By: Kama Stigall
Audrey Lam-Danback is living proof you are never too young to make a difference.
The 11-year-old figure skater from Greenwich, Connecticut, recently founded "Skate Against Hate," a movement centered on promoting acceptance, kindness and inclusivity within youth sports communities.
She was inspired to create Skate Against Hate after attending the 2026 Olympic Winter Games.
"I saw how sports can bring people from all over the world together," Lam-Danback said. "Everyone spoke different languages and came from different backgrounds, but when they were on the ice, they supported and respected each other. At the same time, I also saw stories online about athletes and kids facing bullying and hate, especially on social media. Skating has always been a place where I feel confident and accepted, where I can just be myself, and I wanted other kids to feel that way, too."
Audrey Lam-Danback. photo by Jeff Um
Her vision quickly turned into action.
On May 2, 2026, she organized and hosted her first fundraising exhibition at Wings Arena in Stamford, Connecticut. The event featured several high‑level skaters performing in support of her mission.
"We raised over $20,000 for American Ice Theatre," Lam-Danback said. "It showed me how powerful the skating community can be when we come together for a good cause."
For her mother, Martha Lam, watching Audrey contribute to the sport she loves has been inspiring.
"Seeing her combine her passion for figure skating with a purpose bigger than herself has been incredibly meaningful for our family," Lam said. "What makes us most proud is not just her dedication to skating, but the empathy, courage and compassion she shows every day."
The young skater is already looking ahead and is eager to expand Skate Against Hate's reach.
"My goal is to keep growing Skate Against Hate and make an even bigger positive impact both on and off the ice," she said. "I hope that future fundraisers will help us create scholarship opportunities for kids who want to skate but might not be able to afford it."
Lam‑Danback hopes her movement will encourage young skaters everywhere to use their voices — and their hearts — to uplift their communities.
"I want other kids to know that you don't have to be an adult to make a difference — even small actions can have a big impact when you lead with kindness," she said.
To learn more or donate to Skate Against Hate, visit: https://www.skateagainsthate.org/
