As Black History Month draws to a close, Welsh Gymnastics is proud to highlight one of our inspiring Young Ambassadors, Sophia Parkes, a passionate coach from Bangor Gymnastics Club who is helping shape the future of the sport through her commitment to inclusion, representation, and community.
Sophia’s journey into coaching was inspired by the supportive environment she experienced at her home club. She explains, “My now fellow coaches in Bangor Gymnastics Club really inspired me to become a coach. Their welcoming and kind way of making lessons fit everyone’s needs made whether I wanted to become a coach a clear yes. Plus, being an ambassador meant I could connect with more people across Wales who share my goal of wanting to make gymnastics the best it can be.”
For Sophia, Black History Month is not just a time to reflect on strong historical figures, but also a chance to embrace culture and identity. She says, “It’s about being aware of our differences and how we can all come together and learn from one another. My identity as a Black woman doesn’t only concern how I look, but also how I feel. It’s important that other girls and boys of colour feel that same pride in their own identity.”
Her admiration for role models spans from sporting icons to her family. “If we’re talking about Black role models, most of mine are tied to sports, Usain Bolt, Serena Williams, and Simone Biles. No matter the racism or negativity they’ve faced, they’ve always powered through and remained key role models for younger people of colour,” she explains. “But personally, my biggest role models are my dad and sister. They show me how to navigate life as not only a Black person but as a Black woman.”
While Sophia has been fortunate to avoid racial challenges in gymnastics, she acknowledges that there have been occasional moments of isolation. “There were the occasional blunt comments when I was younger, but my coaches always stepped in. Gymnastics has always been a space that cheers me up, especially after a tough day at school,” she reflects.
In her roles as coach and ambassador, Sophia strives to create an environment where everyone feels welcome. “I constantly strive to be the best role model I can be for other gymnasts and coaches of colour,” she says. “I try to be as approachable and aware as possible so that no one feels excluded or isolated for any reason.”
To young gymnasts from diverse backgrounds who may look up to her, Sophia offers this advice: “You are amazing, and no matter what, you should try your hardest in everything you do. The way you look should only make you more confident and proud to be you. Because it’s how hard we work and how much effort we put in that counts!”
Looking ahead, Sophia hopes to see greater representation across Welsh Gymnastics. “I hope to see more gymnasts and coaches of colour taking part in public events and competitions. And I’d love to see gymnastics focus more on educating people about Black history and culture,” she says.
Sophia Parkes is a shining example of how passion, pride, and perseverance can help create a more inclusive future, both within gymnastics and beyond.