Oleksandra Paskal Meets Brazil’s National Artistic Gymnastics Team During the Dance of Freedom World Tour

Young Ukrainian gymnast Oleksandra Paskal has arrived in Rio de Janeiro. Brazil became the next stop on her Dance of Freedom world tour.

Sasha was given an unforgettable day in Rio. She visited the training center where the country’s Olympic athletes prepare and also met in person with Brazil’s most decorated Olympic champion, Rebeca Andrade, and her teammates on the national artistic gymnastics team.

For Oleksandra, this meeting was particularly special. Since childhood, she had dreamed of competing at the Olympic Games. But after her injury, her main goal is to qualify for the Paralympic Games and represent Ukraine. The girl hopes that rhythmic gymnastics will be included in the program of the 2032 Paralympic Games. If that happens, she will have a chance to compete in them.

“I am thrilled! I will remember this day forever. It is so great to be here and meet the athletes. It motivates me to keep training,” says Sasha.

During her visit to Rio, the gymnast also visited the city’s famous favelas, walked along the Atlantic coast, met local residents, and experienced the city’s unique atmosphere.

“I really like Rio de Janeiro. There are so many smiling people here, and I felt their support,” Oleksandra says.

Today, videos of Sasha’s performances receive millions of views, and the young gymnast’s story inspires people around the world. After losing her leg as a result of a russian missile strike, she returned to gymnastics.

Oleksandra will next travel to Nairobi (Kenya) and Tokyo (Japan).

The international Dance of Freedom project is implemented by the Rinat Akhmetov Foundation with the support of FC Shakhtar to mark the 35th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence. Its goal is to draw the world’s attention to Ukrainian children and Ukraine’s struggle for freedom.