Egypt’s beach volleyball star and FIVB Athletes’ Commission member Doaa Elghobashy has taken on another important role in her incredible sporting career after being announced as an Athlete Role Model for the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) Dakar 2026.
Elghobashy is one of 31 athletes and Olympians selected as an Athlete Role Model for the upcoming YOG Dakar 2026, set to bring the Games to Africa for the first time, from 31 October to 13 November.
A two-time Olympian at Rio 2016 and Paris 2024, Elghobashy will bring her experience, passion and perspective to Dakar, where she will help mentor, host workshops and inspire young athletes as many of them take their first steps on the Olympic stage.
Elghobashy shot into the global limelight at the Olympic Games Rio 2016, when an image of her competing in a hijab during her opening match resonated with the world and shone a light on the beauty of diversity in sport. Since then, she has continued to make her mark both on and off the sand, including through her role as a General Assembly member of the newly formed Players Committee at the National Olympic Committee of Egypt.
A three-time FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championship competitor, Elghobashy is a pioneer and role model for women’s beach volleyball in Africa and the Middle East. She has contributed to greater inclusivity and representation in international sport, while also being a strong advocate for women’s participation and visibility in elite competition.
“Being part of Dakar 2026 as an Athlete Role Model is a proud moment in my career,” said Elghobashy. “The Youth Olympic Games are a unique platform that brings together young athletes from around the world, not only to compete but to learn, connect and grow. I hope to inspire them to stay dedicated, work hard and never give up, no matter the challenges they face. Every dream is valid if you have the courage to pursue it, because every achievement we see today was once just a dream.”
Beach volleyball will once again be a key feature of the YOG sports programme at Dakar 2026, with the sport’s growing momentum in Africa adding even greater significance to its place at the Games.
The full list of Athlete Role Models for Dakar 2026 can be found here.
