Help Me Chase the Olympic Dream – From Team GB to Team France

Hey everyone,

This isn’t just a fundraiser. This is the beginning of a new chapter, a fresh start, and the pursuit of a lifelong dream.

My name is Zakarya and for those who know me, you’ll know Judo isn’t just my sport — it’s my passion, my discipline, my everything. I was once proudly part of Team GB, training hard, representing my country, and climbing the ranks. But life, as it does, threw me into the deepest waters.

In October 2024, everything changed. I lost both of my parents, one after the other. Within a matter of weeks, my world turned upside down. I was dealing with grief I couldn’t put into words — all while juggling university exams, elite-level Team GB competitions, and trying to hold myself together when nothing made sense anymore.

Then came another difficult decision: a change of path. With Team GB choosing to fund other athletes, I had to face a tough truth — no matter how hard I worked, politics and selections can change everything. I was no longer funded, no longer supported, and no longer able to continue the dream in the UK.

But where one door closes, another opens.

I’ve now been given the incredible opportunity to start fresh with Team France . I’ve relocated to Paris, started a new life, and been selected into the French National Squad — a huge milestone and a massive leap of faith. This transition hasn’t been easy: new country, new system, new battles. I went from having everything — support, structure, stability — to starting from scratch with nothing but heart, grit, and belief.

Now, I’m fully focused on making it to the Olympics 2028 in Los Angeles . And I truly believe this is possible. The dream is alive — but I need your help to fuel it.

What the funds will help with:

• Training expenses (gym, mat time, coaching fees)

• Travel and accommodation for competitions and camps

• Essential kit and nutrition

• Everyday living costs while I fully commit to elite training

This isn’t just about me. This is about everyone who’s ever had to rebuild themselves from the ground up. Everyone who’s had to smile through grief, make brave choices when life breaks your heart, and still believe in something bigger.

With your support, I can show that it’s possible to rise again, stronger, sharper, and more focused than ever.

Let’s do this together. Let’s SMASH IT.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, supporting, sharing — and believing in me.

Much love,

Zakarya Berbachi-Serir✨

#Olympics2028 #JudoDream #TeamFrance #NewChapter #FromPainToParis