We are so thrilled to have Elisabeth Walker-Young back as one of
our ambassador’s for the Dress for Success Vancouver Power Walk 2013! As an
active contributor to the community, Elisabeth Walker-Young is an inspiration
to us all.
Elisabeth has made a huge impact
in the Paralympic community and radiates commitment and determination. Recently,
Elisabeth played a crucial role in the London 2012 Paralympic Games as Canada’s
Assistant Chef de Mission. Bringing an athlete-centred
perspective to this core leadership role, Elisabeth contributed to the planning
and delivery of operations in London, proudly supporting all members of Team
Canada both on and off the field of play.
Elisabeth has been monumental to the
contribution of promoting the Paralympic Movement. In London, Walker-Young
served as CTV’s English language commentator for the broadcasts of both the
Opening and Closing Ceremonies. This was a perfect platform for her to share
her passion and expertise for parasport with Canadian audiences. In addition,
Elisabeth acted as a liaison with the Canadian Paralympic Committee's (CPC)
corporate and government partners during the Games. Elisabeth’s active social
media presence allowed her to contribute to the influence and connection with
Canadians and the sport community.
As a result of her role in the London
Paralympic Games, the Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women and
Sport (CAAWS) named Elisabeth one of the Most
Influential Women of 2012. Additionally, she was a recipient of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medal, recognized
as an athlete and builder.
Elisabeth was a 13-year member of the
Canadian Paralympic Swim Team, having represented Canada
at 4 Summer Paralympic Games from Barcelona 1992 through to Athens 2004. Throughout her swimming career, she broke
numerous Canadian and World records, bringing home 6 Paralympic medals (3 gold,
1 silver and 2 bronze) while having the opportunity to use her leadership
skills as team captain for more than half of her career.
Following her athletics career,
Elisabeth took everything she learned as a professional athlete and focused on
a career path in sport management. From the development, management, and
evaluation of program and events, Elisabeth continually challenges herself and
others in raising the bar.
Elisabeth is an advocate for healthy
living and enjoys teaching spin classes which allows her to share her love and
knowledge of an active, healthy lifestyle with her class participants. A resident
of Deep Cove, Elisabeth loves hiking, walking, running and snowshoeing in the
trails with her husband, Ian and her dog, Joey.
We are so excited to partner with such an
amazing and inspirational woman. Join Elisabeth and Dress for Success Vancouver for The Power Walk 2013!
