Inclusive Golf & Saving the Planet? Maria Fassi Shows Us How.
It's truly heartening to witness professional athletes stepping up to make a positive impact on the world around them. One such remarkable individual is Maria Fassi, a distinguished golfer on the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) and Mexico's representative at the Olympic Games in 2021. And let's find out how she became Sustainable Golf Champion at GEO Foundation, the international non-profit entirely dedicated to helping accelerate sustainability in and through golf.
Maria's commitment to using her platform for the greater good is evident through her active involvement in sustainability and climate action initiatives. As someone who understands the influence of sports in connecting and empowering people, she has taken significant strides in championing sustainability within the golfing community.
The Maria Fassi Foundation, established by the golfer herself, is a testament to her dedication to creating a more inclusive environment for kids of all abilities. Through her project, Fassi's Friends she endeavors to foster a sense of belonging and a love for golf among young individuals, regardless of their background or challenges.
In 2019, Maria participated in the Dow Great Lakes Bay Invitational, where she played an instrumental role in the SOAR event - an immersive inclusion leadership gathering. At this event, she emphasized the importance of greater female representation in sports and encouraged the participation of individuals with disabilities in the world of sports. Her advocacy for inclusivity and diversity is truly commendable.
Maria's journey toward advocating for sustainable golf has been shaped by eye-opening experiences during her travels. Witnessing the aftermath of environmental catastrophes, such as the devastating forest fires in Australia and the destructive hurricanes in the Bahamas, left a profound impact on her perspective.
She recognized the urgency and importance of sustainability as a means to minimize the impact of global climate change. Maria believes that we must value our ecosystems as much, if not more, than material possessions. With her powerful words, she urges all of us to understand that our planet is our home, and it is our duty to respect and preserve it for future generations.
I feel privileged to share stories like Maria Fassi's, where pro athletes are leading the charge in sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. Let's celebrate Maria's efforts and be inspired to follow her lead in making a positive impact on our planet. Together, we can create a brighter, greener, and more sustainable future.