Kiama local, Joan Hughes is playing a vital role in this year's Paris Olympics and Paralympic Games.

She is currently in the French capital working as a support volunteer to provide spectators with disabilities, or those who need assistance a helping hand to navigate the venues and events of the Paris Games.

When the call out came for volunteers, Joan put her hand up half way through 2023. She has previously volunteered with the 2000 Sydney Olympic and Paralympic Games, which she believes strengthened her application.

Joan has developed a keen sense of recognising fellow Aussies around France, the sight of green and gold making her proud.

Joan Hughes

“I have connected with many Aussies by recognising their accents or those wearing green and gold. Some are supporting athletes, others are working in Paris and I’ve met Aussies who are holidaying in France,” she said.

Back on her home turf, Joan is heavily involved with volunteering, mostly on governance boards that focus on ageing issues.

“Being a volunteer in any capacity is a way of giving back to the community who have provided me with many educational and professional opportunities throughout my life”, she said.

There were 45,000 registered volunteers at the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics responsible for welcoming spectators and guiding them around venues, as well as assisting with sporting events. 

Her experience has been a fulfilling one, and she is keen to continue volunteering overseas in the future, “‘I will never forget my volunteer experiences in Paris and the privilege of meeting so many wonderful people. Travelling in another country is always an enriching experience and what’s not to like about being in Paris, the city of light…. and love.”