My Unforgettable Journey as a Paris 2024 Volunteer: How Zero Gravity’s Support Made It Possible
By Chloe Bezer – 3rd October 2024
One of our fantastic Scholars, Chloe Bezer, used her Zero Gravity Scholarship money in one of the coolest ways possible - to pay her travel + accommodation in Paris so that she could volunteers at the Paralympics 2024. Iconic!
Elite sport, French culture, a once in a lifetime opportunity: all factors enticing me to volunteer at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. When my application was accepted, I was so excited to practise my French and contribute to this global event.
I am a Zero Gravity Scholar - I applied in time for my first year of university not knowing the crucial support the Scholarship programme would provide. Zero Gravity made this experience possible as I used the funds to cover the cost of my accommodation allowing me to fully immerse myself in the experience.
So why the Paralympics? And why Paris 2024?
My first experience with the Paralympic Games was London 2012 where my dad took me and my siblings to watch some of the sports. I loved it all - the atmosphere, the sports, everything. Little did I know that I would be at another Games twelve years later, but this time as a volunteer!
The inclusivity of the Paralympics, the support and the sheer inspiration are immense at the Paralympic Games. The experience of getting to know the athletes and coaches was a true honour. I initially went into Paris 2024 to improve my French and enjoy the ambience, but I took away much more than that. Being able to contribute and give my time to such an amazing event was so precious.
Zero Gravity helps students all over the country achieve their academic and personal potential. Using the Zero Gravity Scholarship to fund this experience alleviated financial stress, allowing me to focus on the volunteer experience. This has enhanced my professional development as this once in a lifetime opportunity levelled up my employability skills, developed my interpersonal and professional skills, and created lifelong memories.
My Experience Volunteering at the Paralympic Games
I had the pleasure of working in the Paralympic Village for the entirety of my volunteer role (17th August – 9th September). I worked in the inventory team helping with check-in and check-out, and was surrounded by such a fun team. In our downtime I let off some steam in Just Dance with other volunteers as well as being taught new French vocabulary and teaching other volunteers some English phrases!
The other team I was a part of was the Welcome Services Team. Our goal was to be a positive presence in the village, assisting athletes, and giving directions. I was posted next to Paralympics GB which was a highlight for me, as I formed connections with the Para Taekwondo team, Para Fencing, and Para Athletics. I even got to wear the gold medal of world record shot putter Sabrina Fortune! It was such a unique atmosphere with a true sense of community.
Importantly, I have learned so much about myself, Paralympic sport, and different cultures. The Paralympics is a separate entity to the Olympics with different classifications, and required skills, which should be more widely recognised. In my time, I gained new perspectives into disability and its nuances, as well as the tenacity of these athletes who have overcome personal challenges to dominate in their respective sports. What was especially apparent to me was that a positive, resilient mentality allows people to accomplish more than they would have ever dreamt possible.
The costs of volunteering can sometimes be a barrier, especially at international events. Zero Gravity made it possible for me, but I know other volunteers struggled with the cost of accommodation. Paris 2024 provided a uniform, a travel pass and a meal on shift for all volunteers, which helped alleviate some stress but wouldn’t have been enough without the Zero Gravity Scholarship fund. Finances should not be a barrier to those willing to volunteer their time to make a positive, global impact. Thanks to Zero Gravity - it wasn’t a barrier for me.
This experience has inspired my future goals to continue volunteering and I hope to volunteer at LA2028 or the Milan 2026 Winter Games. The professional development of working in an international team, using my language skills to communicate, and contributing to the management of the village are skills that will carry forward into my future career.
In terms of my own personal development, I had to be brave and travel internationally on my own for this experience. I had to be confident to communicate in a second language and not be afraid to ask for help. I had to adapt and connect with others quickly in a short space of time. The list goes on…
Thank you once again, Zero Gravity, for the Scholarship and for believing in my potential. Your support allowed me to embrace this incredible opportunity. I also want to extend my deepest gratitude to my family for always being there, providing the encouragement and confidence to explore new opportunities.
To my fellow Zero Gravity Scholars, I encourage you to think creatively about how to use your scholarship to develop your skills and make a difference. Volunteering is an excellent way to build employability skills while giving back. Paris 2024 was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I urge you not to shy away from new adventures—embrace them and enjoy the journey!
WHAT a way to spend your Scholarship money Chloe - nice one! Looking for undergraduate scholarships? Sign up to Zero Gravity whilst you're in school for the chance to apply - AND you'll get access to our enormous online student community, career opportunities, career mentoring, masterclasses on everything from personal statement help to job applications, and more. What are you waiting for?
