A few days ago, Instagram overtook TikTok as the world’s most downloaded app, which highlights the power of the Meta platform. The social media network is also the tool actors, chefs, sportspeople, writers and others use to reach out to people living in the remotest of corners. We spoke to two women athletes — Aditi Chauhan and Sheetal Devi — about what makes Instagram special to them.

Aditi Chauhan

The goalkeeper for the Indian national football team has defied stereotypes and despite facing ACL injuries, her passion for representing India has never wavered. She founded the She Kicks Football Academy and the Aditi Chauhan Foundation to empower underprivileged girls through football. Her Instagram account exemplifies dedication to breaking barriers and inspiring future generations.

The power of Instagram…

It’s a great platform for me to reach out to a wide audience and share my journey, my passion with an audience that relates to me. Having played for the Indian national football team and being the first female to play in the premier league I feel I have a responsibility to share my knowledge and experience with aspiring youngsters, especially girls, and offer guidance for their career. I hope to use this platform even better by providing content that can be helpful and useful for my audience.

Overcoming ACL injuries…

It’s the sheer will to make a comeback, to prove that anything is possible if you have your heart and mind set on something. It’s not an easy journey at all; it tested me physically, mentally and emotionally, but I am determined to learn and keep working and moving forward with consistency and commitment. I believe in controlling the ‘controllables’ and the only thing in my control is hard work, so I’ll keep doing that and leave the rest to God.

The first game…

I’ll never forget that feeling and that’s the feeling that inspires me when I think of getting back in the field. It’s a magical feeling when you don’t think about anything else, nothing else outside those white lines matters, it’s just you, your teammates and the ball that matters. I also love the competitiveness that the game brings, you go through a roller coaster of emotions in those 90 minutes and it teaches you so much which I believe no one learns/ teaches in schools… in classrooms. It gives you a taste of real life and unveils your true character.

Sheetal Devi

She is a para-archer who has defied all odds to claim historical achievements, including winning a silver medal at the World Archery Para Championships. Her Instagram account reflects her inspiring journey, one of positivity and resilience. She encourages people to believe in their dreams despite obstacles.

Instagram and connectivity...

By sharing my journey, I’ve received an outpouring of love and support. Witnessing how my story has inspired people from various corners of the globe to pursue their paths is incredibly humbling and fulfilling. I’m touched that my story is reaching many and also inspiring people.

Overcoming career hurdles…

There were many… people making fun, bringing my morale down and so on… the significant hurdle was how I would shoot. Watching Armless Archer Matt’s videos inspired me, but there was no necessary gear in India. That’s when my coach, Kuldeep Kumar Vedwan, designed a releaser, empowering me to excel in archery.

Long-term goals…

Hope, for me, is the belief in goodness, and dreams represent the pursuit of aspirations regardless of circumstances. Our journeys allow us to evolve our dreams; mine shifted from aspiring to be a teacher to becoming an international athlete. This dynamic transformation underscores the enduring spirit of hope and dreams. At present, my dedication is directed towards achieving gold in the Paralympics.