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Career Highlights

David Lega’s career

is defined by groundbreaking achievements across sports, entrepreneurship, and public service, with each phase reflecting his commitment to leadership, resilience, and making a global impact. Below are some key highlights of his remarkable journey:

David Lega and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen


Sports

David’s early career as a Paralympic swimmer earned him international recognition and a place among the world’s top athletes:

Triumph of the Human Spirit Award: In 1996, David was honored with this prestigious award at the Atlanta Paralympic Games, recognizing his determination and perseverance in the face of physical challenges.

14 World Records: Throughout his swimming career, David set 14 world records, including multiple European and World Championship titles.

Jury Member for Svenska Dagbladet’s Bragdguldet: David currently serves on the jury for Sweden’s most prestigious sports award, Bragdguldet, which honors Swedish athletes for extraordinary achievements. His role as a jury member highlights his continued contribution to the sports world, ensuring recognition for athletic excellence.

Entrepreneurship and Leadership

David transitioned from sports into business and leadership, where he applied his drive and innovative thinking to a range of industries:

Leadership Development and Speaker of the Year: As a leadership consultant, David has empowered organizations and leaders by fostering innovation and resilience. His impactful work was recognized when he was named Speaker of the Year in Sweden (2010). Through his motivational speaking, David has reached global audiences, sharing powerful insights on leadership, overcoming adversity, and personal growth.

Founder of LegaWear: David created LegaWear, a fashion brand that custom-makes suits tailored to fit every body type, regardless of physical disabilities, and ships worldwide. This innovative approach ensures inclusivity in fashion, offering stylish, comfortable, and high-quality garments to individuals who often struggle to find well-fitted clothing in traditional markets.

Outstanding Young Person of the World (2004): David’s entrepreneurial and leadership contributions were internationally recognized when he received this accolade, joining a distinguished group of leaders such as John F. Kennedy and Elvis Presley.



Political Leadership

David’s political career reflects his deep commitment to human rights, religious freedom, and advocating for the most vulnerable:

Deputy Mayor of Gothenburg: In this role, David was responsible for urban development and corporate governance, playing a critical role in improving the city’s economic landscape and quality of life for its 570,000 residents.

Member of the European Parliament (2019-2024): Representing Sweden, David was a leading voice on key global issues. He served on the Foreign Affairs Committee and the Subcommittee on Human Rights, where he worked to protect human rights and defend democratic values.

Co-Chair of the Intergroup on Children’s Rights: David led efforts to protect children from exploitation, with a focus on combating online abuse. His work resulted in strengthened European legislation to safeguard children’s rights.

Advocacy for Peace and combatting antisemitism

David’s commitment to peace, security, and religious freedom has driven his efforts to foster understanding and cooperation globally:

International Task Force Against Online Antisemitism: As an MEP, David co-chaired this global task force, tackling the rise of online extremism and hate speech, and advocating for better safeguards against digital antisemitism.

Founder of the Abraham Accords Network: David founded this network to promote the historic peace agreements between Israel and its neighbors, facilitating dialogue and cooperation on a global scale.

Current Roles

David’s advocacy continues to evolve as he takes on new leadership roles:

Senior Adviser to the European Jewish Association (EJA): In this ongoing role, David focuses on protecting Jewish life and combating antisemitism across Scandinavia and Europe. He advocates for the adoption of the IHRA definition of antisemitism and promotes religious freedom, ensuring the security and well-being of Jewish communities.

Chair of the IPAC Alumni Council (2024–Present): David leads this initiative within the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC), where he works to expand the network and provide strategic guidance to current lawmakers in their efforts to counter authoritarian influence and uphold democratic values

Social media

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