Role models chosen for Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics

Approximately forty athletes have been selected to serve as role models during the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games. These athletes will support and guide younger competitors, sharing their experiences and insights.

Surfer Michel Bourez joins the initiative

Surfer Michel Bourez, who participated in the debut of surfing at the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Games, is among the selected role models. He will travel to Senegal, where he will stay from October 30 to November 3, and has shared his thoughts on the role with the French sports magazine Francs Jeux.

Bourez called on by surfing federation

Bourez was directly contacted by the International Surfing Association (ISA), which proposed he take on the role. He described the opportunity as a beautiful recognition and a chance to share his experiences with young people, emphasizing the importance of passing on knowledge and support.

Bourez emphasizes honesty and vulnerability

Bourez clarified that being a role model is not about being perfect, but about being available, listening, and openly discussing one’s journey. He noted that people often only see the successes of athletes, not the struggles, doubts, or losses that come with the sport.

Bourez wants to inspire through effort and passion

He hopes to inspire young athletes by emphasizing the value of effort, confidence, and the joy of practicing a sport. He shared that while results are not always in one’s control, the way one prepares, reacts to defeat, and maintains a positive attitude is crucial.

Bourez excited about his first visit to Senegal

This will be Bourez’s first visit to Senegal, and he is looking forward to meeting people, discovering their daily lives, and learning about their relationship with the ocean. He sees this as an opportunity not only to share but also to learn from others.

Youth Olympics as a transformative experience

Bourez described the Youth Olympic Games as a unique chance to have an Olympic experience, meet young people from other countries, and discover new sports. He believes these encounters can be life-changing and encourages young athletes to embrace the opportunity.

Personal connection to Africa’s first Olympic event

Participating in the first Olympic event in Africa’s history has special meaning for Bourez, who comes from a small Pacific island. He expressed pride in supporting young athletes and highlighted the significance of hosting such an event in Senegal, a country with rich culture and youth potential.

Surfing’s role in the event and its future

Surfing is included as a sport for engagement, and Bourez sees the event as a chance to promote the sport in Africa. He emphasized the importance of ensuring young people can continue practicing surfing after the event, with access to equipment and proper training.