Summary: Phonak has named first-time Olympian Aaron Small as an official Global Brand Ambassador to promote hearing health and inspire others ahead of the Summer Olympic Games in Paris.
Takeaways:
- Aaron Small aims to raise public awareness about hearing health, overcome the stigma of hearing loss, and highlight the importance of hearing devices.
- Small says he seeks to inspire others by sharing his journey and encouraging them to pursue their dreams despite any limitations.
- Small and his race partner, Jonas Ecker, have qualified to compete for gold at the Paris Olympics, marking the first U.S. men’s team boat to do so in 20 years.
Phonak welcomes first-time Olympian Aaron Small as an official Global Brand Ambassador ahead of the Summer Olympic Games in Paris.
Small is dedicated to raising public awareness about hearing health, overcoming the stigma associated with hearing loss, and highlighting the importance of hearing devices. Additionally, he aims to inspire others and instill self-confidence, encouraging them to pursue their dreams as he has pursued his.
“It is an exciting time as the world prepares for competition this summer. Our partnership with Aaron highlights the convergence of hearing technology and sports, celebrating the values of perseverance, resiliency, and the pursuit of excellence that both worlds share,” says Oliver Frank, vice president of Phonak Marketing. “Aaron’s hearing challenges have added dimensions to his life both in and out of the water, showcasing his adaptability and strength. At Phonak, we create innovative and high-performance hearing solutions that push the boundaries of technology, just as Aaron exemplifies high performance in his sport. Together, with all of our advocates and ambassadors, we envision a world where everyone can live a life without limitations.”
Journey to the Olympics
Small, at the age of 22, has already made his mark in the world of sprint kayak. Hailing from Seattle, Washington, he has become a key figure in the U.S. kayak scene. With an impressive track record at the Pan American Games and winning gold at the Olympic Qualifiers this past April, Small has consistently demonstrated his dedication and skill in the sport, Phonak says.
Alongside his race partner, Jonas Ecker, the Paris Olympics will be the first time in 20 years since the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens that a U.S. men’s team boat has qualified to compete for the gold marking a significant achievement for the country in the sport.
“Competing at the Olympics has been a dream of mine and I am beyond grateful for this opportunity to represent Team USA,” says Olympian Small. “Teaming up with Phonak and sharing my hearing loss story with others has also been an amazing step in this incredible journey. With my waterproof Audéo Life Lumity, I’ve been able to train with them on the water and better interact with everyone in my community. Now as a hearing health ambassador, I’m excited to be able to educate others about the importance of hearing health and to encourage the dreams and ambitions of the younger generation despite any limitations they believe are in their way.”
This month, Small will head to the Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista, CA. In July, ahead of the Paris Olympics, Small and his race partner, Jonas, will compete in the 2024 ICF Canoe Sprint Junior and U23 World Championships.
Photo: Phonak
