As 2024 draws to a close, Athletes for Hope (AFH) is proud to honor the outstanding athletes who have exemplified excellence, leadership, and community impact throughout the year. These individuals have not only achieved remarkable feats in their respective sports but have also dedicated themselves to uplifting others and making a positive difference in the world.
Athlete of the Year: Sifan Hassan
Dutch middle- and long-distance runner Sifan Hassan has been named AFH’s Athlete of the Year for 2024. Hassan’s exceptional performance at the Paris Olympics, where she secured a gold medal in the marathon and two bronze medals in the 5,000 and 10,000 meters, showcased her unparalleled athleticism and determination. Beyond her athletic achievements, Hassan’s journey from a refugee to an Olympic champion serves as an inspiring testament to resilience and perseverance.
Community Impact Award: Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi
Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, Executive Director of Nigeria’s FAME Foundation, has been honored with the Community Impact Award. Aderonke’s tireless efforts in using sports as a tool for social and environmental change have positively impacted countless lives across Africa. Her leadership in promoting gender equality, education, and health through sports exemplifies the transformative power of athletic engagement.
Emerging Athlete of the Year: Letsile Tebogo
Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo has been recognized as the Emerging Athlete of the Year. At just 21 years old, Tebogo made history by becoming the first African to win an Olympic gold medal in the men’s 200 meters at the Paris Games. His groundbreaking performance not only elevated his status in the athletics world but also inspired a new generation of athletes across the continent.
Athlete Mental Health Advocate of the Year: Natasha Hastings
Two-time Olympic gold medalist Natasha Hastings has been named Athlete Mental Health Advocate of the Year. As a licensed counselor associate and ambassador for AFH’s Whole Being Athlete program, Hastings has been instrumental in promoting mental health awareness and support within the athletic community. Her advocacy efforts during the inaugural Athlete Mental Health Week in May 2024 underscored her commitment to fostering well-being among athletes at all levels.
Lifetime Achievement Award: Tony Estanguet
French canoe slalom champion and Paris 2024 Olympic Games organizer Tony Estanguet has been honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Estanguet’s illustrious career, marked by three Olympic gold medals, and his visionary leadership in bringing the Olympic Games to Paris have left an indelible mark on the world of sports. His dedication to excellence and his role in uniting communities through sport exemplify the enduring impact of athletic leadership.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate the achievements of these remarkable individuals, AFH remains committed to supporting athletes who use their platforms to inspire change and make a difference. Through programs like Causeway, Whole Being Athlete, and the Athlete Mental Health Alliance, AFH continues to empower athletes to lead with purpose and passion. We look forward to another year of collaboration, growth, and impact as we work together to harness the power of sport for good.
Join Us in Celebrating
We invite the global community to join us in celebrating the accomplishments of these outstanding athletes. Their dedication, resilience, and commitment to excellence serve as an inspiration to us all. Let us continue to support and uplift those who strive to make the world a better place through the power of sport.
