“Fight for your dreams, age is not a limit”: Atheyna in UMECIT tribute

UMECIT had the honor of paying a heartfelt tribute to our outstanding Olympic champion and student of the Bachelor of Physical Education, Atheyna Bylon. This recognition not only celebrates her historic achievement as the first Panamanian woman to win an Olympic medal, but also her integrity, fighting spirit, leadership and commitment to the country.

Atheyna, with her usual humility and strength, shared some words full of inspiration: “We all have an expiration date, we have to fight for our dreams.” Moved, she explained what it means to represent Panama on the biggest stage in world sport: “It’s nice to represent your country, to hear the anthem and to wave the flag. Every sacrifice of more than four years, away from your family and celebrations, is worth it when you go out on the street and they congratulate you. I say: 'it was worth it.'”

The importance of this achievement for her lies not only in her personal success, but in her representation of Panamanian women. “When they told me that I was the first woman to win an Olympic medal for Panama, I hadn’t fully accepted it, but I always had the goal of bringing home a medal from the Olympic Games. I am very happy,” Atheyna said proudly.

She also shared her academic journey with her husband, showing that, although it is not easy, “everything can be achieved.” Since she started at the academy, Atheyna and her husband set the goal of completing a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education. “It is not easy to complete the degree, but it can be achieved. This is a piece of advice: everything can be achieved,” she reiterated.

During the tribute, the Rector of UMECIT, Dr. José Alberto Nieto Rojas, highlighted the impact that Atheyna Bylon has had on the educational community and the country. He pointed out that "as a woman, Atheyna is a source of inspiration for many young people who, due to various circumstances, have not had the opportunity to study. Her example shows that, with determination and effort, barriers can be overcome and significant goals achieved."

The Rector also revealed that Atheyna is at a crucial stage in her life, probably embarking on her own project. “Surely, her next step will be to open her own gym to instruct the new generations. It is a powerful message for our students: they must dare to be whatever they want to be. At UMECIT, we have always supported sport and that has allowed us to achieve great success.”

This tribute not only celebrates Atheyna's sporting achievements, but also reinforces UMECIT's commitment to the comprehensive development of its students, encouraging both academic performance and personal and professional growth.

At UMECIT, Atheyna is more than just an exceptional student and athlete; she is a symbol of perseverance and determination for all of our students. Her message is clear and forceful: fight for your dreams, age is not a limit.