TheReporterAsia – Under the bright spotlights illuminating a frigid ice rink, a young man gracefully glides, his movements as fluid as water, yet as powerful as a mountain. This image reflects the success of the “Elite Horizon: Golden Medals on the Horizon” project, initiated by “Khun Kay,” Dr. Suwanna Silpa-archa, a capable and accomplished woman, a Council Member International Skating Union Gender Equality Committee member of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), whose heart is filled with compassion and determination to transform the lives of underprivileged youth through sports.
- – MINIX Sets Sights on SEA, Highlighting World-Class Products
- – Inside Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 : How Tech Drives Success
Dr. Suwanna Silpa-archa plays a vital role in the Thai sports community. She holds the position of Council Member International Skating Union Gender Equality Committee member of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), is the former president of the Figure and Speed Skating Association of Thailand. Currently, she is the President of the Curling Association of Thailand. With her experience and expertise in the field, she deeply understands the importance of developing youth potential through sports.
Furthermore, in September 2024, she received the HER AWARDS from UNFPA THAILAND as an inspiring female figure. These awards are a testament to her commitment and dedication to the development of Thai society and youth, as well as being a role model and inspiration to people in society.
The genesis of “Elite Horizon: Golden Medals on the Horizon” dates back over a decade ago when Dr. Suwanna encountered a group of children, some of whom were the children of athletes, while others came from impoverished backgrounds. However, one thing they shared was a dream, determination, and hidden talent. Dr. Suwanna saw the spark in these children’s eyes and extended her hand, providing them with training and unwavering support.
“This project focuses on the holistic development of underprivileged youth, not just in sports but also in education, life skills, and instilling moral values. I believe that a person’s worth isn’t determined by who they are, but by what they do – what they do for their country, for society, and what they do without harming others.” Dr Suwanna highlighted.
One of those children was the son of a housekeeper at the ice rink, a young man with no advantages in life except for a determined heart. Under Dr. Suwanna’s guidance, he trained rigorously, dedicating himself body and soul. Eventually, he reached the world stage, achieving a top 60 global ranking and becoming a World Championship-level athlete at just 17 years old. This is proof that the right opportunity and support can truly change lives.
“At that time, I didn’t intend to create a formal project. I just wanted to support them, give them a chance to develop their potential, and do what they loved. Then I met this boy, the son of a housekeeper at the ice rink. He had nothing, but he had a dream, a strong determination to become a figure skater. I saw his potential and took him under my wing, training him to the fullest. Eventually, he reached the world stage, achieving a top 60 global ranking and becoming a World Championship-level athlete, all at just 17 years old.”
Besides this young man, there were many other children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Some had made mistakes and ended up in juvenile detention centers. But when they were given a chance, care, and training, they were able to change their lives, create value for themselves, and bring honor to their country.
“I believe every Thai child is talented. They just sometimes lack opportunities and guidance. This project is like a light at the end of the tunnel, a source of hope. When they see that children from similar backgrounds can achieve success, they are inspired to follow suit,” said Dr. Suwanna.
Building on these successes, Dr. Suwanna decided to initiate the “Elite Horizon: Golden Medals on the Horizon” project to expand opportunities to other sports and open doors to dreams for underprivileged youth. The project not only focuses on sports training but also encompasses education, life skills, and moral development. Dr. Suwanna believes that a person’s value lies not in who they are but in what they do for their country and society without harming others.
Children in the project receive intensive training from expert coaches, alongside their education at sports schools. They are closely mentored, treated like family, and taught the values of sacrifice, perseverance, discipline, and most importantly, their self-worth.
“Elite Horizon: Golden Medals on the Horizon” represents a beacon of hope for underprivileged youth. When they witness peers from similar starting points achieving success, they gain the inspiration to follow. Thus, this project is not just about creating athletes; it’s about building individuals and shaping Thailand’s future.
In an era dominated by social media, Dr. Suwanna views sports as a shield against negative influences. When children dedicate their time to training, they have less time to be engrossed in screens. Moreover, sports teach them to accept defeat, celebrate victory, and work as a team—essential life skills.
“I would like to invite everyone with a compassionate heart to join us in building a future for Thai youth. Your support, in any form, is meaningful to these children. It represents opportunity, hope, their future, and the future of Thailand,” urges Dr. Suwanna.
“The ‘Elite Horizon: Golden Medals on the Horizon’ project is just a small beginning, but I believe that with the cooperation of all sectors, we can create a better society, nurture quality youth, and build a brighter future for Thailand.”
“Elite Horizon: Golden Medals on the Horizon” is a story of hope, inspiration, and transformation. It’s a story that proves that the right opportunity and support can truly change lives. And this is the mission that Dr. Suwanna Sinlapa-archa is passionately dedicating her efforts to – creating a better future for Thai youth, creating “golden medals on the horizon” for them, and building a brighter future for Thailand.
This is just a part of the grand narrative of the “Elite Horizon: Golden Medals on the Horizon” project. There are many more children waiting for an opportunity, waiting for hope. Let’s join together to build a future for them and create “golden medals on the horizon” together.
#DrSuwannaSilpaArcha #EliteHorizon #GoldenMedalsOnTheHorizon #YouthDevelopment #InspiringChange #Opportunity #Thailand #SocialImpact #Empowerment #SportsDevelopment #HopeForTheFuture #MakingADifference
