Age: 15
Age at Diagnosis: 13

Bela is on the competitive rowing team at her high school and her rowing academy—she feels those experiences have helped her gain important leadership and teamwork skills. She earned her black belt in Taekwondo, is part of her school district’s diversity panel, and president of her school’s Indian international dance team and helps plan events that celebrate Indian culture. 

Bela was recently in the clinical trial for Tzield, the recently FDA approved drug proven to delay the onset of T1D, and the experience was eye opening for her. “I saw scientists, researchers, doctors, and nurses trying to find a cure and it was amazing.” Bela is passionate about advocating for reduced cost and improved access to therapies and technologies, particularly in communities of color. She hopes to become a lawyer or policymaker one day and advocate for people with disabilities.