"Embark on your journey with self-confidence, emphasized by Tyrone Pillay in his inspirational words [Accounts of Athletes]"

Tyrone Pillay: A Bronze Medal Paralympian and Champion of Mobility

Tyrone Pillay, a 13-year employee at Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM), is more than just a Para athlete. Born with a condition affecting his left leg, Pillay has been using prosthetic legs since he was 10 months old. His journey, marked by resilience and determination, has seen him become a beacon of inspiration for many.

Pillay's life took a transformative turn when he watched the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games. Inspired by the athletes' spirit, he decided to trade his cricket gear for the Paralympic arena. His dedication paid off when he brought home a Bronze medal for South Africa in the Shot-Put event at the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Paralympic Games.

Pillay's family played a significant role in shaping his character. Growing up, they treated him as a normal child, and his brother would play rough with him despite his impairment. This upbringing instilled in him a sense of independence and teamwork, lessons he carries with him to this day.

Pillay's commitment to helping others is evident in his work with various organizations. Since 2009, he has been an ambassador for "Jumping Kids", a non-profit organization that provides prosthetics for South African children living with lower extremity amputations. He has also been actively representing and supporting children with lower limb impairments through the "Limbs for Life Foundation."

At the Open Air School since 2011, Pillay has been mentoring kids and youth with amputations, supporting around 200 children. He views mobility as a fundamental right, essential for freedom, choice, and opportunity, and has been instrumental in providing these to many.

Pillay's journey to the Paralympics has not been without challenges. At six years old, his prosthetic leg broke, and he hopped home and fixed it on his own. This incident, rather than deter him, fueled his resolve to overcome obstacles.

Pillay's passion for cricket remains undiminished. He is an avid fan and hopes to inspire kids with impairments through his striving spirit and success in overcoming challenges. He believes that educating people about people with impairments is crucial for promoting the Paralympic Movement.

Pillay views the Paralympics as a place where he was fully accepted and treated as an individual, equal to everyone else. He is proud to support Toyota's mission in providing "Mobility for All", knowing how important mobility is for everyone. The growing support from his Toyota colleagues around the world on his journey to Tokyo 2020 has been a source of encouragement for him.

Pillay learned Shot-Put techniques primarily through YouTube tutorials, and formal training with a coach from Denmark came only a couple weeks before the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Paralympic Games. Despite the late start, his dedication and determination led him to success.

Tyrone Pillay's story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of a positive attitude. He views his impairment as a gift and believes that embracing it has given him a second chance at life. His journey serves as an inspiration to many, proving that with the right mindset, no obstacle is insurmountable.

"Embark on your journey with self-confidence, emphasized by Tyrone Pillay in his inspirational words [Accounts of Athletes]"