Saman SOLTANI

Saman's relationship with water started through artistic swimming as a child and culminated with her becoming a national champion. Later, she switched to kayaking as her home country offered more opportunities for women to compete in this sport. In kayaking, she enjoyed similar success as a member of the national team, winning silver at the Asian Championships. In summer 2022 her journey took an unexpected turn when she sought asylum in Austria.

Today, Saman trains with the Austrian Canoe Federation and has won national championships in kayak marathon and sprint races. As a Refugee Athlete Scholarship-holder, being selected to compete for IOC Refugee Olympic Team Paris 2024 has seen her biggest dream come true. She also hopes to use her voice to encourage other women to focus on their dreams.