When it comes to mixing her competitive drive and passion to advocate for the less fortunate, Stella McMillan finds herself balancing a promising career as an attorney in Chicago with her pursuit of medaling in the Paralympics. These challenging pursuits in passion and purpose are what make Stella a true Unicorn.

Abandoned as a baby and born without legs, Stella's story is about grit and perseverance. She not only uses her experience to challenge herself for greatness, but strives to be better for others.  After moving from Vietnam to Chicago with her adoptive parents, Stella found her passion in adaptive sports, eventually excelling in wheelchair basketball at the collegiate level where she earned All-American honors.

However, it's wasn't just about dominating the basketball court. Stella’s experiences growing up in Chicago developed a purpose in her to advance the ball off the court for the less fortunate. After graduating from college, Stella decided to attend law school to advocate for those less fortunate.

***

Stella's competitive spirit remains strong. She is currently working as a Summer Associate at a prestigious law firm in Chicago, where plans to work after graduating from law school. The law firm is also supporting her as she continues a passion for becoming a Paralympian. Although she has not made the team yet, the firm is very excited about her personal goals and wants to help in any way they can. 

Consistent with our Unicorn Features, we met with Stella to discuss her purpose, overcoming obstacles, and the projects she’s working on.

How do you describe your purpose in life as a Unicorn?

I’m driven by a commitment to making a positive impact across diverse areas of my life and contributing to a diverse society. Whether navigating the legal landscape, excelling in adaptive sports, or engaging in daily interactions, my aim is to leave a lasting impression that inspires and elevates those around me.

How did you identify your purpose? Were there obstacles along the way?

Identifying my purpose has been a journey shaped by remarkable challenges and transformative experiences.

Born without legs and abandoned at birth in Bac Ninh, Vietnam, I was raised in an orphanage until my adoption brought me to Chicago's southwest side. It was there that I discovered adaptive sports, a pivotal moment that altered the course of my life.

Participating in the inaugural IHSA wheelchair track division and representing Junior Team USA marked significant milestones, culminating in earning two silver medals. My journey continued with Division 1 wheelchair basketball at Illinois Women's Division, where I achieved recognition as a First Team All-American and secured third place in nationals. Through these achievements, I realized the power of my voice to inspire and motivate others.

My upbringing and experiences have instilled in me a deep conviction that sharing my story can spark positive change. Despite the obstacles I've faced, I've come to understand that everyone encounters challenges, visible or not. Through the strength of community and faith, I've embraced my role in making a meaningful impact on others' lives.

From a young age, I recognized injustices in my community and felt compelled to address them. I've committed myself to advocacy, using my voice to amplify the voices of the underrepresented and educate my community about their rights. My goal is not only to inspire through my journey but also to be a catalyst for positive change, offering support and empowerment wherever it's needed.

In essence, my purpose is to leverage my experiences and resilience to advocate for justice, equality, and empowerment. Through my journey, I strive to demonstrate that adversity can be overcome, and every individual has the power to make a lasting impact on their community and beyond.

What tips would you provide others to identify their purpose?

First, I believe in listening to oneself. Take time to introspect and identify what activities or pursuits bring genuine satisfaction and fulfillment. Purpose is often found where passion meets skill and where activities resonate deeply with one's values and beliefs. Pay attention to moments that make your heart and soul feel whole, as these can provide valuable clues about your true calling. 

It's essential to acknowledge that life's practicalities—such as financial responsibilities, family obligations, and everyday challenges—can sometimes overshadow our pursuit of purpose. However, even amidst busy schedules, carving out small moments to engage in activities that bring joy and fulfillment is crucial. Don't hesitate to try new hobbies, volunteer for causes that resonate with you, or engage in conversations with diverse groups of people. Each of these experiences offers opportunities for growth, self-discovery, and potentially uncovering hidden passions or talents. 

Lastly, seeking feedback can provide valuable perspectives and insights. 

What are projects that you are working on that everyone should know about?

Tribal Adaptive. It is a non-profit dedicated to Native Americans with disabilities.  Tribal provides them access to sports equipment and opportunities to improve their health, success and personal sense of well-being.

I sit on the Board of Tribal.

How can people find you?

Instagram:  @Stellar_114

LinkedIn:  Stella McMillan