Flame Bearers

“They call me the Queen of Blades because I’ve won medals on three different blades.” Kimberly Alkemade isn’t just fast—she’s transformative. From surviving a traumatic bus accident in France to standing on top of the podium in the same country decades later, Kimberly has rewritten her story of loss into one of power, healing, and purpose. “The sky turned orange,” she recalls of her golden moment at the 2024 World Para Athletics Championships in Paris. “That’s the moment I’ll always remember. It felt like Mama was there." According to Kimberly, winning in France, where she lost her Mother and leg years earlier, was the "best therapy possible" In this episode of Flame Bearers: UNEDITED, Kimberly shares how she went from seeking basic information at a Paralympic talent day in 2017 to becoming a world record-holding sprinter (twice over) and Paralympic medalist. That said, her journey isn’t just about her speed on the track; it’s about access, resilience, and advocacy. “Insurance doesn’t provide a sports prosthetic,” she explains, highlighting one of the biggest barriers facing para athletes. “You need to start crowdfunding or go to a foundation. That’s a worldwide problem.” Now stepping away from elite competition, Kimberly is channeling her energy into her new social enterprise, Moving for Growth, aimed at making performance sports more accessible for people with disabilities. “We’re building a new infrastructure so that athletes can chase their dreams—just like I did.” Her message? “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You’re not alone.” From bronze to gold, from heartbreak to healing, Kimberly’s journey reminds us what it means to rise—on any blade. ---- Flame Bearers is a media production company, celebrating exceptional women athletes. We tell stories via podcast, video and live events and have worked with over 270 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► /@flamebearers Follow us - Instagram - /flamebearers Facebook - /flamebearerspodcast LinkedIn - /flame-bearers TikTok - /flame_bearers X - /flame_bearers Our Website - https://flamebearers.com/ If you like the content, subscribe to our channel! 

“Why am I doing this? Who am I doing this for?” Olympic swimmer Kayla Sanchez asks the question that every elite athlete eventually faces—and answers it with heart. After winning medals for Team Canada at Tokyo 2020, Kayla made the bold move to represent the Philippines, honoring her roots and deepening her connection to family, identity, and purpose. For Kayla, swimming for the Philippines isn’t just a career decision—it’s a personal one. “Both my parents are Filipino,” she shares. “They immigrated to Canada when I was three, but I was nurtured pretty Filipino.” Whether she’s watching Manny Pacquiao fights, gathering for big family meals, or breaking Filipino national records, Kayla is fueled by her community’s pride. “It meant so much to my family. Even though I was raised in Canada, I’ve always felt close to my Filipino side—and now I get to represent that on the world stage.” Now a student-athlete at the University of British Columbia, Kayla reflects on navigating intense pressure, burnout, and the emotional weight of change. “I think it taught me to be more independent. It taught me to vouch for myself.” She’s found new joy in swimming, racing alongside her varsity teammates while still gunning for LA 2028. Her advice? “Trust your gut. Vouch for yourself. And I’m cheering for you.” Flame Bearers is a multi media movement, illuminating the unsung stories of elite women athletes from around the world. We tell stories via podcast, video and live events and have worked with over 270 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► /@flamebearers Follow us – Instagram - /flamebearers Facebook - /flamebearerspodcast LinkedIn - /flame-bearers TikTok - /flame_bearers X - /flame_bearers Our Website– https://flamebearers.com/ 

“I would tell my younger self: don’t let people tell you your worth…you’re the only one in your body—you know best.” Angélina Lanza is a 2x European champion, World Championship medalist, and 3x Paralympic finalist in track and field for France. In today's conversation, Angélina talks about the highs and lows of her athletic career, including ongoing injuries, losing her mother just before the Tokyo Games, and the everyday challenges of being a woman in para sport. “I had an injury nearly every year. Every time I had to ask, ‘What’s the lesson this time?’” She shares how sport helped her navigate personal grief: “I put all my energy—and my anger and sadness—into training. I didn’t have another choice.” Angélina also speaks honestly about gender inequities in sport, especially around appearance, pay, and visibility. “When you’re at the start line, you shouldn’t be worried about your outfit or what people might see on camera.” She also critiques unequal treatment in prize money and gear: “Men would get prize money; women would get cute gifts.” We also discuss the confidence she gained through para athletics: “I used to hate my body. I didn’t understand why I had muscles. Now I see my body as the tool that helps me perform.” Her message to listeners? “Think about your goals. What’s stopping you? Just start.” Photo provided by Angélina -------- Flame Bearers is a multi media movement, illuminating the unsung stories of elite women athletes from around the world. We tell stories via podcast, video and live events and have worked with over 270 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► / @flamebearers Follow us - Instagram - / flamebearers Facebook - / flamebearerspodcast Linkedin - / flame-bearers Tiktok - / flame_bearers X - / flame_bearers Out Website - https://flamebearers.com/ Leave a comment and tell us what you liked in the video. If you like the content, do subscribe to our channel! 

"We won in Paris by winning every day." For Asia Hogan-Rochester, rugby wasn’t part of the plan — until it became their world. The Toronto native went from going to gym class in jeans to standing on the Olympic podium, silver medal in hand. Asia shares how growing up, "I wasn't an athlete. My sport was yapping." But, at 17, Asia picked up a rugby ball. Their friend's older sister (now teammate), Charity Williams, had returned to high school with an Olympic medal and as Asia shares, “I finally saw someone from my community who looked like me — and who believed I could do this, too.” That moment ignited a spark that became a fire for Asia, and after seeing the power of a role model firsthand, they hope to be that person for others. "Rugby is for everyone." Asia goes a step further, encouraging individuals to stop waiting and to get in the game. “If you’re waiting to see someone who looks like you, stop waiting. Be that person for someone else.” While Asia has had incredible success, they have also had quite a few setbacks including a devastating ACL tear that nearly sidelined their Olympic dreams. But with grit (and glitter), Asia came back stronger, helping Canada qualify for the Paris Games and eventually stand toe-to-toe with powerhouses like New Zealand. In our conversation, Asia opens up about injury recovery, mental health, and the power of representation. She urges you to not “wait to be confident." Whether scoring tries or growing their social media presence, Asia is proof that you can shine — both on the field and off. Their ask? “If you’ve thought about trying rugby…this is your sign. Do it.” --------------- Flame Bearers is a multi media movement, illuminating the unsung stories of exceptional women athletes from around the world. We tell stories via podcast, video and live events and have worked with over 270 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► / @flamebearers Follow us - Instagram - / flamebearers Facebook - / flamebearerspodcast LinkedIn - / flame-bearers TikTok - / flame_bearers X - / flame_bearers Our Website - https://flamebearers.com/ 

“I’m the player’s eyes. I’m the player’s mind. If I mess up, I mess up the whole game.” For Ritah Asiimwe, there are no excuses—it's go-time. A Ugandan Paralympian, African Para-Badminton Champion, line judge, and unstoppable single mom, Ritah is writing her own rules. When not competing herself, she’s called the lines for the world’s top eight players on the biggest stages, standing tall with confidence and nerves of steel. “Every point matters. They’re fighting for everything, and I have to be right there with them.” In this episode, Ritah shares what it takes to juggle elite sport, officiating, motherhood, and a full-time job. She shares a bit about her pregnancy journey: while two months pregnant, Ritah competed at the World Championships, Dubai, and Egypt. At six months pregnant, she trained without hesitation. “Every female athlete should know: It’s okay to show up pregnant, to play, to run, to keep going.” She opens up about mental toughness, self-love, and taking charge of your own destiny. “Nobody else is going to do what you’re supposed to do. It’s on you.” Her mantra? Start now. Whether she’s preparing for LA 2028, pushing African athletes to see line judging as a career, or simply encouraging others to bet on themselves, Ritah is living proof: there are no limits when your mind and heart are all in. ------ Flame Bearers is a multimedia movement, illuminating the unsung stories of elite women athletes from around the world. We tell stories via podcast, video and live events and have worked with over 270 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► / @flamebearers Follow us: Instagram - / flamebearers Facebook - / flamebearerspodcast LinkedIn - / flame-bearers TikTok - / flame_bearers X - / flame_bearers OUR WEBSITE - https://flamebearers.com/ Leave a comment and tell us what you liked in the video. If you like the content, do subscribe to our channel! 

"Can't and won't are just words. Nobody can predict what you will be able to do tomorrow. You write your own story." Fran Brown is not here to be your inspiration—she’s here to win. A Paralympic cyclist, physiotherapist, and former Para Climbing World Champ, Fran refuses to let anyone else define her journey. From a childhood spent scaling cliffs in Cornwall to an accident that reshaped her path, she’s written her own story on her own terms. After a spinal cord injury changed her physical abilities, Fran didn’t just return to climbing—she dominated, becoming a Para Climbing World Champion. But that wasn’t enough. With an unrelenting drive, she transitioned to triathlon, then cycling, earning nine world titles and a Paralympic silver medal for Great Britain. In this episode, Fran keeps it real about what it takes to compete at the highest level, the challenges of being an elite para athlete, and why she rejects “inspiration porn.” “I'm not here to inspire you. I'm here because I am a professional athlete.” Fran challenges how mainstream media covers para athletes: “Everyone is looking for a sob story. But being an athlete is hard work, and that’s what should be recognized.” She wants to see a shift, where Paralympians are seen for their talent, not just their personal struggles. She also breaks down the barriers to entry in para sports and how we can create more opportunities for future competitors. Her take home advice? “Don't let what others think of you define who you are… You write your own story.” Photo provided by Fran ------------- For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► / @flamebearers Follow us - Instagram - / flamebearers Facebook - / flamebearerspodcast LinkedIn - / flame-bearers TikTok - / flame_bearers X - / flame_bearers OUR WEBSITE - https://flamebearers.com/ 

"If it scares you, it’s probably worth doing." For Lara Dallman-Weiss, taking the leap—both on and off the water—has shaped her into the elite athlete she is today. A two-time Olympic sailor who grew up in Minnesota and now calls Miami home, Lara’s journey to the Games wasn’t always straightforward. From playing basketball and track in her youth to making the bold decision to move across the country for college sailing, she's continuously chosen courage over comfort. In this episode, Lara shares how she went from a young girl in a summer sailing camp to competing on the world’s biggest stage. She talks about the mental and physical demands of Olympic sailing, the thrill of standing alongside her sports heroes at the Opening Ceremony, and the intense preparation it takes to race for six grueling days. “People think of the Olympics as a 10-second sprint. For us, it’s a six-day marathon.” But the journey doesn’t stop at the finish line. Lara opens up about navigating life beyond elite competition, her search for what’s next, and how she’s learning to embrace uncertainty with the same mindset that got her to the Games. “Instead of being scared, I choose to take opportunities.” Her advice? Sign up for the thing that scares you. Whether it's a new class, a road race, or an adventure you've been hesitating on—just do it. Photo provided by Lara. ---------------- Flame Bearers is a multi-media movement, illuminating the unsung stories of elite women athletes from around the world. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and have worked with over 270 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► / @flamebearers Follow us - Instagram - / flamebearers Facebook - / flamebearerspodcast LinkedIn - / flame-bearers TikTok - / flame_bearers X - / flame_bearers OUR WEBSITE - https://flamebearers.com/ 

"No one said that being powerful and being feminine were exclusive. You can be both." For Catarina Guimarães, breaking barriers isn’t just a goal—it’s a way of life. A Paralympian for Team USA, Cerebral Palsy Soccer World Cup MVP, and published author, she’s proving that strength and style can coexist. Whether she’s dominating on the track, competing on the soccer field, or adding glitter to her race-day look, Catarina refuses to be put in a box. Born with cerebral palsy, Catarina’s competitive spirit pushed her beyond limits others tried to set for her. She made her first national team at just 15, beating the boys along the way. Now, she’s training alongside the athletes she once idolized—athletes she used to be too nervous to even ask for a photo with. “I was starstruck. And now they’re in my training group, and we’re actually competing, eating, and lifting each other up every day.” In this episode, Catarina opens up about the power of community, the importance of self-expression, and what it means to thrive in an elite sports environment. “When it’s a good team, there is nothing like it. Everybody lifts each other up.” From navigating negativity to embracing her own style—glam and all—she’s redefining what an athlete looks like and who it's for! Her advice? “Do something for yourself every day.” Whether it’s training for the Paralympics, writing her next book, or inspiring young girls to wear bows and break records, Catarina is a force to be reckoned with. ------ Flame Bearers is a multi media movement, illuminating the unsung stories of elite women athletes from around the world. We tell stories via podcast, video and live events and have worked with over 270 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVnEbCOeOvNlK6Bocw9ZSdA?sub_confirmation=1 Follow us - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/flamebearers/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/FlameBearersPodcast Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/flame-bearers/ Tiktok- https://www.tiktok.com/@flame_bearers X- https://twitter.com/flame_bearers OUR WEBSITE - https://flamebearers.com/ 

“People sometimes say the Paralympics is just a participation event—but that’s not true.” Tamsin Colley made history as Australia’s youngest-ever track and field Paralympian, competing in the 200m at the Rio 2016 Games. She’s also a dedicated Cerebral Palsy Footballer, balancing multiple sports while advocating for greater inclusion in competition. But Tamsin’s journey hasn’t been without obstacles. From being excluded in school due to assumptions about her disability to falling just meters before the finish line at the Paralympics, she’s had to fight for every opportunity. “Resilience isn’t just part of being an athlete—it’s part of everyday life when you have a disability,” she shares. Beyond competition, she’s pushing for more para events in mainstream meets and breaking down misconceptions. “The word ‘Para’ means parallel to the Olympics, not less than—it’s time people saw it that way.” In this episode, Tamsin talks about her experiences on the world’s biggest stage, the realities of para sport, and why disability is just one (of many) parts of who she is. ------ Flame Bearers is a multi media movement, illuminating the unsung stories of elite women athletes from around the world. We tell stories via podcast, video and live events and have worked with over 250 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► / @flamebearers Follow us - Instagram - / flamebearers Facebook - / flamebearerspodcast Linkedin - / flame-bearers Tiktok- / flame_bearers X- / flame_bearers OUR WEBSITE - https://flamebearers.com/