The inspirational, innovative, incredible, extraordinary and extremely empowered Ellie Cole

Australia’s most decorated female Paralympian adds the 2021 Ultra Tune MAXIM HOT 100 to her collection of 17 Paralympic Games medals. In this winner’s cover photo shoot and interview she discusses her amazing career achievements, facing adversity, her underlying drive to change the narrative of disability and being crowned MAXIM’s most influential woman of the year…

- SANTI PINTADO

Congratulations on topping the 2021 Ultra Tune MAXIM HOT 100 list, Ellie. How does it feel to be No.1?

Never has there been a better time for minority groups to have the spotlight and the opportunities to showcase their authentic selves. I have always been inspired to set an example and start the conversation on embracing differences. Awareness is a powerful thing. This MAXIM cover is reframing the message of diversity and normalizing the portrayal of people with disabilities. To have an opportunity like this is very humbling.

You’ve had many number one finishes in your career. How does this one compare?

My athletic career has partnered well with advocating for others. Although my professional and personal life are incomparable in some ways, the sport has given me such a wonderful platform to challenge others to think about their own thoughts that can be stigmatizing. To be recognized as a strong woman is certainly a number one finish in my personal life and one that I will always strive for.

For those who don’t know much about you, describe your background and life story (so far) in a nutshell.

I had a one in 10 million chance of having a Neurosarcoma. I was diagnosed, against all odds, at the age of three, and against all odds, I also survived and started swimming for rehabilitation. I loved to play sport when I was a child and through this found passion. I have been able to secure myself 17 Paralympic medals and the title of most decorated female Paralympian in Australian history. Not bad for a girl who just loves to swim.