NEW DELHI: The Olympic Games , considered the pinnacle of sporting competition, got off to a grand start in Paris today. The Games also honours refugee athletes who have overcome incredible obstacles to pursue their dreams.
One such athlete is Yusra Mardini , a Syrian refugee who fled her war-torn country as a teenager and went on to compete in the 2016 and 2020 Olympic Games.
Yusra was just 16 years old when she escaped from the civil war in her home in Syria in August 2015. Accompanied by her sister, the journey was gruelling. They travelled by plane from Syria to Lebanon, then to Turkey, before boarding a boat bound for Greece.
However, the boat's engine failed mid-journey, and Yusra, along with her sister and two others, jumped into the water and pushed the boat for three hours to safety, saving the lives of the other passengers.
Her journey to her final destination, Germany, continued on foot, in buses, and even with the help of smugglers. Less than a year later, Mardini competed as part of the first-ever IOC Refugee Olympic Team at Rio 2016.
Though her performance in the 100m butterfly heat placed her among the lower ranks, her triumph transcended the medal podium. In her words, she carried not just the Olympic flag but the hopes and dreams of a global community of refugees.
Yusra's journey extends beyond the pool, as she advocates for refugee rights and was named the youngest-ever UN's Human Rights Goodwill Ambassador . Her indomitable spirit continues to inspire, proving that sport can be a powerful tool for hope and resilience.
The recent release of her biopic "The Swimmers" further cemented her legacy, while her inclusion in TIME Magazine's 100 Most Influential People In The World in 2023 affirmed her impact on society.
While 10 athletes participated in the 2016 Olympics as part of the Refugee team, the Paris Olympics will witness a significant increase, with 37 athletes representing the banner.
This growth highlights the importance of providing a platform for refugees to showcase their talents and share their stories on a global stage.
As the Olympics continue, Yusra Mardini's story serves as a reminder of the power of the human spirit and the ability to overcome even the most daunting challenges.
Her journey from a war-torn country to the Olympic arena is a testament to the resilience and determination of refugees worldwide, and her advocacy work ensures that their voices are heard and their rights are protected.
One such athlete is Yusra Mardini , a Syrian refugee who fled her war-torn country as a teenager and went on to compete in the 2016 and 2020 Olympic Games.
Yusra was just 16 years old when she escaped from the civil war in her home in Syria in August 2015. Accompanied by her sister, the journey was gruelling. They travelled by plane from Syria to Lebanon, then to Turkey, before boarding a boat bound for Greece.
Lighting the path with courage and perseverance 💫
— UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency (@Refugees) July 26, 2024
UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador, Olympic athlete, former refugee and powerhouse Yusra Mardini proudly carried the Olympic flame 🔥.
She inspires us all as we kick off #Paris2024. pic.twitter.com/JptUv9LkYc
However, the boat's engine failed mid-journey, and Yusra, along with her sister and two others, jumped into the water and pushed the boat for three hours to safety, saving the lives of the other passengers.
Her journey to her final destination, Germany, continued on foot, in buses, and even with the help of smugglers. Less than a year later, Mardini competed as part of the first-ever IOC Refugee Olympic Team at Rio 2016.
Though her performance in the 100m butterfly heat placed her among the lower ranks, her triumph transcended the medal podium. In her words, she carried not just the Olympic flag but the hopes and dreams of a global community of refugees.
Yusra's journey extends beyond the pool, as she advocates for refugee rights and was named the youngest-ever UN's Human Rights Goodwill Ambassador . Her indomitable spirit continues to inspire, proving that sport can be a powerful tool for hope and resilience.
The recent release of her biopic "The Swimmers" further cemented her legacy, while her inclusion in TIME Magazine's 100 Most Influential People In The World in 2023 affirmed her impact on society.
While 10 athletes participated in the 2016 Olympics as part of the Refugee team, the Paris Olympics will witness a significant increase, with 37 athletes representing the banner.
This growth highlights the importance of providing a platform for refugees to showcase their talents and share their stories on a global stage.
As the Olympics continue, Yusra Mardini's story serves as a reminder of the power of the human spirit and the ability to overcome even the most daunting challenges.
Her journey from a war-torn country to the Olympic arena is a testament to the resilience and determination of refugees worldwide, and her advocacy work ensures that their voices are heard and their rights are protected.
