Danielle Madam, queen of shot put: “My generation wants to do”

ROME – His life is made up of connections. Between Italy and Cameroon, where my mother lives. Between the athletics track and the nuns who raised it. Between the degree in Communication, innovation and multimedia and the conduction of the Rai TV program “European Nights”. Now Danielle Madam, 25, five-time Italian youth shot put champion, is also Tim’s new face for the 5G campaign. “The experience on the set, the Acqua Acetosa athletics track in Rome, was positive and fun. I got tired like in training – she jokes -, but I’m happy because they believed in me and in my story. The ‘strength of connections’ is not just a spot, but a value that I share. Being in connection with others also helps to find strength and motivation to carry out ambitious projects and project towards the future”.

Together with her, Madam, also Matteo Berrettini
“A great champion that I admire. Before us two took part in the campaign, among others, Federica Pellegrini. I appreciate her for the career she’s had and for the woman that she is.”

You have perceived the progress of the development of technology in recent years better than others.

“Decidedly. Until a few years ago my mother, who lives in Cameroon, to talk to me she had to find a phone booth, the minutes available were few. Now through video calls and the best Internet connection we can see each other at any time. And then it’s surprising to speak from Pavia and be heard at the same time in Los Angeles”.

Danielle arrived in Italy when she was seven and after the death of her uncle, her only guardian, she never let herself be discouraged. From the age of 11 to 18 she lived in a family home run by nuns, a period not counted by the State for obtaining Italian citizenship because the structure that hosted her was not recognized as her residence. The happy ending in 2021 (and not in 2030), after a long obstacle course. In the meantime, she has completed the entire course of study, from elementary school to graduation.

What made you suffer the most in those years?

“I couldn’t accept it. It was as if I had passed all the exams at the University but I wasn’t allowed to discuss the thesis. I couldn’t represent Italy on the platform, I couldn’t compete abroad. I missed an important train, at 18 I couldn’t join a military sports group. It’s at that age that the entry into athletics is played that counts”.

What prompted you not to give up everything?

“Sport has been my inspiration. She made me discover my personality, who Danielle really is. Today I am who I am thanks to commitment, dedication and patience. I was small and alone and for this reason I could have taken many wrong paths. Instead I realized that that world was mine and not even the biggest disappointment would have taken it away from me. Today I’m proud to tell my redemption story in schools. In middle school I would have liked to have such an example to follow too”.

She was a student, today she is a worker and a sportswoman. Is it time to stop the storytelling of young slackers and lost among TikTok videos?

“The facts say the opposite, even in the media it must emerge that we are a generation that wants to do, that is committed. I’ve done a thousand jobs to support myself and I’m proud of it. Now I know I have the tools to get out of any situation.”

The strength of connections, we said. She graduated in Communication and worked in TV. You are an example for young people, do you realize that?

“I don’t feel like I’ve arrived who knows where, but I am aware of this. When I talk to the guys I tell them never to give up, to always choose the hardest path because it’s the one that leads the furthest. And to believe in your dreams”.

Such a determined person will certainly already have big plans.

“To begin with, feel good and get back to racing at my best. Last one was an injury filled season. I am then planning and building my future in the field of communication, an area in which I specialize. Back on TV? Maybe”.