From the vibrant soul of Louisville, Kentucky, to the dynamic heartbeat of the Greater New York area, Shemiyia O’Bannon-Sweeney has never stopped shining. A proud Southern belle with the heart of a trailblazer, Shemiyia embodies resilience, elegance, and a deep sense of purpose. For over a decade, she has served with compassion and excellence as a medical professional, currently working within a major New Jersey hospital system known for its commitment to LGBTQ advocacy. Yet her story stretches far beyond the hospital corridors. Known affectionately as “The Jacqueline of all trades,” Shemiyia balances many roles with grace, wife, daughter, actress-in-training, healthcare advocate, and U.S. surgical coordinator for the Mexico Transgender Center, where she helps others access life-changing gender-affirming care.
A cherished moment in her journey came in 2015 when she stood tall and radiant on Dr. Drew’s television show, offering visibility and hope to countless viewers. Shemiyia is also deeply rooted in her family legacy. Alongside her mother, Sheila O’Bannon, she continues to breathe life into The Prodigal, a moving stage play written by Sheila and now on its way to becoming a screenplay. Together, they are shaping stories that uplift, challenge, and heal. But beyond her professional endeavors, Shemiyia’s story is one of self-love, courage, and authenticity. Her marriage to the love of her life, Bobby, is a testament to the power of love that sees beyond labels and embraces the soul. Through years of inner struggle, faith, and determination, Shemiyia emerged as the woman she was always meant to be, not just beautiful on the outside, but powerful in her truth. It is an honor to sit down with this remarkable woman, who believes that every transgender person deserves to be seen, celebrated, and cherished. In Shemiyia’s words, “The best is yet to come.” And we believe her.
