Olympic champion stresses the power of choice for women

"The improvement of Chinese women's social status is achieved through our contributions to society. The most important thing is that we have the opportunities to contribute," said Yang Yang, China's first Winter Olympic champion and a member of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference.

"Women have diverse roles in society, excelling in multitasking, whether it's being a mother, a daughter or a professional in the workplace. These multifaceted roles have endowed us with enhanced strengths, and we hope to receive more understanding and support," she added.

As International Women's Day approaches, Yang said during the ongoing two sessions in Beijing that one aspect of women's empowerment is having the chance to choose their careers according to their own will.

"As an athlete, I'm fortunate to have been able to fully utilize my talent and achieve what I have today," Yang said.

She made history by winning the gold medal in the women's 500-meter short-track speed skating at the 2002 Salt Lake Winter Olympics.

Yang is currently vice-president of the World Anti-Doping Agency and served as an International Olympic Committee member from 2010 to 2018.

"I grew up in a small city in Northeast China. Sports definitely opened my eyes and brought me from a little village to the world, so that I could get an opportunity to see the world and chase my dreams," she said.

"There are many female athletes in Chinese sports history who have made great strides in the Olympics and world championships. Their achievements have inspired many young women to be brave enough to pursue and realize their dreams. Women in sports hold great value not only for themselves but also for society."