Ileana Rodriguez – Paralyzed Swimmer & Architect

Disability: Paraplegic due to a spinal malformation
Story: Ileana became paralyzed at age 13. Despite limited accessibility in her native Cuba, she later moved to the U.S., became a Paralympic swimmer, and earned a degree in architecture focused on accessible design. She now works globally on disability-inclusive buildings and schools.
Quote: “The world wasn’t designed for people like me—but I can help redesign it.”