Nélia Barbosa, Paralympic vice-champion in paracanoeing

Nélia Barbosa was born on October 8, 1998 in Lisbon. Paralympic vice-champion, world vice-champion and European vice-champion in paracanoe, She is one of the great hopes of Paris 2024.

Nélia was only one year old when doctors diagnosed her with neurofibromatosis in the ankle. The disease progressed and led to a leg amputation in 2017, when she was 18. Earlier, in 2012, she developed a passion for canoeing and competed in her first able-bodied races. Following her amputation, she pursued her sporting dream, winning a silver medal at the Tokyo Paralympic Games in 2021.

Alongside her sporting achievements, Nélia Barbosa is actively involved in social initiatives aimed at promoting the inclusion of people with disabilities in sport. She uses her platform to raise awareness of the challenges faced by Paralympic athletes and encourages diversity and equal opportunities.

Nélia continues her efforts every day and pushes herself to the limit. Her dedication, mental strength, and positive attitude make her an example to all. She is a true source of inspiration to overcome obstacles and achieve her dreams.

We had the pleasure of interviewing her to look back on her beginnings and tell us about the origins of her success. Searching for a physical activity that suited her, Nélia began kayaking at the age of 12, while discovering it at summer camp. Despite her amputation, she continued to practice it by adapting her navigation style.

Later, under the wise guidance of her coaches, she considered competing in the Paralympic Games. She then became interested in the high-level course and its demands. Her rise was meteoric. Nélia distinguished herself several times internationally and won her first world and Paralympic medals.

Preparing for the 2024 Olympics: Physical and mental preparation

She attributes her performance to her team. Her strength and conditioning coach, trainer, and personal circle are the keys to her success. She relies on them in good times and bad.

After Career:

Finally, we discussed post-career, a question that often comes up for elite athletes. Although she's still in the early stages of her career, Nélia is already thinking long-term. Alongside her career, she's pursuing graphic design studies, which allows her to capitalize on her love of drawing and comics. Aware that her two passions, sport and art, allow her to convey messages to as many people as possible, she wants to share her experiences to break down barriers to disability and make a difference.

Patrick Koune
In collaboration with Crescendo Management

Acknowledgments:
– Claudie Pierlot
– Michel Herbelin
– Maison Albar Hotels – Le Vendome – Paris