Dame Sophie Pascoe has inspired generations of New Zealanders with her achievements in the swimming pool. As a Westpac New Zealand ambassador, she’s now inspiring wāhine with her words.

Sophie’s journey to becoming our most successful Paralympian was anything but straightforward. After losing her left leg below the knee in an accident aged just 2, her growing reputation as a swimmer was clouded by self-doubt and her fear of being seen as “different” by her peers. By learning the power of positive talk, setting goals and working relentlessly to achieve them, Sophie has overcome adversity to become not just a sporting icon but a role model for young New Zealanders.

Now with support from Westpac, Sophie is helping young people around the country embrace their own differences and reach for the stars through her Dare To Dream programme. She talks to groups of students about finding what motivates them, developing their own goals and working towards them, while tackling common challenges of mental health and pressures of the online world.

We’re proud to be working with Sophie to drive real change in young New Zealanders’ lives and inspire them to be the best they can be.

Sophie will be speaking to Rangi Ruru families on Wednesday, March 1 in the Gibson Centre from 7pm to 8pm.

Whilst this is a free event, a koha for charity will be collected during the event. Registrations are essential as places are limited. Book here.

Note: SOAR students have a separate event with Sophie, so please do not book SOAR students for the evening event.