#Archives - 2008 : Cathy Freeman - From Olympic glory to empowering Indigenous youth (In English)

Sydney 2000 Freeman Flying The Flag

FILE - In this Sept. 25, 2000, file photo, Australia's Cathy Freeman celebrates winning the women's 400 meter race at the Summer Olympics at Olympic Stadium in Sydney. Freeman ignited the Olympic flame to open the Sydney 2000 Games and returned 10 nights later to win a gold medal in the 400 meters that had been a long time in waiting for country. She was the first Aboriginal person from Australia to win an individual Olympic gold. And she celebrated in a bare-foot victory lap with an Australian flag and the red, black and yellow Australian Aboriginal flag together in her hand. (AP Photo/Thomas Kienzle, File) Credit: AP

(In English) : Cathy Freeman shares her journey from Olympic gold medallist to advocate for Indigenous youth, emphasising the importance of heritage, resilience, and education through her foundation.


In this 2008 archive, Cathy Freeman, Australian Olympic gold medalist, shares her remarkable journey from the track to her current role as an advocate for Indigenous youth. She discusses the highlights of her career and her work with the Cathy Freeman Foundation, which focuses on empowering Indigenous girls through education and personal development.

Well, the ultimate, this is my point, the ultimate happiness, I think, is dreaming. It's like if your soul, if your heart is telling you this is what makes you happiest, you know

Cathy’s story is deeply rooted in her Indigenous heritage, which has significantly shaped her identity and vision for the future. She speaks of the strength and guidance she draws from her ancestors, a connection she wishes to instil in the girls she mentors. This connection to her roots has been a source of resilience and empowerment throughout her life.

The Cathy Freeman Foundation is dedicated to creating supportive environments for Indigenous girls, emphasising the importance of education to unlock their potential. Cathy believes that by providing these opportunities, the foundation can help these girls achieve their dreams and positively contribute to their communities. Her message encourages listeners to embrace their identity and draw strength from their personal history to shape a better future.


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