‘‘Your difference is your power,’’ Dame Sophie Pascoe told students.
‘‘Utilise your difference to empower others and yourself to make a change in society for the better.’’
Speaking in schools and communities across the country as part of the Westpac Dare to Dream programme, the recently retired swimmer outlined her early life, including the lawnmower accident at age 2 that led to the amputation of her left leg below the knee.
Resilience and flexibility in exploring her strengths included trying competitive swimming at age 7. Dame Sophie went on to represent New Zealand at four Paralympic Games, winning 19 medals including 11 gold.
She said the programme intended to offer guidance on translating personal challenges into opportunities for growth.
‘‘I’m here with my own story and journey from adversity into a positive, career-defining process, which I’m able to share with others to hopefully inspire them to go and follow their dreams,’’ she said.
She visited the Balclutha high school on Monday.
