Gaz Choudhry’s journey from a Paralympian to an actor is truly inspiring. At the age of 10, he lost his leg due to osteosarcoma, but that did not stop him from achieving greatness in wheelchair basketball. Choudhry’s career highlights include four European Championships, a historic world title, and two Paralympic bronze medals. Despite facing challenges, he credits his family for encouraging his bravery and allowing him to pursue his dreams.
In 2021, Choudhry was awarded an MBE for his contributions to wheelchair basketball, making him one of the few athletes of South Asian descent to represent Team GB in the Olympics or Paralympics. He acknowledges the role of luck and generosity in overcoming barriers and accessing the sport. Choudhry also found inspiration in Joe Jayaratne, a fellow South Asian player, who motivated him to excel in the sport.
Growing up in Karachi and later moving to Ealing, Choudhry fell in love with wheelchair basketball at a young age. The sport gave him a sense of freedom and movement that he had lost after losing his leg. Despite the challenges he faced, Choudhry’s passion for storytelling led him to explore acting. A self-tape audition for a TV show about climate change opened up a new world of possibilities for him.
Choudhry’s acting debut in the TV series “Extrapolations” and his role in the play “Grenfell: In the Words of Survivors” at the National Theatre in London have been transformative experiences for him. He describes acting as a form of redemption, allowing him to give voice to important stories and connect with audiences in a meaningful way.
As South Asian Heritage Month is celebrated from July 18 to August 17, Choudhry’s story serves as a reminder of the power of resilience, determination, and embracing one’s heritage. Sky Sports News’ ‘Free to be Me’ series highlights individual narratives and diverse experiences of those of South Asian heritage, showcasing the rich tapestry of stories within the community. Gaz Choudhry’s journey from adversity to success is a testament to the human spirit and the possibilities that await when one follows their passion.