For over a quarter of a century, Neela has blended her athletic prowess with a strong voice for advocacy, creating an impactful legacy in Maldivian sports. As she shared her story, her voice was firm yet filled with emotion. She vividly recalled a moment during her campaign for the Athletes Commission that stood out as a testament to her multifaceted journey. It was a time of profound connection where she got to engage with athletes from various disciplines, listening to their stories, sharing experiences and diving into the diverse challenges and triumphs within the Maldivian sporting community. This experience for her epitomized her evolution from an accomplished athlete to a dedicated advocate for her peers.

Yet, Neela’s journey to this pinnacle moment is as complex as it is inspiring. As a young athlete engaged in a wide array of sports, her transition to badminton was not only about physical agility but marked by a deeper journey of self-discovery and determination. “Growing up, I was often labeled for being unconventional, too different. But I found my true expression in individual sports like badminton,” Neela shared. “I started as maybe the 20th or 25th player in the badminton scene,” she recalled. Badminton in the Maldives during the late ‘90s was a different landscape, one where Neela had to carve out her place. It was a time of limited resources, skewed opportunities and a glaring gender disparity. But Neela has never been one to be deterred by obstacles. “Badminton taught me about individual commitment and how in such a sport, your destiny is firmly in your own hands,” she reflected.

More than achieving victories, Neela’s rise in badminton represented her steadfast commitment to leveling the playing field for women. She encountered challenges that extended beyond the court, confronting a system that often relegated women to the sidelines. Yet, looking back, Neela sees the value in her struggles, “Fighting for equality and people’s rights cost me opportunities, but now, I realize it was worth it.” Over the years, she witnessed a significant shift in the landscape of Maldivian sports, especially for women. “The scene has evolved. Now, there are more equal opportunities and resources for women, a change that is both necessary and heartening,” she added, acknowledging the progress made.

However, her career was not devoid of struggles. As a vocal advocate against harassment and exploitation in sports, she often found herself confronting deep-rooted societal biases and institutional inertia. “Witnessing incidents of manipulation and grooming in sports, I knew I had to stand up against it,” she recalled with distress but unflinching honesty. Despite facing challenging situations, her determination to create a safer sporting environment has never wavered, fueled by a sense of justice.

Speaking about the vulnerabilities of women and girls in sports, Neela expressed deep concern over the pressure young athletes often face, feeling the need to compromise their integrity for advancement. “We need to create environments where female athletes are valued for their skill and dedication, not exploited,” she stated emphatically. She also stressed the importance of responsible vetting and accountability in sports management, particularly concerning coaches and trainers.

One of Neela’s most significant challenges lay in navigating leadership as a woman in sports. “Women in leadership positions often face resistance, not just in sports but across various fields,” she observed. Her own experience as a senior figure in badminton was frequently overshadowed by limited opportunities to lead and influence decision-making processes. “Even within the associations, women representatives may be present but their voices are often unheard, hindering meaningful change. It’s crucial we build trust and respect for women in these roles, not only for the sake of equality but for the betterment of the sport as a whole,” she said, calling to attention the need for a cultural shift in how female leaders are perceived and valued in the sports world.

But Neela’s story isn’t only about personal triumphs. It’s about her unyielding commitment to protecting and empowering others. Her journey is punctuated with moments of introspection and growth, learning from experiences and the stories of others. “Listening to people, understanding their journeys  - it’s been crucial in shaping who I am,” Neela emphasized, highlighting the value of empathy and shared experiences in development both as an athlete and a person. This learning has not only shaped her as an athlete, but as a person who stands firmly for what is right. Her narrative is one of transformation - from a young athlete navigating the challenges of the sport to a seasoned advocate for equity and safety in sports.

As Neela contemplates retirement, her aspirations remain firmly rooted in giving back to the community. “I see retirement not as an end but as a new beginning, a chance to give back and help shape a safer, more equitable future in sports,” she shared. She envisions a future where she can share her knowledge and experience, fostering a new generation of athletes who are both skilled in sports and also aware of their rights and the importance of mutual respect and support. “We have come a long way and today, the sports scene offers abundant opportunities, especially for girls and women. It’s about working together - with coaches, families and organizations - to create a safe, supportive environment for everyone,” she added.

Neela’s message to young girls and women in the Maldives and beyond remains a powerful call to action: “Believe in your value, seize the opportunities and know that you can create a space for yourself in any field, including sports.” She hopes that her journey and advocacy will inspire others to excel in their respective sports and stand up for their rights and the rights of others. “We grow and leave behind whatever doesn’t grow with us. Mastering a variety of skills is crucial - it’s not about focusing on one thing, but about growing in all aspects of life,” she reflected.

Neela’s legacy is defined by her numerous achievements, her battles for equity, the voices she raised for the silenced and the path she has paved for future generations of women in sports.

Follow her journey: @neela.najeeb