A total of 36 athletes from 11 different countries who make up the Refugee Olympic Team will compete in the Paris Games. The team was initially established for the Rio Olympics in 2016 to serve as a symbol of hope and bring attention to the struggles faced by refugees globally. At a time marked by a record number of global migrations, the refugee athletes will embark on their journey in different sports to represent their resilience and determination.
Among the refugee athletes is Fernando Dayán Jorge from Cuba, a canoeist who defected from the Cuban national team to pursue his dreams in the United States. Despite facing challenges and uncertainties in a new country, Jorge continues to strive for excellence and will be competing in his third Olympics. His story of perseverance reflects the struggles and triumphs experienced by many other refugee athletes.
Manizha Talash, a young Afghan woman residing in Spain, will be showcasing her talent in breakdancing at the Paris Games. Coming from a country where women’s rights have been severely restricted, Talash found solace and empowerment through breakdancing. Her journey from Afghanistan to Spain epitomizes her determination and courage to pursue her passion despite facing adversity.
Mohammad Amin Alsalami, a Syrian athlete now residing in Germany, will also be participating in the Paris Games. Alsalami’s passion for athletics has been a guiding light through his journey as a refugee. Despite the challenges he has faced, he has found a sense of belonging and purpose through sports, symbolizing the resilience and strength of refugee athletes.
Iman Mahdavi, an Iranian wrestler who sought asylum in Italy, will be representing the Refugee Olympic Team in wrestling. Mahdavi’s dedication to his sport and his journey as a refugee highlight the obstacles faced by many athletes forced to leave their homelands. His story reflects the power of sports to inspire and bring hope to individuals striving to rebuild their lives.
These remarkable athletes, each with a unique story of resilience and determination, stand as a testament to the human spirit’s strength in the face of adversity. As they prepare to compete in the Paris Games, they not only represent the displaced and marginalized populations worldwide but also embody the values of courage, perseverance, and hope.
