“In rowing, you move forward by looking in the opposite direction. I learned that it’s ok to look back, as long as you keep pushing forward.” – Arshay Cooper

We’re catching up with the whirlwind that is Arshay Cooper! You’re invited to join the livestream to ask questions and share your experiences with Arshay in real time – just comment on the discussion thread at any of the livestream destinations.

Besides being a rower, Arshay is a Benjamin Franklin award-winning author, the protagonist of the critically acclaimed film “A Most Beautiful Thing,” nominated for an NAACP Image Award in 2020. He’s also a Golden Oar recipient for his contributions to the sport of rowing, motivational speaker, and activist, particularly around issues of accessibility to rowing and other sports for under-resourced communities.

Arshay grew up on the West Side of Chicago and in 1997 joined and later captained the country’s first all-Black high school rowing team at Manley High School. He dedicated two years of his life to AmeriCorps, focusing on diversity and inclusion, and continues to speak and represent across the country and around the world; most recently bringing his message of empowerment through sports to youth in South Africa and leading a youth rowing camp at Craftsbury Outdoor Center in Vermont.

With gratitude, to our supporters & sponsors!