Pho3nix Future Camps: Empowering Young Athletes to Rise, Compete, and Inspire

When the Pho3nix Foundation launched its first Future Camp in 2021 in Lausanne, Switzerland, the goal was clear: give promising young athletes the knowledge, tools, and inspiration needed to pursue careers in elite sport and beyond. Now held across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Pacific, these fully funded experiences have since become a launchpad for junior athletes from diverse disciplines.

Some years on, the impact is undeniable: alumni are rising on the world stage, while others return to mentor the next wave, helping the movement pick up further momentum to support potential and help young athletes rise.

Class of 2023: Rising Stars

The 2023 camps produced a standout group of athletes already making their mark internationally.

On the Gold Coast, Aspen Andersen emerged as one of Australia’s brightest triathlon prospects and a genuine contender for Brisbane 2032. With Youth Commonwealth Games gold, two Oceania and Australia junior titles, and a U23 duathlon world bronze under her belt, she was tapped to join Crown Racing in the Supertri League series.

From the Port Elizabeth camp, Lomè Gouws is carving her place among the next generation of South African triathletes. A victory at the Langebaan Championship, silver at the national championships, and wins across the African Cup circuit have already established her as a name to watch on the continent.

At London 2023, Chilean skateboarder Martin Jacque brought his street-honed skills into the Pho3nix fold. The youngest athlete ever named to Chile’s national skateboarding team, Martin has since earned an Olympic Solidarity scholarship, added national titles across South America, and set a record score for Chile at a World Championship, all while keeping his sights firmly on LA 2028.

Meanwhile, Poland’s Weronika Dawidek has continued her steady climb in Alpine snowboarding after attending London 2023. She added a ninth Junior Polish title and senior national bronze, alongside top performances in the Europa Cup and World Championships, underscoring the resilience and determination that Pho3nix Future seeks to nurture in every young athlete.

Class of 2022: Giving Back

For others, the journey has come full circle as they return to inspire the next generation.

Filipina triathlete Gene Heart Quiambao (Phuket 2022) has been open about her struggles with illness and body image, using her platform – including a feature in Vogue – to spark conversations around keeping girls engaged in sport. Despite setbacks, she continues to mentor at Pho3nix Future Camps in Thailand, offering encouragement that resonates deeply with participants.

Australian surfer Kobi Clements (Sydney 2022) has balanced his pursuit of Challenger Series qualification with a growing online profile, his viral barrel rides inspiring fans worldwide. Just as importantly, he has returned as a mentor at the Gold Coast camp, sharing insights with up-and-coming athletes.

And hurdler Tayleb Willis, also from the 2022 Sydney camp, went on to represent Australia at the Paris Olympics in the 110m hurdles. Now recovering from injury, he has stepped into a mentorship role as well, helping guide others even as he prepares for his own return to competition.

A Pathway with Purpose

Pho3nix Future was built on the belief that investing in young athletes creates ripples far beyond a single camp or competition. Today, those ripples are visible in the breakthroughs, victories, and mentorship of its alumni. Whether competing for medals or returning to inspire others, they embody the Pho3nix ideal: rising, giving back, and inspiring generations to come.

Weronika Dawidek, Pho3nix Future Camp alumna, is currently supported by the Pho3nix Athlete Program on the path to the 2026 Winter Olympic Games