<p>Dominique Dawes is a three-time Olympian, Olympic gold medalist, and trailblazer in American gymnastics. </p><p>A member of the legendary “Magnificent Seven,” she made history at the 1996 Atlanta Games as the first Black woman to win an individual Olympic medal in gymnastics. Today, she is the founder and brand ambassador of the Dominique Dawes Academy, creating safe, empowering spaces for young athletes in gymnastics, ninja, and more, with a growing national footprint. Beyond sport, Dawes is a minority owner of the Washington Spirit and a limited partner of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons, and previously co-chaired the President’s Council on Fitness under President Obama. Through her leadership across sports, business, and culture, she continues to champion joy, inclusion, and mental well-being for the next generation.</p>
Three-Time Olympian and Hall of Fame Gymnast
<ul><li><strong>Success Is a Journey, Not a Destination</strong></li><li>Dominique Dawes won Olympic gold. But for her, success is so much more than medals and accolades: it’s something she worked hard to achieve every day en route to Olympic glory. Her journey in the sport of gymnastics lasted 18 years and in those years she stood strong on numerous podiums, leaving lasting impressions in the hearts of fans. The podium was the destination, but the long-term goal? It’s the moments in between—what she calls the “journey”—that helped her realize the success that she was always striving for. Overcoming the inevitable obstacles, challenges, and doubts are the moments in the journey that build the champion in Dawes. Surrounding herself with the right team, developing the mindset to persevere, and turning negative situations into life lessons is how Dawes realized Success Is a Journey, NOT a Destination.</li><li><strong>Building a Strong Foundation for Success</strong></li><li>Building a solid foundation was one of the keys to Dawes' success. Her emphasis on a solid foundation touches on multiple areas: from healthy lifestyle choices to developing positive self-esteem where she addresses issues such as peer pressures, productive attitudes, and values. The audience will walk away empowered, motivated, and, more importantly, clear on what it takes to build a strong foundation worthy of your dreams.</li></ul><p><br></p>