical limitations. From painting masterpieces with her feet to becoming a world champion athlete, she reminds the world that ability is not measured by limbs, but by mindset.
Her story stands as a beacon for anyone facing adversity: life’s greatest victories often come from the challenges we rise above.As Backo continues to balance art, motherhood, and advocacy, her message remains clear, you are more than your limits.
Featured image from Instagram: devojka_sa_krilima