I had the honour and privilege of experiencing my first Special Olympics World Winter Games as a Sargent Shriver Global Messenger (SSGM) during the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy, March 8-15. These Games were truly the best experience ever and one that I will cherish forever. I got to see the determination, courage, and joy that athletes have competing in their sports while making friendships along the way.
As an SSGM, I was able to take my leadership skills to a whole new level, allowing me to learn and grow. Throughout the Games, I had many speaking engagements that I never thought would be possible.
- I had the opportunity to speak at the Global Youth Leadership Summit and led a fun icebreaker.
- I spoke on the mountain during the Motor Activities Training Program (MATP) ski demonstration.
- I served as co-emcee (on ice!) for the Founder's Reception.
- I led a tour of Healthy Athletes.
- I spoke on stage with my fellow SSGMs for the Closing Ceremony.
I was able to step out of my comfort zone and speak on behalf of athletes everywhere. It was truly a dream come true.
I had so much fun connecting with people and I even got to practice my Mandarin skills! My confidence grew, and I was a different person from the shy person I was a few years ago. One of my proudest moments throughout the Games was being awarded the King Charles 111 Coronation Medal, which recognizes a Canadian who made a significant contribution to the community. I received this medal at the Team Canada reception, and it was a total surprise. I wasn’t expecting to receive the award and was in awe when I was invited to come on stage.
Even though there were many ups and downs throughout the week, I developed the strength and knowledge to persevere and to keep a positive mindset. A positive mindset goes a long way. I took many deep breaths throughout the week and always reminded myself to have fun. We were always on the go and sometimes would have 14-hour days. Before every engagement, my mentor and I would practice the night before to make sure I was ready for the next day, which helped boost my confidence. There were definitely late nights, but it was all worth it.
Every SSGM had their own speaking engagements for the day, and the group was mostly separated. However, sometimes we would all come together and have so much fun together. I remember having a snowball fight with the SSGMs on the mountain and ice skating together during the Founder's Reception. We bonded just like a family, and we were sad to say goodbye.
I learned so much from these Games that I’m excited to take back to my community in British Columbia. Being able to come together with inspiring athlete leaders from around the world is an experience that I will cherish forever and I’m so grateful to have had this opportunity.
