Discover how Serbian cross-country skier Anja Ilić made history at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina. Read her insights on mentorship, gender equality, and empowering the next generation of female athletes with SheSkillz Global.

The Olympic Dream: Anja Ilić at the 2026 Winter Games

Anja, thank you for joining us! First, congratulations on competing at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina. How did that moment feel for you?

It was an incredible experience and a dream come true. I had worked and trained for years for that moment, so when I stood at the start line, the feeling was a mix of pride, excitement, and great gratitude. Representing your country at the Olympic Games is something every athlete dreams of, and for me it was one of the most beautiful moments of my career.

©Private photo: Anja Ilić competing in cross-country skiing at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina

Mentorship and Support: How Guidance and Role Models Shaped Anja Ilić’s Journey

Your sister has been part of the SheSkillz Global and IBU mentoring program, and you’ve also had mentorship from Mina Ilić. How have these connections influenced your journey?

Mentorship and support from people who already have experience in sports are very important, especially when competing at major events. Through such programs you can learn a lot, not only about training but also about mental strength, discipline, and balancing sport and life. My sister, Mina Ilić, gave me many useful pieces of advice and support, which helped me believe in myself and continue to improve.

Breaking Barriers: Advice for Young Girls in Sport

As one of the first Serbian women in recent years to compete in cross-country skiing at the Olympics, what message would you like to share with young girls looking to break barriers?

After 12 years, Serbia finally had a representative in cross-country skiing, and I am very happy that I was the one who managed to achieve that.

I would tell them to believe in themselves and never give up on their dreams, even when the path is difficult. It doesn’t matter how popular a sport is or how many people think something is hard, with dedication, patience, and love for what you do, it is possible to achieve a lot. I believe I am a good example of that.

Overcoming Challenges in Less-Represented Sports in Serbia

What were the biggest obstacles you faced as a female athlete in a less-represented sport in Serbia, and how did you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges was the lack of conditions and support for a sport like cross-country skiing. However, with great dedication and with the help of my family, coaches, and people who believe in me, I managed to continue training and improving.

I learned that obstacles can become motivation to work even harder. Throughout the year I spend very little time in Serbia because we don’t have prepared tracks or roller-ski tracks. Whenever I am here, I try to help the Zvezda Ski Club progress and work on promoting skiing on Zlatibor.

©Private photo: Anja Ilić training in cross-country skiing

Future Goals: Personal and Professional Growth

What are your next goals, both in your sporting career and in your personal development journey?

In terms of sports, I want to continue improving, achieve better results at major competitions, and represent Serbia in the best possible way. This year I focused on preparing for the Olympic Games, and next year we have the World Championships, where I hope to achieve my best result so far.

In terms of personal development, I want to keep learning. Every year techniques change, and we must work hard to keep up with the best. I would also like to help younger athletes through mentorship.

What message do you hope to leave for the next generation of female athletes in Serbia and globally?

I want them to know that anything is possible if they believe in themselves and work hard. It’s important to be brave, persistent, and not afraid to try something new. Every generation has the opportunity to push the boundaries even further.

Role Models and Gender Equality in Sport

How important is it for girls to have role models, both in sports and in everyday life, to believe in their own potential?

Role models are very important because they show that dreams are achievable. When you see someone who succeeded through hard work and dedication, it becomes easier to believe that you can do the same. That’s why it’s important for athletes and public figures to be good examples for young people.

I had many role models in skiing, and I always watched how they prepared, how they approached competitions, and how they progressed. Observing them helped me a lot throughout my career.

What does “gender equality” mean to you personally, and how do you try to embody it in your career and daily life?

For me, gender equality means that everyone has equal opportunities, regardless of gender. In sports, that means that girls should have the same opportunities for training, competitions, and career development. Through my work, I try to show that girls can be just as successful and strong in sports.

Empowering the Next Generation Through Mentorship

How do you see mentorship and community (like SheSkillz Global) changing the future for girls in sports and other fields?

Mentorship and community provide support, knowledge, and motivation. When girls have a network of people who support them, it becomes easier to overcome challenges and keep moving forward. Programs like these can open new opportunities and inspire more girls to get involved in sports or pursue their goals.

Closing Remarks

Anja Ilić’s journey to the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan and Cortina is a powerful story of perseverance, passion, and determination. As a Serbian cross-country skier who returned Serbia to the Olympic stage in this sport after more than a decade, Anja represents more than athletic achievement, she stands as a role model for girls and young women in sport.

Through dedication, resilience, and the support of mentorship programs and communities like SheSkillz Global, Anja’s story highlights how important guidance, opportunity, and belief can be in shaping an athlete’s path. Her experience reflects a broader mission: empowering the next generation of women to pursue their goals, break barriers, and believe in their potential.

As conversations around gender equality in sport continue to grow, stories like Anja’s remind us why visibility, mentorship, and support networks matter. Every step she takes on the track inspires young athletes to dream bigger, work harder, and create new possibilities for the future of women in sport.