The Olympic champion in rhythmic gymnastics with the ensemble of Bulgaria from Tokyo 2020 and the winner of two silver and one bronze medal from the Winter Olympic Games in short track Evgenia Radanova took part in the forum of the World Olympians Association (WOA) in Istanbul (Turkey). The event takes place every four years.
The World Olympian Forum brings together athletes from all five continents to discuss the best ways to bring the values of the Olympic Movement to life in their communities through community service projects and events.
The event was also honored by Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, who praised the 150 Olympians from around the world who came to Istanbul for two days of discussions, debates and training.
“I was so impressed by the level of knowledge and the debate and the ideas that emerged at the World Olympians Forum,” said Imamoglu, who delivered a keynote speech as part of the official opening ceremony along with welcome video messages from H.V. Prince Albert II of Monaco, Honorary President of WOA, and by IOC President Thomas Bach.
WOA President Joel Bouzou was very pleased with the topics discussed.
“This was the best World Olympian Forum ever and shows how far we have come in the last eight years, the level of maturity our National Olympian Associations have achieved and the ability of Olympians around the world to help social cohesion by bringing sport to disadvantaged communities, protecting the environment and teaching our young citizens the positive values of sport and the Olympic movement,” he said.
Our Olympic champion Stefani Kiryakova also expressed her satisfaction with her participation in the forum and stated that the main goals for all participants are to inspire the next generation of athletes.
“I am glad to have been part of the World Olympians Forum 2023. To have participated in the Olympic Games is a great achievement, but also a great calling. Now our main goals are to inspire the next generation of athletes and support them in their unique journey. It was great to be in one room with so many Olympians, each with their own story, hardships and journey. We are united by the feeling that we are one family and that we can have a positive influence in our society. Thank you to the President of the International Association of Olympians, Joel Busey, who personally presented me on the “OLY” badge, which is a way of recognizing Olympians. Once an Olympian – forever an Olympian! “, said Stefani Kiryakova.
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