It’s nearly impossible to talk about empowerment in the track and field world without mentioning Dawn Harper Nelson. Her journey embodies resilience, perseverance, and the courage to rise above expectation. These defining qualities perfectly align with one of the core missions of Track Girlz; to empower girls through sport.

Empowerment isn’t just about medals or records though, it’s also about showing young women that they have the strength to overcome obstacles both on and off the track. Dawn’s life, from Olympic podiums to community and advocacy, illustrates exactly what it means to clear life’s hurdles with both grace and grit.

Dawn Harper Nelson’s career is nothing short of inspiring. Born and raised in East St. Louis, Illinois, she first discovered her talent for hurdling as a teenager, eventually earning a scholarship to UCLA. It was there that her natural ability, matched with relentless discipline, began to shape her into an elite athlete.

Her defining moment came during the 2008 Beijing Olympics, when she stunned the world by capturing the gold medal in the 100-meter hurdles. Four years later, at the London 2012 Olympics, she added a silver medal to her legacy, cementing her place as one of the best hurdlers of her generation. Beyond the Olympics, she earned multiple World Championship medals and consistently ranked among the top hurdlers in the world, proving her staying power in a sport that demands both speed and mental toughness.

But Dawn’s story is about more than athletic accolades. It’s also about the battles fought behind the scenes. She endured injuries, moments of doubt, and the pressure of competing on the world’s biggest stages. Yet each time, she came back stronger, redefining what empowerment looks like: the ability to continue, even when the odds seem stacked against you.

Every race is a series of barriers that demand not only physical strength but also unwavering belief in yourself

Dawn describing hurdling as a metaphor for life.

That philosophy continues to guide her today, as she shares her story with the next generation of athletes.

Off the track, Dawn Harper-Nelson has dedicated herself to mentoring and uplifting young women. She understands that her platform as an Olympian is about more than personal glory; it’s an opportunity to open doors for others. Through her motivational speaking, community engagement, and collaborations with organizations like TrackGirlz, she emphasizes the importance of education, self-confidence, and hard work. She’s not only passionate about helping athletes chase their dreams, but also about empowering them to see value in who they are beyond their sport.

One of the most admirable aspects of Dawn’s journey is how authentically she shares her life outside of competition. From her role as a wife and mother to her passion for giving back to her community in East St. Louis, she shows that empowerment extends into every area of life. She has spoken openly about the transition from being a professional athlete to life after retirement, reminding us that even when one chapter closes, there is power in embracing new roles and challenges.

Ultimately, Dawn Harper-Nelson’s story is proof that empowerment is not just a word, it’s lived experience.