✨ The Refugee Olympic Team is set to make waves at the Paris 2024 Games, not just by participating but by chasing those coveted medals! 🥇
The team, made up of 37 athletes competing across 12 sports, was warmly welcomed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) during its 142nd session in Paris on Tuesday. This is the largest refugee team ever assembled for the Olympics, and they're bringing the heat! 🔥
Cameroon-born boxer Cindy Ngamba, now training in the UK, couldn't hide her excitement. \"Just hearing our name, 'Refugee Olympic Team', announced will resonate with refugees all over the world,\" she shared. \"We are seen as a team, as athletes, as fighters—hungry athletes who are part of a family. We're not afraid or ashamed; we're proud to be refugees. Even if we're not with them, we can feel their energy.\" 💪🌍
The Refugee Olympic Team first made its debut at the Rio 2016 Games with just 10 athletes. Fast forward to 2024, and the team's growth highlights the increasing global awareness of displaced people seeking hope and opportunity through sports. 🏃♂️🏊♀️
\"It's all about the team, about family,\" Ngamba emphasized. \"We used to compete individually or in small groups, but now we're a big family representing the refugee team. We'll hold our heads high and be proud of the team we're part of.\" 😊
She added, \"People see us as refugees but forget we're athletes with the same goals as other countries. We can achieve the same things, win the same medals, and have the same drive and hunger.\" 🥊🏆
Co-flagbearer Yahya Al Ghotany, a taekwondo athlete who found his passion in a refugee camp in Jordan, echoed Ngamba's sentiments. \"It's a wonderful feeling knowing I'm representing many people who have gone through the same experiences as me,\" he told reporters. \"Representing more than 100 million displaced people across the globe is very important because it sends a message of hope. There is always hope in passion.\" 🌟
As the Paris Games approach, the Refugee Olympic Team stands not just as competitors but as symbols of resilience and inspiration. They're ready to show the world that no matter where you come from, dreams are valid and achievable. Let's cheer them on! 🙌🎉
Reference(s):
Refugee team members proud of identities, but also have Olympic dreams
cgtn.com
