Rachel Veldkamp

Rachel Veldkamp is a Special Olympics athlete and Health Messenger from Suriname. She has been a part of Special Olympics Suriname for over 15 years. Rachel’s primary sport and true passion is swimming, and she has proudly won 60 medals in local and international competitions, including World Games. Rachel’s ultimate goal is to reach the top in the Special Olympics, inspire others, and become as successful as her idol, Michael Phelps. Rachel has been a member of the Caribbean Athlete Leadership Council since 2022. An Athlete Leadership Council is a structure where Special Olympics athletes voice their opinions about important issues related to Special Olympics; develop, plan, and implement projects; and serve as a liaison in different areas of the organization providing support and expertise. Rachel also owns a small carpentry and painting business.