Alysha Newman, the Canadian pole vaulter who captured global attention with her bronze medal win at the Paris Games, is now leveraging her influence as a model and social media sensation to spread a message of self-belief. The 26-year-old athlete, whose celebratory dance after her victory became a viral sensation, recently shared her story of overcoming early self-doubt during an interview with Maxim. Newman recalled a childhood moment in grade school when she was denied a gold star by her teacher despite having the correct answer, only to take the prize from the teacher’s desk and place it on her own paper. This experience, she said, shaped her philosophy of self-validation and confidence, urging individuals to pursue their ambitions without waiting for external approval.
Newman’s transition from elite athlete to multi-platform influencer has also positioned her as a brand ambassador for major companies like Nike and Rado, and she continues to make waves in the sports world with her achievements and expanding ventures. At the Paris Olympics, she cleared 4.85 meters to earn the first Olympic medal of her career, a feat that solidified her place in the history of Canadian athletics. Her performance also placed her among the world’s best, with her 4.60-meter clearance at the University of Miami setting an Atlantic Coast Conference record. Newman now balances her athletic past with her growing presence in the entertainment and fashion industries, including appearances on Celebrity Family Feud and partnerships with high-profile brands. She emphasized that the key to success lies not in seeking validation from others but in cultivating self-confidence and determination, lessons she hopes to pass on to aspiring athletes and influencers alike.