A Glimpse into the Volunteer Experience
With just over 5 days until the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the excitement is palpable. Recently, 1,200 volunteers from the City of Paris gathered at the adidas Arena for their first meeting, where they learned about their roles, saw their uniforms, and experienced a taste of the Games atmosphere. This meeting was crucial for the volunteers, who are essential to the success of this monumental event.
The Backbone of the Games
In addition to the 45,000 Paris 2024 volunteers, the City of Paris will deploy nearly 5,300 volunteers during the Games. Their mission is to welcome, guide, and inform visitors in public spaces, from transport exits to competition venues. They will also be stationed near competition venues to direct people, point out nearby facilities and official shops, and recommend local spots. Some volunteers will even welcome journalists to the Paris Media Centre this summer.
Meet the Volunteers
Alexis, 23, Engineer
What motivated you to become a volunteer? Alexis: My passion for sport and my desire to be involved in an event as significant as the Olympic Games. I missed the opportunity to volunteer for the Tokyo Olympics due to COVID, so welcoming the Games to a city I know so well, combined with my love for sport, was perfect for me.
What sports do you practice? Alexis: I play tennis and run, having recently completed the Paris Marathon. I also play rugby and coach the team I used to play for.
What will your role be? Alexis: I’ll be based near Stade Élisabeth in the 14th arrondissement, helping tourists and visitors watching athlete training sessions. I’ll encourage people to try different sports and promote the city of Paris.
Is this volunteer mission a good way to promote Paris? Alexis: Absolutely! I love Paris and want to share my passion for the city with visitors from around the world.
Is this an opportunity to dispel stereotypes about Parisians? Alexis: Yes, today is already proof. Everyone is smiling and happy, which is far from the typical stereotype of Parisians.
Will this volunteering experience help your future career? Alexis: Volunteering is increasingly valued by companies, even for CSR purposes. My involvement in the Olympics has already sparked interest in job interviews.
Valérie, IT Project Manager
What motivated you to take part in this volunteering program? Valérie: Sport has been my passion since childhood. I’ve run the Paris Marathon 25 times and have dreamed of the Olympic Games for 40 years. When I had the chance to contribute, I didn’t hesitate.
What sport do you play? Valérie: I’m a marathon runner, having recently completed my 37th marathon. I’m hopeful to participate in the Marathon for All and possibly carry the Olympic flame.
What will your mission be? Valérie: I will welcome, accompany, and guide people attending events at the Eiffel Tower site.
Is this voluntary role an opportunity to promote the image of Paris? Valérie: Definitely! I’ve already set up a cultural association to promote Paris and am eager to share my knowledge of the city.
Christophe, 43, IT Project Manager
What motivated you to become a volunteer? Christophe: My passion for sport and the unique opportunity of the Games being held in Paris after 100 years. I want to be part of this historic event and show that France can welcome people with smiles and good moods.
Do you want to dispel stereotypes about Parisians? Christophe: Yes, and beyond. I approach this with good humour and a desire to welcome everyone.
What will your mission be? Christophe: I’ll be welcoming spectators at the Eiffel Tower for beach volleyball during the Olympics and blind football during the Paralympics.
Are you proud to be involved in the Games? Christophe: Absolutely! I am honoured to be part of this collective effort and look forward to possibly participating in the Marathon for All and the torch relay.
The Heartbeat of Paris 2024
The Paris 2024 Torch Relay and the involvement of volunteers are integral to the success and spirit of the Games. With the Olympic flame traveling through iconic and unexpected sites across Paris, and volunteers showcasing the city’s hospitality and charm, the stage is set for an unforgettable celebration of sport, unity, and culture.
Key Figures
- 68: The number of days the Olympic flame will travel across France.
- 400: The number of cities the Olympic flame will pass through.
- 11,000: The total number of Olympic torchbearers in France.
The dedication and enthusiasm of the volunteers are crucial in making the Paris 2024 Olympic Games a memorable event. As they prepare to welcome the world to Paris, their roles in guiding, informing, and showcasing the city will ensure a remarkable experience for all visitors.
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