By Sylvia Akpan
Cross River-born Jasmine Oku is set to compete as an athlete together with her team to represent Nigeria in curling at the Youth Olympic Games in Gangwon, South Korea, Asia.
The 2024 Winter Youth Olympics, officially known as the IV Winter Youth Olympic Games and commonly known as Gangwon 2024, is a winter multi-sport event, cultural festival, and fourth edition of the Winter Youth Olympics currently being held between 19th January and February 1, 2024, in Gangwon Province, South Korea.
Jasmine is said to be the first black African in the history of the sport to lead any African nation to qualify and compete in curling at the Youth Olympic Games.
The motto for the sports event is tagged ‘Grow Together, Shine Forever’ and Nigeria’s inaugural participation in the Winter Youth Olympic Games symbolizes the uplifting of underrepresented regions in winter sports and the resilience of athletes in overcoming significant challenges to pursue their Olympic dreams.
