TT sportswomen inspire at Flow Schools Symposium

This year’s symposium, sponsored by Flow, is entitled “Far from Finished”.

Paralympic swimmer Shanntol Ince, former world boxing champion Ria Ramnarine and shot put Olympic finalist Cleopatra Borel, all spent time with students on Day Two of the symposium.

Borel, talking about “The Pain Barrier” said, “Today my message was not to be afraid of the pain you are experiencing and know that pain is a feedback. Pain lets you know that you are working hard, you are pushing towards a goal and one of the students said ‘no pain, no gain,’ and basically I wanted to let them know you endure some pain now and you are going to get the gains in the end.” Borel, asked to compare competing at major events and delivering motivational speeches, said, “Each compliments the other.

I can bring a message to these young people today, because of what I achieved as an athlete and because of my experience as an athlete I have a message to deliver.” Ince, discussing the topic “Against The Tide” said, “My message was to speak to the youth here about overcoming obstacles.

Challenges will come their way, but it is up to them to really and truly pursue and persist and be confident in their abilities to achieve their goals and dreams.” Ince said she enjoyed listening to Borel and Ramnarine. “It was really amazing coming here today and seeing Cleopatra Borel and Ria Ramnarine. Hearing their stories on how they persisted and the dedication and hard work that has gotten them to the level that they have been able to reach.” Ramnarine’s presentation was called “In a Man’s World.” The Secondary Schools Leadership Symposium will continue today and end tomorrow.