I received my Fellowship in 1981, as a sportswoman advancing my aspirations to fence for Great Britain at the Olympic Games, World Championships and Commonwealth Games. I lived and trained abroad in Hungary and France, living with past gold medallists and world champions, and the experience my Fellowship offered me changed my life. I subsequently represented Great Britain in the Senior World Championships, was in the Olympic squad (as reserve) for the Los Angeles Olympic Games, and won a team gold medal at the Commonwealth Games in 1986.

I have worked as a physiotherapist for many years and sport has shown me how it can break down barriers. I completed my MSc at Loughborough University specialising in inclusive design and how exclusion can be reduced. My research has been showcased and, after presenting at the conference, I established Human Connections, my own training and research consultancy, to help organisations address their diversity and inclusion strategies and reduce exclusion barriers in the home, work and built environment.

My Fellowship opened my eyes to how sport and travel can increase our perspective-taking, which makes for a more inclusive world.