Inspiring resilience: Leadership lessons from Refugee Olympics Athletes

Human + Kind = Humankind – Dr. Joshua Awesome

Four years ago, I received my permanent resident certificate. Although my South African identity document followed a year later, the memory of being robbed at OR Tambo International Airport upon my return to South Africa is still vivid. This incident led to my wrongful labelling as “undesirable,” a deeply traumatic experience that forever changed my perspective on statelessness and the plight of refugees.

In the face of adversity, I discovered a wellspring of strength and resilience. This personal ordeal mirrored the daily struggles faced by countless refugees, igniting my resolve to advocate for those who lack a voice. I owe immense gratitude to the United Nations Refugee Centre for their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts in supporting refugees worldwide. This experience reinforced the importance of treating statelessness with the utmost seriousness. Every person, above all else, is a human being deserving of dignity and respect.

The creation of the “Refugee Olympics Team” by Local Olympics Committee (LOC) President Thomas Bach in 2015 embodies this principle. This initiative, which aimed to include athletes forced to flee their countries, resulted in the first-ever Refugee Olympics Team of 10 competing at the 2016 Olympics. At the Tokyo Olympics, 29 refugee athletes represented the team. The Paris Olympics 2024 will play host to the third Refugee Olympics Team, consisting of 37 athletes competing, exemplifying the spirit of resilience and unity in supporting the 100 million refugees worldwide.

The Refugee Olympics Team stands as a powerful testament to the human spirit and the grit required to overcome unimaginable obstacles. These athletes, who have endured so much, remind us of the indomitable strength within us all. They compete not just for medals but for recognition, dignity, and hope. Their stories provide valuable leadership lessons that can inspire us all in our personal and professional lives.

Some leadership lessons

1. Resilience in adversity

The athletes on the Refugee Olympics Team have faced immense challenges and have persevered against all odds. As leaders, we must cultivate resilience, learning to navigate setbacks with determination and grace. Resilience isn’t just about enduring hardship but about emerging stronger and more focused.

Actionable advice: Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Develop a mindset that views obstacles as temporary and surmountable. Regularly reflect on past challenges and how you overcame them to build confidence and resilience for future difficulties.

2. Inclusivity and diversity

The creation of the Refugee Olympics Team highlights the importance of inclusivity and diversity. By recognising and valuing diverse backgrounds and experiences, we can foster a richer, more innovative environment. Inclusivity isn’t just a moral imperative; it’s a strategic advantage.

Actionable advice: Actively seek to include diverse voices in decision-making processes. Create spaces where everyone feels valued and heard. Implement policies that promote diversity and inclusivity within your organisation.

3. Empathy and compassion

The stories of refugee athletes underscore the necessity of empathy and compassion in leadership. Understanding and addressing the needs of others can build stronger, more cohesive teams and communities.

Actionable advice: Practice active listening to understand the perspectives and experiences of others. Show genuine care and concern for your team members’ well-being. Regularly engage in activities that promote empathy, such as community service or mentoring.

4. Vision and Purpose

The Refugee Olympics Team’s journey is driven by a clear vision and purpose — competing not just for medals but for recognition and hope. As leaders, having a clear vision and purpose can inspire and guide our actions, motivating those around us to strive for excellence.

Actionable advice: Clearly articulate your vision and purpose to your team. Ensure that your goals align with your core values and the greater good. Regularly revisit and refine your vision to keep it relevant and inspiring.

As we cheer for these incredible athletes, let their stories ignite a fire within us. Their perseverance should inspire us to take action. Every small effort counts — advocating for refugee rights, supporting organisations that provide aid, or simply spreading awareness about the refugee crisis.

Together, we can make a difference. We can embody the true spirit of the Olympics — unity, peace, and humanity. Let’s stand with refugees, showing them that they are not alone and that the world is filled with kindness and compassion. Let us remember that being human means showing empathy and support for one another, and that every action we take towards inclusivity and understanding brings us closer to the true essence of humankind.

Call to action: Embrace the spirit of “Human + Kind = Humankind.” Let us each play our part in fostering a world where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Join me in supporting refugees and advocating for a more inclusive and compassionate society. Together, we can make a profound impact — one act of kindness at a time.

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