ROSEAU, Dominica — The Dominica Olympic Committee (DOC) has named a two-athlete
delegation to represent the nation in athletics and swimming at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic
Games, scheduled for 31 October to 13 November 2026 in Senegal. The announcement marks a
significant milestone for Dominican sport, with the country set to compete in swimming at the
Youth Olympic Games for the first time. Dakar 2026 will also make Olympic history as the first
Olympic sporting event to be staged on African soil.
The two-athlete team comprises Jaden Joseph, who will contest the long jump, and Seif Elshekh,
who will compete in the 100m freestyle and 100m butterfly. Both athletes have previously
represented Dominica in international competition and will seek to build on those performances
in Dakar. They will be supported by coaches Nabi Wallace and Ahmed Salem, with Chef de
Mission Ms. Korlita Hamilton leading the delegation.
The delegation’s participation in two disciplines underscores the DOC’s commitment to
expanding opportunities for emerging athletes to compete at the highest international level.
Dominica’s Youth Olympic debut in swimming represents an important milestone in the
development of the sport nationally and broadens the country’s presence at the Games.
“Although the delegation is small, Jaden and Seif are two highly promising athletes whom we
believe have the potential to represent Dominica with distinction for many years,” said DOC
President Mr. Billy Doctrove. “Both athletes have already represented the country and now have
an important opportunity to build on those performances at one of the world’s leading events
for young athletes.
Their selection reflects their talent, discipline and commitment, together
with the sustained work of their coaches and support teams. We are particularly proud that
Dominica will compete in swimming at the Youth Olympic Games for the first time. We are
confident that Jaden and Seif will represent the nation with pride, gain valuable international
experience and provide further inspiration for young athletes across Dominica.”
The Dominica Olympic Committee congratulates the athletes on their selection and extends its
best wishes to the entire delegation as preparations continue for Dakar 2026.
