Brazil’s most successful Paralympic athlete, with 15 medals from two Games, swimmer Daniel Dias knows that solid preparation and total dedication pave the way to the podium. And the same applies to organising the world’s biggest sporting event, for which 70,000 volunteers will be hired. For Dias, these people are “fundamental pieces of the puzzle” and examples to be followed.

“Volunteers are extremely important for any large event,” said Dias, who won six gold medals at London 2012, all in world-record times. “In the Games, they are one of the fundamental pieces of a very complex puzzle. Volunteers have that spirit of someone who is always ready to help and do their best. Everyone is looking for an example to follow, and the volunteers provide this example. For sure, those who volunteer at the Rio 2016 Games will be heroes to many people.”

There will be more than 500 roles to be filled by volunteers from all over the world, in nine main categories: customer services, sports, press and communications, operational support, ceremonies production, protocol and languages, healthcare services, technology and transport. Click here to find out more (registration is open until 15 November).

“It’s very good to see these people who are always ready to help. And the best part is that they do it with a huge smile on their faces, with great warmth,” said Dias, who also won four gold, four silver and one bronze at Beijing 2008. “Sometimes, we are so nervous, with such an enormous responsibilities – like fighting for medals or carrying our country’s flag – so a few laughs are very helpful for relaxation.” 

Some of the specialist sports volunteers have direct contact with athletes during competition and often go out of their way to provide special help. Dias remembers how one volunteer helped ensure that his family was able to see him compete at the London Games (see the following below).

Candidates must be at least 18 years old in February 2016 and be available during the Games period. Click here to apply.