Born Without Arms, Boundless in Strength: Dejana Backo’s Journey Through Art, Sport, and Motherhood

Some stories redefine what we think is possible. Dejana Backo’s is one of them.

Born on December 9, 1994, in Novi Sad, Serbia, Dejana entered the world without arms. As a child, she often questioned why she was different. But over time, those questions transformed into clarity and strength. She came to understand that her condition did not define her limits—it only shaped the unique way she would overcome them.

Her journey into art began early. At just nine years old, she joined the Society of Mouth and Foot Painters, where she started developing her skills using her feet. What began as curiosity soon became passion. Dejana went on to study at the Design Art School, graduating in 2014, and later continued her education at the Academy of Fine Arts in Novi Sad.

Her work didn’t go unnoticed. Over the years, her paintings have been showcased in nearly 20 cities across the Balkans, earning her recognition as a talented and expressive artist. Through her art, she tells a story not of limitation—but of identity, resilience, and perspective.

Yet Dejana didn’t stop there.

Driven by a desire to challenge herself even further, she entered the world of sport. In 2016, she began training in para taekwondo—a decision that would change her life. Known in Serbia as the “girl with wings,” she quickly rose through the ranks.

Her defining moment came in 2019, when she made history by becoming Serbia’s first world champion in para taekwondo at the World Championships in Turkey. Competing in the K41 women’s −47 kg category, she proved that determination can break barriers that once seemed impossible.

Despite her success, Dejana’s journey took a new and deeply personal turn in February 2023, when she became a mother. Preparing for this role required difficult choices, including stepping away from professional sport and giving up her chance to compete at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

But for Dejana, this was not a loss—it was a new beginning.

Motherhood has reshaped her daily life, bringing new challenges and new purpose. While her athletic career is currently on pause, her mindset remains unchanged. She has already expressed her intention to return to training when the time feels right.

Through social media, Dejana continues to inspire thousands, sharing her journey and encouraging others to believe in themselves. Her message is clear: everyone faces challenges, but understanding your worth is the key to overcoming them.

Through art, sport, and motherhood, Dejana Backo shows that strength is not defined by what we lack—but by how we rise.