Dima Hendricks is an award-winning sickle cell advocate, author, speaker, and the founder and executive director of #ThroughThePain, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocacy, education, mental health and wellness, storytelling, and community support for individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease.

For more than two decades, Dima has used her lived experience with sickle cell disease to educate communities, challenge harmful misconceptions, and advocate for more equitable and compassionate healthcare. Her work has included leading health workshops, participating in national panels and media conversations, and collaborating with organizations such as the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association. She has also served as an American Red Cross National Spokeswoman and received the organization’s Blood Services Hero Award.

Dima also has an extensive background in pageantry, with more than a decade of experience as a contestant, titleholder, director, coach, mentor, and judge. Her titles have included Miss Black Dorchester USA, Miss Black Massachusetts USA, Mrs. Massachusetts International, International Mrs. Massachusetts, and International Mrs. New England 2024.

Her passion for helping women recognize their identity, confidence, and purpose is reflected in her book, Unleashing Royalty. Through her personal story of resilience, healing, and transformation, Dima encourages readers to move beyond survival, rediscover their voices, and embrace the royalty within themselves.