Inspiring Women in Sports

Ramla Ali:
Breaking Barriers in and Beyond the Ring

Ramla Ali’s story is one of resilience, courage, and dedication to empowering marginalized communities. Born in Somalia, Ramla fled civil war as a child, eventually resettling in the U.K., where she discovered boxing as a source of confidence and healing. As the first Muslim woman to win a national boxing title in England, she has broken both cultural and athletic barriers, amplifying visibility for underrepresented groups in sports.

Ramla’s journey reached a historic milestone when she became the first Somali boxer to compete in the Olympics, representing her heritage at the 2020 Tokyo Games. But her impact extends far beyond personal success; she is deeply committed to creating opportunities and safe spaces for women. In 2018, she founded The Sisters Club, a nonprofit providing female-only environments for Muslim women and survivors of domestic violence to learn self-defense. The club has grown, empowering women facing personal and societal challenges to regain control in their lives.

Ramla’s advocacy is as powerful as her athletic career. As a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, she addresses issues like female genital mutilation and refugee rights, profoundly affecting communities in Somalia and East Africa. She’s also begun work on In the Shadows, a film chronicling her journey as a Somali refugee and boxer. This project shines a light on her personal struggles and triumphs, amplifying voices that have faced adversity.

Video: Ramla Ali's Journey in Embracing Strength and Breaking Stereotypes


In this ELLE UK video interview, Ramla discusses her path as a female boxer, tackling body image issues, sexism in sports, and inspiring young girls to embrace their uniqueness. She talks openly about breaking down stereotypes and how boxing helped her respect her body. Ramla’s story reminds us that resilience and beauty are rooted in self-acceptance and courage. Watch the full interview for Ramla’s empowering story.

Balancing her boxing career with modeling and activism, Ramla uses her platform to challenge stereotypes, inspiring other women to overcome societal limitations. Her story is a testament to resilience and the power found in advocating for others—a reminder that true success is measured by our impact on the world around us.

Video: Ramla Ali - Strength, Style, and the Spirit of Dior’s Lady 95.22 Campaign

The Lady 95.22 campaign by Dior celebrates the iconic Lady Dior bag, honoring influential women who embody strength, elegance, and authenticity. Ramla Ali was chosen for her powerful journey—from refugee to Olympic athlete—making her a role model of resilience and empowerment. Alongside stars like actress Natalie Portman and model Anya Taylor-Joy, Ramla brings her unique perspective to the campaign, inspiring a new generation to embrace their identities and ambitions.

Personal Development Exercise:
Embrace Your Inner Champion

This month, we’re drawing inspiration from Ramla Ali’s powerful journey. In this exercise, you’ll reflect on a time when you pursued a goal despite challenges and consider the strength it took to keep going. Ramla’s resilience reminds us that every obstacle we overcome shapes us and gives us the power to uplift others.

Download the full exercise here: November Personal Development Exercises - Ramla Ali 

Want to learn more about Ramla?

More Quotes to Inspire

  • "Be bold. If you're going to make an error, make a doozy."

    Billie Jean King changed the game for women in sports by fighting for equal pay and respect. Her boldness and advocacy for gender equality go far beyond tennis.

  • "The success of every woman should be the inspiration to another. We should raise each other up."

    Serena Williams is not only one of the greatest tennis players of all time, but also a fierce advocate for racial and gender equality, encouraging women to support each other and pursue their dreams.

  • "Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit."

    Wilma Rudolph overcame polio as a child to become the fastest woman in the world, winning three Olympic gold medals. Her resilience inspired generations to dream big and persevere.

  • "Take your victories, whatever they may be, cherish them, use them, but don't settle for them."

    Mia Hamm, a soccer icon, brought women’s soccer to the global stage. She continues to inspire by reminding young athletes that success is just the beginning of the journey.

  • "I'd rather regret the risks that didn't work out than the chances I didn't take at all."

    Simone Biles redefined gymnastics with her daring moves and resilience. By speaking out about mental health, she has inspired countless people to prioritize well-being.

  • "Set realistic goals, keep re-evaluating, and be consistent."

    Venus Williams played a pivotal role in achieving equal prize money for women at Wimbledon. Her persistence shows that strategic thinking and consistency can create real change.

  • "I want to be a voice for women who are facing discrimination in the workplace."

    Allyson Felix stood up to major sponsors to support maternity rights for athletes. Her advocacy extends beyond the track, inspiring women to fight for fair treatment.

  • "I want to inspire young girls to know that they can do anything they set their minds to."


    Chloe Kim, the youngest woman to win an Olympic snowboarding gold medal, uses her influence to show young women that they belong in any field they choose.

  • "I want to show everyone that, after the pain, after the storm, comes calm days."


    Yusra Mardini, a Syrian refugee and Olympic swimmer, symbolizes hope and resilience. Her journey reminds us that even in dark times, hope and strength lead to new beginnings.

  • "I want to inspire women to believe in themselves and to know that they can achieve anything."


    Ramla Ali, a Somali-born British boxer, became the first Somali woman to box at the Olympics. She’s a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment and equality through sports.