SOPHIA PAPAMICHALOPOULOS

“There's always a path; you just need the determination and creativity to discover it, and the courage to walk it. Once you reach your destination, you pave the way for other women to follow.”

Meet Sophia Papamichalopoulos OLY, a former athlete and Olympic alpine skier from Cyprus. Sophia is an IOC Young Leader and the founder of a peace-building sport project called Winds of Change, working towards a better future for athletes. She is currently pursuing a career in general surgery.

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

“It's crucial for women to strive for leadership roles in the sports industry because in their absence, the playing field remains unbalanced, hindering the industry from reaching its full potential for development.”

WOMEN EMPOWER WOMEN

“Women bring unique perspectives, insights, and experiences that enrich decision-making processes and drive innovation. By leading in the industry, women not only empower more women, but also inspire the next generation of female athletes and professionals, creating a more equitable and representative landscape in both sports and society.”

TRAILBLAZERS IN SPORT

“Women embody the courage to challenge norms, the determination to exceed limits, and the resilience to persist despite setbacks, obstacles, injuries, and criticism, steadfast in their convictions. The narratives of trailblazers like Billie Jean King, Lindsey Vonn, Serena Williams, and Megan Rapinoe pave a path of inspiration for young women.”

NOTHING IN BEYOND REACH

“The message I aim to impart is that nothing is beyond reach. With determination, creativity, and courage, any obstacle can be overcome. There's always a path; you just need the determination and creativity to discover it, and the courage to walk it. Once you reach your destination, you pave the way for other women to follow.”