Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce: Athletes have power to change the world

In an article published on Laureus last month, Shelly-Ann said that she believe not only that sport has the power to change the world, but that athletes do. 

"Our influence in the world around us can be more significant than any of us imagine today – and it could last well beyond our final race, or goal, or jump. Together, we can be a force for good in the world around us. And that can start with the example we set, both on and off the field of play," she wrote.

"We are all competitors, but when we compete we should show respect for our sport – for the rules, for our opponents and for the people who cheer us on. Sport is in our hearts, and we should show the world that it is fun and inclusive. Sport has a unique power to speak to young people, and its message should always be a positive one."

Shelly-Ann added that athletes must acknowledge and embrace the platform they have as athletes in the digital age.

"This is a power and a responsibility that is new to our generation. If we see a need for change in our sport or our society, we should speak out. And we must also enact that change ourselves – by using our profile and our platform to engage with the issues closest to our hearts. 

"Today, we have the power to change the world in a way that the champions who came before us did not. If we recognise this opportunity and act together, then our achievements as sportswomen and men will only be the beginning of our legacies," she added.

Source & main image: Laureus