Josefa Idem

Josefa Idem, born on September twenty-third, nineteen sixty-four, is a distinguished Italian canoe sprinter who transitioned into a prominent political career. With an impressive record of competing in eight Summer Olympics, she secured five medals, showcasing her exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. Throughout her illustrious career, Idem amassed a remarkable thirty-five international medals, establishing herself as a trailblazer in canoe sprinting.

Idem made history as the first Italian woman to achieve both World Championships and Olympic medals in canoe sprint. Notably, at the two thousand nine World Championships, she earned the title of the oldest medalist in the event's history, a testament to her enduring skill and perseverance.

After retiring from competitive sports, Idem ventured into politics and was elected in two thousand thirteen as a member of the Italian Parliament representing the Democratic Party. Her commitment to public service led to her appointment as Minister for Equal Opportunities, Sport, and Youth Policies in the cabinet of Enrico Letta. However, her tenure was cut short when she resigned on June twenty-fourth, two thousand thirteen, amid a judicial investigation concerning allegedly unpaid taxes.