Mary Kom

Mary grew up in a village in north-east India. Her family had very little and there was no money for toys, so she entertained herself by playing sports and running outside. When Mary discovered boxing, she knew it was the sport for her. Yet some people weren’t so sure, including her dad. He thought boxing was just for boys. But by training hard and believing in herself, Mary showed that she belonged in the ring. She won six world championships and became known as Magnificent Mary. Alongside winning medals, she opened a boxing academy for budding young athletes, became a member of parliament and campaigned for animals’ rights. In 2020 she was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, one of the highest accolades in India.