Dutee Chand
About
Dutee Chand is a professional sprinter, and India’s first woman athlete to claim a gold medal in a 100m race at a global competition in 2016 at the Rio Games. Born in a family of weavers and from a below-poverty-line family, Dutee's struggle to achieve this athletic success is a story in itself. Having been born with a condition named hyperandrogenism, where her body produces natural levels of testosterone, a primary male hormone, Dutee was barred from competing against women.
Despite being forced to sit out due to these regulations, Dutee persevered, ultimately qualifying for the Women's 100m event at the Rio Olympics in 2016.
Beyond her athletic achievements, Dutee has also demonstrated immense courage off the track. In 2019, she boldly came out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, becoming India's first athlete to do so publicly.
Her decision to speak openly about her sexuality was a watershed moment, inspired by the Indian Supreme Court's decision to decriminalize gay sex in 2018. Despite facing backlash and disapproval from her home village, Dutee remained steadfast in her truth, serving as a beacon of hope and acceptance for countless individuals.
Awards and accomplishments
Awards and accomplishments
A determined sportsperson, Dutee’s feats continued to astound the world. Dutee is the third Indian woman to ever qualify for the Women’s 100m event at the Summer Olympic Games. She secured silver in the women’s 100m event at the Jakarta Asian Games in 2018, marking India’s first medal in the discipline since 1998. The following year, she made history again by clinching gold at the Universiade, becoming the first Indian sprinter to achieve this accolade.
Why Dutee Chand ?
Dutee has broken records and shattered stereotypes, challenging societal norms and championing inclusivity in the world of sports. Her resilience, coupled with her talent, embodies the very essence of a true champion, making her an ideal choice as a speaker to engage audiences in meaningful conversations about embracing diversity, and celebrating individuality,
