Dream Con Brings Attention To The Limit-Breakers of Sports for 2025!

For Black History Month 2025, Dream Con highlights three athletes who have continued to be their authentic selves while inspiring others through their showmanship.

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Lamar Jackson

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The NFL has been captivated by Lamar Jackson, the Baltimore Ravens' quarterback, whose unparalleled speed and passing skills are game-changers. His 2019 MVP award, at the youngest age in league history, silenced those who questioned his passing ability. As a dual-threat quarterback, Jackson has revolutionized the position, earning him widespread popularity and many records. His leadership inspires future athletes, even outside of competitions; he's a humble man.  

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His inspiring perseverance matches his on-field achievements; Jackson faced considerable doubt about his unconventional professional quarterbacking ability, yet triumphed. He's opened doors for a new breed of versatile quarterbacks and an authentic expression for the love of anime and video games –  two of Jackson's greatest interests! He considers anime to have superior storytelling. His enjoyment of varied forms of entertainment highlights his capacity for finding joy and inspiration in surprising places.

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Zeb Powell

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Zeb Powell, North Carolina native and Red Bull Snowboarder, brings a unique and groundbreaking style and diverse approach to the slopes. Making history in 2020, he became the first Black snowboarder to win gold in the X Games Knuckle Huck, thrilling fans with his fearless and creative performance. Powell’s innovative moves and vibrant personality make him a standout in an underrepresented sport. 

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Not only has he become more well-known, his achievements have also emphasized the significance of representation in winter sports. Powell's advocacy for inclusivity extends beyond snowboarding; he pushes boundaries on and off the slopes, encouraging more people of color to join the sport.

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Simone Biles

Simone Biles stands as a gymnastics legend, her impressive collection of 25 World Championship medals and seven Olympic medals surpasses all others in history. The official rulebook names some moves after her because of her amazing gymnastic skills. 

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Beyond her athletic achievements, Biles has become a powerful advocate for mental health, courageously speaking out about the importance of self-care and prioritizing well-being, even during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Her bravery and transparency have sparked global conversations about the pressures faced by elite athletes. Passion Pictures’ animated short film, Simone Biles vs Trolls, is about Biles as she confronts the online bullies targeting her on social media. Women’s experiences of pressure, including criticism of their appearance, are central to the film. This film motivates people to defy the expectations of those who criticize them.

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Next Article: Dream Con Spotlights Black Innovators in Tech for 2025