As she shares her experiences and insights, we gain a deeper understanding of her passion for swimming, her advocacy for refugees, and her unwavering commitment to inspiring others through her remarkable journey.
Your story of resilience and determination has truly inspired people around the world. Can you tell us a bit about your journey from Syria to becoming an Olympian?
Yusra Mardini: My journey began in Damascus, Syria, where I started swimming at just 3 years old. My father was my coach and I dreamed of becoming the next Michael Phelps. But when the war broke out in Syria when I was 13, that dream seemed further away than ever.
My sister and I made the dangerous decision to flee Syria in 2015. We crossed through 7 countries over 25 days to reach safety in Germany. One of the most harrowing parts was the boat journey from Turkey to Greece - thousands of refugees risk their lives on these crossings because they have no other choice. When I finally made it to Germany, the first thing I did was look for a pool. I met an incredible coach who asked me what my goal was - I told him I wanted to go to the Olympics. I was then given a scholarship and started training for the 2016 Rio Olympics, where I became part of the first ever Refugee Olympic Team.
What did it mean to you to be part of that historic team?
Yusra Mardini: It was the greatest moment of my life. When I walked into the Olympic stadium, I realized this was no longer just my dream - I was representing millions of refugees around the world. The hopes and dreams of young refugees watching in refugee camps . I didn't want people to feel sorry for me or think I didn't deserve my spot. That's when I realized I had a strong voice, and I was determined to use it to speak up for refugees everywhere.
The Refugee Olympic Team is returning for the 2024 Paris Olympics - what does that signify to you?
Yusra Mardini: The Refugee Olympic Team is more important than ever. The number of displaced people globally has grown from 65 million in 2016 to over 120 million today. These athletes have traveled further and fought harder than anyone else to make it to the Olympics. They each have incredible stories of resilience, bravery and determination, despite having to overcome unimaginable challenges. I'll be in Paris as a journalist to help tell all of their stories, because I believe the Refugee Team represents the true Olympic spirit - that it doesn't matter where you come from, it's about your goals and what you can achieve through sport.
I urge everyone to follow the Refugee Team, to cheer them on and to see them as your home team, alongside your national team. These athletes need our support more than ever, to show the world that refugees can achieve their dreams.