The power of role models - by Susan Seipel
A role model is someone whose behaviours serve as an example to others. Role models can provide ‘proof’ that it is possible to achieve one’s dreams by demonstrating that a potential goal is attainable. Role models are powerful because they can influence others, and many people with disability can be considered excellent role models.
I had the honour of meeting one such role model, who had a powerful influence on my journey. Her name was Brita Andersen, and she was a para-equestrian athlete from Denmark. The Danish Para-equestrian Team was in Australia preparing for the Sydney 2000 Paralympics and I was one of a few, very lucky young riders, who got to attend their training camp.
Brita was an exceptional rider that I admired and I wanted to be just like her. At the debut of Para-equestrian sport at the 1996 Atlanta Paralympic Games, she won gold and silver medals. At the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games, she achieved two silver medals. She was in the same classification as I was, so she was my direct competitor, although I never ended up competing against her.
At the training camp, Brita gave me part of her official uniform that she wore at the Atlanta Paralympics and told me to ‘wear it when I competed at my first Paralympic games’. Hearing those words of encouragement from my idol had such a big impact on me because at the time they signified a belief that I could follow in her footsteps.
And Brita was right, I did follow my dreams and become a Paralympian but not in the sport of para-equestrian. Similar to Brita, I represented my country at the debut of para-canoe at the 2016 Rio Paralympics.
Brita was an inspirational role model and I have never forgotten her powerful positive influence on my journey. Positive role models are so important to encourage future generations in all of life’s endeavours. If my story resonates with you, please share a comment below!
About the Author:
Susan Seipel is a diverse para-athlete with a background in swimming, and equestrian, and is a triple World Champion in the sport of Paracanoe.
She won a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games and was the first Australian in history to win a medal in Paracanoe at the Paralympic level. At the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games, Susan won a silver medal in the inaugural women’s canoe event. She is currently training for Paris 2024.
Outside of sports, Susan is a proud ambassador for RSPCA Queensland and is passionate about animal welfare. She is also studying Psychology at university.
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