Leading the commission, as president, is Dr Paula Belén Pareto from Argentina, an iconic figure in the judo world. Known as ‘La Peque’ (the little one), Pareto made history by becoming the first Argentinian woman to win an Olympic gold medal in judo at the Rio 2016 Games. She also earned a bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and was world champion in 2015. Alongside her athletic career, Pareto graduated as a medical doctor and completed her residency in traumatology in 2021.
Supporting Pareto on the commission are distinguished judoka from across the continent:
Prisca Awiti (Mexico):
Born in London to a Mexican mother and Kenyan father, Awiti chose to represent Mexico in 2017. At the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, she made history by winning Mexico's first-ever Olympic medal in judo, claiming silver in the -63 kg category.
Juan Miguel Postigos (Peru):
A four-time Olympian (2012, 2016, 2020, and 2024), Postigos has been a cornerstone of Peruvian judo. He has earned medals at the Panamerican Games and has several podium finishes at Pan-American Championships.
Ónix Cortés (Cuba):
During a remarkable career, Cortés won medals at both the world championships and Pan-American championships. In 2014 she secured a bronze medal at the World Championships and she was Pan-American champion in 2011.
PJC President Carlos Zegarra Presser emphasised that this commission not only aligns with international policies but also reflects a deep conviction, “Athletes must be at the heart of our decisions. Through their voices, we build a more representative, fair and connected movement that addresses the real needs of high-performance sport.”
Looking ahead to Los Angeles 2028, the PJC is encouraging each national federation to establish its own athletes' commission. The current members will not only serve as ambassadors but also as key drivers in this transformative process.
The formation of this commission stands as a testament to the power of sport to unite cultures, overcome challenges and build a more inclusive future. The achievements and experiences of these athletes inspire the next generation, proving that with dedication and passion, extraordinary goals can be reached.