Multiple Team GB 400m medallist Donna Fraser challenged young women working in the protection sector to find their “why” at this year’s Women In Protection Conference.
Fraser’s far reaching address touched on her athletics career, overcoming breast cancer through the use of a warrior-like alter ego known as Diane, chairing the BAME Network at EDF Energy and working as head of inclusion and engagement for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
But Fraser also told delegates of how she was first inspired to set a goal of making it to the Olympics after she watched the 1984 Los Angeles Games on television.
The Croydon Harriers and GB 400m runner, who picked up World, European and Commonwealth Games Bronze medals, spoke about setbacks such as just missing out on a bronze at the Sydney 2000 Games where she finished fourth in the 400m final and the subsequent array of injuries she faced following those games.
But she revealed she battled back from injury after being written off by certain commentators to compete in the Athens 2004 Games.
“In Athens, there was a different focus. I just wanted to prove everyone wrong, that I still had it and I could get back,” Fraser said.
“It wasn’t about times or position. It was just putting that kit on and feeling proud. I didn’t get as far as I did in 2000 but I felt proud in my own way because I’d set my own targets and I felt that I’d achieved – others may not have, but I felt I had achieved.
“And this is why it’s important to know your why. I knew my why at that moment. The why was I wanted to prove everyone wrong and show that I still had the talent to come back and it’s just so important to know what your purpose is on a day-to-day basis.”
Fraser added that today she works with the Birmingham Commonwealth Games and knows her purpose is to deliver a Games with the rest of her teammates.
“That’s what gets me up in the morning. You all have your own purpose – having that reminder all the time. When you know your why, even the toughest days become easier.”
Self belief
Addressing the audience directly, Fraser said it was important for young women working in protection to have self belief.
“At the age of eight years old, I set my goal to get to an Olympic Games and that was my focus,” she continued.
“So just make them realistic and and have that self belief – the self belief I didn’t have in that race in 2000. That let me down.
“It’s just moving forward and I know as young people, you have your friends, you want to go out and just have fun but friends will be there forever if they’re the right friends – otherwise they will be there to support you so setting those clear goals is just key.
“I always say all that I’ve learned as an athlete is absolutely transferable into the world of business and everyday life.”