When International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach announced the list of 36 athletes making up the Paris 2024 Refugee Olympic Team, one particular shuttler in London erupted with joy.

For Dorsa Yavarivafa, a lifelong dream just got closer to realisation – the Iran-born will get to participate at the Olympic Games in July.

“It was the best feeling. I was shocked, I cried. I felt stressed in the build-up to the announcement. The relief after was incredible,” Yavarivafa recalled, her voice filled with emotion.

It comes almost a year after Yavarivafa, who relocated to the United Kingdom as a refugee, was selected for IOC’s Refugee Athlete Scholarship programme.

“Wow, I made it – that was my first thought,” she reminisced, her mind drifting back to that unforgettable moment on 2 May. “I was home with my parents. They were watching the live stream in another room. My name was called last and I heard my mum scream. She was on her knees crying and hugged me immediately.”

While aware of the gulf in class, Yavarivafa is determined to give a good account of herself in Paris.

“I will make everyone proud. I lost my grandfather two years ago and I was thinking how proud he would have been. I loved him, it was heartbreaking to lose him,” said the 20-year-old.

“I’m honoured to be part of the Refugee Olympic Team. This journey has been one of perseverance and hope, and I’m determined to make the most of this incredible opportunity.”

Yavarivafa has been based in the UK for four years, training at Sankey Academy after enrolling for a sports and exercise science course at Middlesex University. With the support of her coach, family and friends, Yavarivafa embraces the opportunity before her. Her goals for Paris 2024 extend beyond personal glory; she aims to inspire and pave the way for future generations of refugee athletes.

“It’s an amazing opportunity competing at my first Olympic Games,” she said. I’m 20 years old, I’m still young and there’s more to come. Hopefully, I will make it to Los Angeles 2028 as well. I’m excited and happy. I can’t wait to get started.

“I’m sure experiencing my first Olympics will motivate me for the next Olympics.”

The Refugee Athlete Scholarships are funded by the IOC through its Olympic Solidarity programme, and provide the athletes with financial support for training and competition in the lead-up to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The funding has helped Yavarivafa compete in several international tournaments from September 2023.