I am Nadège Botovolasoa: an engineer, a Black queer woman, and a person living with sickle cell disease. My story is defined by resilience, cultural pride, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge, regardless of the challenges life has presented.

Born in Paris in the 90s to Malagasy parents who immigrated to France for a better life, my journey began at the crossroads of cultural richness and the harsh realities faced by second-generation children. At just three years old, following my first crisis, I was diagnosed with sickle cell disease. This genetic condition is rooted in a mutation meant to protect against malaria, but it predominantly affects Black communities worldwide. Growing up with this chronic illness shaped my perspective on life, health, and the systemic barriers many of us encounter.

Despite the physical and emotional toll of sickle cell disease, I chose to study science and engineering. This is a field where women, especially Black queer women with chronic illnesses, remain vastly underrepresented. My academic journey was demanding; navigating crises, fatigue, and systemic hurdles meant that every achievement was a hard-won victory. I succeeded in earning my degree, proving that ambition and resilience can overcome even the toughest obstacles.

Following my studies, I lived in several different countries, experiencing ableism, sexism, and racism in various forms. Each location taught me something new about the world and about myself. Today, I work in a military environment where the intersections of my identities serve as both a source of strength and a daily challenge. In this role, I see firsthand how systems of oppression overlap and how crucial it is to speak up, educate, and build bridges.

Through this project, my goal is to:

• Shed light on the realities of intersectionality by sharing my experiences and the stories of others navigating multiple marginalized identities.
• Increase representation through interviews with inspiring individuals and cultural recommendations that reflect our diverse histories.
• Create a community where everyone, especially Black queer women and chronically ill folks, feels seen, heard, and empowered.

This space is my answer to the silence surrounding Black queer women with chronic illnesses. Here, I share my story, my struggles, and my triumphs, alongside resources to help others navigate their own intersections. My hope is to build a world where we can all thrive unapologetically and together.