Anastasia Pagonis’ story is one of resilience, determination, and a refusal to let limitations define her. At 19 years of age, she’s a Paralympic gold medalist swimmer, a social media influencer with millions of followers, and a makeup enthusiast — all while navigating life with blindness.

Anastasia’s childhood was filled with typical teenage joys — playing soccer, hanging out with friends, and experimenting with makeup. But at 11, a routine eye exam revealed a rare genetic condition that threatened her vision. Doctors initially reassured her, but by 14, the truth came crashing down — Anastasia had two eye diseases that would ultimately lead to complete vision loss.

This diagnosis plunged her into a period of deep depression. Swimming, once a source of joy and competition, lost its appeal. Makeup, a creative outlet, seemed pointless without sight. It took nearly a year for Anastasia to find acceptance and the determination to reclaim her life.

Returning to the pool, this time with the help of a tapper to guide her, reignited her passion for swimming. Social media became a platform for openness and connection. Sharing her experiences, from navigating blindness to rediscovering makeup, resonated with millions. It allowed her to advocate for people with disabilities and inspire others.

One of the most inspiring aspects of Anastasia’s journey is her unwavering love for makeup. Although she can’t see the products or the application, she’s developed a unique approach. From strategically labeling products to relying on the expertise of beauty store staff, she continues to experiment and express herself. The act of applying makeup, she says, makes her feel confident and beautiful, a feeling blindness can’t erase.

Anastasia’s story goes beyond personal triumph. It challenges societal perceptions of blindness. She dismantles the stereotype of someone visually impaired being a certain way. She’s an athlete, a makeup enthusiast, and most importantly, Anastasia — a vibrant young woman defying limitations.

Her journey continues as she trains for the Paralympics in Paris, all while advocating for a more inclusive beauty industry. Anastasia’s story is a powerful reminder that with resilience, self-discovery, and a touch of mascara, anything is possible.

(Note: India accounts for around 20% of the global blind population. Project Eyeway is an initiative by Score Foundation that acts as a one-stop knowledge resource for those people who are living their lives with blindness. Eyeway operates a national toll-free Helpdesk — 1800 53 20469.)