A BBC Gladiators star has inspired young Brummies to "never give up" in a powerful message aimed at the next generation. Karenjeet Kaur Bains, 29, from Warwick, first appeared on the show in January 2024 as Athena, becoming the first South Asian and Sikh woman to join the cast.
From Powerlifting Champion to TV Star
Karenjeet is not only known for her television presence but also as a Commonwealth Powerlifting Championships queen, having won the junior title. She is the first British Sikh woman to represent her country at both European and World championships. Additionally, she excelled academically, studying accounting at Durham University.
Empowering Girls at the Girls of Brum Event
Speaking at the Girls of Brum event at the Alexander Arena in Perry Barr on Thursday, June 11, Karenjeet delivered a strong message to women and girls about achieving their goals. She told BirminghamLive: "Just because someone hasn't done it before - sometimes you have to be the first person to walk that pathway. I've done that - but you can be the next trailblazer, be it in another sport - it would be incredible."
She added: "Just know that if you have it in your heart and you believe this is what you're destined to do, don't ever give up on that dream. It's not going to be easy, but the journey will be worth it I promise."
Hundreds of young girls attended the event, which aimed to empower women in Perry Barr. Karenjeet expressed her excitement: "I'm just really excited to be here. It's a fantastic opportunity for the girls and I'm looking forward to getting stuck in myself."
