The 2024 Paralympic Games opened on August 28th in Paris with a historic opening ceremony taking place from the Champs-Elysées to Place de la Concorde, showcasing the world’s best Paralympic athletes and the values they embody. The tone was set for an inspiring and unforgettable Games. This year, the city of Light and Love has become a global stage for many of the most inspiring and talented athletes across the globe, compete until September 8th to show the world the power and beauty of diversity.
Among these extraordinary competitors, we’re especially proud of our UTS Young Leaders, Husnah Kukundakwe and Ezra Frech. Both athletes are in Paris right now, representing their countries and chasing their dreams.
Husnah Kukundakwe: From Uganda to Paris
At just 17, Husnah Kukundakwe is already a remarkable figure in Para-swimming. Born without her right forearm and starting her swimming journey at just three years old, this Ugandan athlete has defied the odds in a country where Para sports were until more recent times unheard of.
Despite her young age, Husnah is already making waves. She was the youngest athlete at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, competing at just 14 years old. She also showcased her talent at the London 2019 and Manchester 2023 World Championships, reaching the finals and earning silver medals at the World Para Swimming World Series. She holds multiple records in Africa, cementing her status as a top para-athlete in the region. At the Paris 2024 Paralympics, Husnah is competing in three key events: she already swam in the Women’s 100m Breaststroke SB8 on August 30, and will compete in the 50m Freestyle S8 on September 5, followed by the Women’s 100m Butterfly S8 on September 7. We invite everyone to tune in and support Husnah as she represents Uganda with pride and determination!
Beyond her achievements in the pool, Husnah’s journey is about breaking stereotypes. Once self-conscious about her arm, she now proudly steps onto the global stage, inspiring others in Uganda and beyond. Her confidence grew after attending Para swimming competitions, where she found a community of athletes like herself, which transformed her outlook on life. In 2022, she actively participated in the UTS World Youth Festival in Bangkok, where alongside fellow UTS Young Leaders, they took to the stage to inspire youth from around the world with her story, encouraging youth to pursue their dreams regardless of the challenges they face. A champion of young girls and women, Husnah’s journey is just beginning and already she has achieved what many dream of. Husnah is blossoming day by day as she shares her life and humour on her social media. Her growing following is a testament to her dedication to do more, give everything and never give up!
Ezra Frech: Chasing Gold in Paris
At 19, Ezra Frech is already a household name in Paralympic track and field. In fact, he is a household name beyond the Paralympics. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Ezra has captured global attention with his determination, talent, and ambitions. Competing in the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics at just 16, Ezra was the youngest male athlete on the U.S. Paralympic team. Last year, he made history by winning his first senior world title in high jump, breaking the world record in the T63 division.
Now, he’s back on the big stage in Paris, more determined than ever to claim gold. Over the past 100 days, Ezra has been uniquely sharing his journey to Paris on Instagram. In pure Ezra style, he shares with his huge following a glimpse into his relentless pursuit of excellence. His goal is clear: a gold in Paris.
Ezra is competing in three key events. He has already completed the Men’s Long Jump – T63 on August 31 already achieving his personal best. Next, he will compete in the Men’s 100m – T63 on September 1 and 2, followed by the Men’s High Jump – T63 on September 3. We invite everyone to tune in and witness his incredible performance!
Ezra’s drive comes from a deep desire not just to win but to change the world’s perception of disabilities. Born with congenital limb differences: missing his left knee, left fibula, and some of the fingers on his left hand, Ezra always knew about the opportunities available in adaptive sports. This awareness, combined with his extraordinary work ethic, has propelled him to the top of his field. Ezra is co-founder of Angel City Sports, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit that provides year-round adaptive sports opportunities for people with physical disabilities or visual impairments. Through this organization, he’s leading form the heart and creating a more inclusive world, where everyone has the chance to participate in sports, regardless of their physical abilities.
Alongside Husnah, Ezra played a significant role at the 2022 UTS World Youth Festival in Bangkok, where he inspired youth from around the world by sharing his story and demonstrating that anything is possible, no matter the obstacles. He shared his life story, he coached sessions, he stood proudly with and for the other athletes and captured everyone’s heart with his kindness.
Ezra Frech is not just competing for medals; he’s striving to leave a lasting impact on the world. He wants his legacy to be remembered as the greatest Paralympian of all time, someone who changed the way the Paralympics are viewed, normalized disability on a global scale, and served as a powerful example of what is possible as an amputee.
Wishing both shining stars the best of these games. We invite and encourage you to follow our incredible athletes as they take on the world stage, and let’s show all athletes our support as they represent the spirit of the Paralympic Games!
