Birgit Skarstein is a Paralympic Champion, World Champion, world record holder in rowing and a prominent global advocate for the value of an inclusive society and opportunities for people with disabilities. Skarstein’s public service includes four years on the Committee of Finance in Oslo City Council and five years on the Norwegian Advisory Board of Biotechnology. She has served as Chair of the board of the Norwegian Association of Youth with Disabilities. She is currently in her second term on the Athletes Commission in the International Paralympic Committee while still competing at top international level. She is Co-Founder of the WE foundation, which promotes disability inclusion in sports, work life and social spheres. Skarstein also holds seats on several boards. She is a six-time World Champion and holds 12 World Championship medals in rowing and Nordic skiing. She has competed in five Paralympic Games and was the Norwegian flag bearer in 2018. Skarstein aims to defend her Tokyo 2020 win at the Paralympic Games in Paris 2024. Globally and nationally, she figures on TV, TEDx, radio and podcasts, in political engagements and programmes such as the US Department of State's International Visitor Leadership Program and World Economic Forum Global Shapers Community. Skarstein currently chairs the Future Advisory Board of Reitan Retail, guiding responsible retail practices.