Meet Councillor Nicola Olyslager

Interview with Councillor Nicola Olyslager: From Olympic Heights to Community Wellbeing

By Rita Skeeter

Introduction

Nicola Olyslager, newly appointed councillor at Upper Glasgow Council, is no stranger to striving for excellence. Before stepping into public service, Nicola soared to international acclaim as an Olympic high jumper, winning medals at the Tokyo and Paris Games and setting records that inspired a generation of athletes. Today, she brings the same passion and discipline to her work in local government, championing opportunities for all residents to lead active, connected lives.

Q: Nicola, your journey from world-class athlete to councillor is remarkable. How did your time in sport shape your approach to community leadership?

Nicola Olyslager:“My years in athletics taught me lessons that go far beyond the track. Sport is about more than competition—it’s about consistency, resilience, and building relationships. I learned that being active with friends isn’t just good for your body; it’s essential for your mindset and for deepening personal connections. These are values I want to bring to Upper Glasgow Council.”

Nicola’s sporting career was defined by her ability to overcome challenges and inspire others. She credits her coach and support team for helping her develop not just physical strength, but a positive, growth-oriented mindset. “Every time I faced a setback, I learned to see it as an opportunity to grow. That’s something I hope to instill in our community—helping people see that being active together can lift us all.”  

Q: What specific initiatives are you hoping to champion as a councillor?

Nicola Olyslager:“One of my biggest goals is to make opportunities for active living accessible to everyone. Whether it’s upgrading local parks, supporting community sports, or creating new spaces for people to gather and move, I want every resident to feel welcome and empowered. We know that when people are active together, it fosters a positive mindset and strengthens relationships.”

Upper Glasgow Council’s recent investments in parks and sporting facilities reflect this vision. Projects like the transformation of Fairweather Park Oval and the creation of new green spaces have already begun to bring people together, celebrating shared achievements and forging new friendships. Nicola sees these initiatives as just the beginning: “We’re building more than infrastructure—we’re building community.”

Q: How do you hope your background as an athlete will inspire others in Upper Glasgow?

Nicola Olyslager:“I want people to know that you don’t have to be an Olympian to benefit from sport. The real magic happens when you’re active with friends, when you support each other, and when you celebrate each other’s progress. My hope is to promote opportunities and events where everyone—regardless of age or ability—can experience that joy.”

Nicola’s advocacy is rooted in her belief that sport and activity are powerful tools for personal and social transformation. She’s committed to working with local organisations, schools, and volunteers to ensure that every member of the community has the chance to participate and thrive.

Q: What message would you share with residents who may feel disconnected or hesitant to get involved?

Nicola Olyslager:“Start small. Join a walking group, try a new activity, or simply spend time outdoors with friends. The most important thing is to take that first step. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your mindset shifts and how much richer your relationships become. My door is always open—I want to hear your ideas and help make Upper Glasgow a place where everyone feels they belong.”

Conclusion

Councillor Nicola Olyslager’s journey from Olympic podiums to council chambers is a testament to the power of sport to shape lives and communities. Her vision for Upper Glasgow is clear: a vibrant, inclusive municipality where being active together is the foundation for wellbeing and connection. As she leads the charge for new opportunities and welcoming spaces, Nicola’s story reminds us all that the lessons of sport—resilience, friendship, and positivity—are for everyone.

Councillor Nicole Olyslager