Women of color made history at the Tokyo Olympics and continue to pave the way for future generations. The following women are an inspiration to not just young girls, but everyone around the world tuning into the Olympics.
Simone Biles
The 24-year-old gymnast withdrew from the women’s gymnastics team final due to her physical and mental health. Simone Biles was facing personal issues while competing in the Tokyo Olympics, two days before the balance beam event her aunt had passed away. Simone Biles reminds us that prioritizing our mental health is just as important as our physical health, and we applaud her for that!
Yumilar Rojas
Yumilar Rojas is a Venezulian athlete and champion who made her country proud by being the first woman to win a gold medal for Venezuela. Not only did she make history, but she broke the world record for the triple jump. We love to see it!
Neisi Dajomes
¡Si se puede! Weightlifter Neisi Dajomes showed the world that mujeres pueden too. The 23-year-old Ecuadorian became the first woman to win a gold medal for her country.
Luciana Alvarado
This artistic gymnast used her platform for what she believes in. Luciana Alvarado paid tribute to the Black Lives Matter movement by ending her routine on one knee and a fist in the air. She’s paved the way for afro-costarican representation.
Rayssa Leal
She was a skater girl, she said see ya later boy! Rayssa Leal became the first person to ever win the silver medal at the inaugural street skateboarding event. This Brazilian skater is only thirteen years old, proving young girls can make moves too!
Yusra Mardini
This courageous swimmer is part of the Refugee Olympic team. She left Syria by boat and swam for three hours when the boat stopped running because she felt unsafe due to the war. Today, she is an advocate to educate others and understand refugees better.
I think Beyoncé’s words can really sum it all up…girls run the world!