Donald Soor, a youth leader with intellectual disabilities from Papua New Guinea, remembers being bullied because of his disability. Making friends was a struggle, and speaking in front of others  was extremely stressful for the shy young man. 

Things however started to change when he got involved with Special Olympics Papua New Guinea as a youth leader advocating for people with intellectual disabilities in schools.

“That’s where I met Sylvester. We were paired to visit schools and talk about inclusion. I remember being nervous the first time. I didn’t know what to say. But Sylvester was beside me, and that helped,” recalls Donald.

“He used to stay in his comfort zone,” Sylvester Nandawo, Donald’s unified partner and fellow youth leader, recalls. “Now, he speaks to students and builds awareness.”

Since then, Donald has continued visiting schools with Sylvester, sharing his experiences of being excluded, and how on the flip slide,  being included and given the opportunity to lead, has changed things up for him. Each time he speaks up, he shows other students that it’s possible to step forward, even when it’s difficult.

“I didn’t think I could speak in front of others,” Donald says. “Now I want to help others do the same.”

In Pakistan, another youth leader is helping shift perspectives in his own way.

Meet Musa Hannan, a youth leader with intellectual disabilities, who grew up with autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD),  from Pakistan. Through Special Olympics Pakistan, he became part of a school awareness programme where he was paired with Talha Asif, his unified partner and a developmental therapist. Together, they speak to students about what inclusion means, and how small actions can make a real difference.

“My strategy is to include everyone despite their differences,” Musa says.

Talha also shares, “Inclusion gives students the confidence to participate, to speak, to belong.” He adds, “I’ve seen how just talking about these things openly help others think differently. It helps them understand that people with intellectual disabilities want the same things: respect, connection, and a chance to spark change.”

The school visits aren’t just about awareness – they are about shifting mindsets and making space for new friendships to grow. 

Musa and Donald’s leadership and sharing of their lived experiences in schools, reinforce that  inclusion isn’t a mere concept. It’s something that can, and should be applied daily.

Inclusive classrooms ultimately benefit all learners 

Educators like Laarni R. Alejandro, Principal of P. Villanueva Elementary School, in the Philippines, similarly echo the holistic benefits of inclusive education for all children.

“Inclusivity is strengthened in our school. Learners are more exposed and have the opportunity to strengthen not only their sports inclination but also their physical, social, mental, emotional, and holistic well-being,” she says. 

She was speaking earlier this year at a milestone event where Philippines became the first country in Asia Pacific to officially join the Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion. 

Inclusion doesn’t have to be grandiose. It can begin with a small act of kindness, an open mind, the courage to listen and step out of our comfort zone, as our youth leaders demonstrate. These are the moments that build understanding and bridge differences – the foundation for creating inclusive classrooms and education for all. To follow more stories like these, follow @humanraceasia and @soasiapacific.

The post Celebrating Youth Leaders Inclusive Education appeared first on Human RACE.

Riya, a 22-year-old athlete from Special Olympics Bharat, who is about to compete on the global stage at the World Winter Games (WWG) 2025 in Turin, Italy, shares her journey:

“People used to tease me, saying that I do not have it in me to be a sportsperson. But after I joined Special Olympics Bharat, not only was my confidence boosted, but it also showed others that I have what it takes to be a successful player.”

Riya’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of determination, family support, and the unifying power of sport.

Growing up in the Solan District of Himachal Pradesh in a low-income agricultural family, Riya’s early life was steeped in isolation and discouragement. She recalls, “Previously in school, when people did not know me, I was often overlooked by teachers and bullied by peers. I felt invisible and undervalued. But ever since I joined the movement, people have started recognising me as a good athlete and treated me nicely.”

In 2015, she was introduced to sport when she joined Special Olympics Bharat through the Ganpati Educational Society, an NGO working with individuals with intellectual disabilities. Riya’s journey began with the first-ever race camp held in Solan, a city in India, in 2016, where she discovered her passion for sport. Over time, she participated in multiple sports, including racing, badminton, and football, before choosing floorball as her primary sport. Each competition at the district, state, and national levels not only honed her athletic skills but also played a crucial role in rebuilding her self-confidence and sense of belonging.

Today, Riya’s daily routine reflects her unwavering commitment to excellence. Her mornings start with vigorous physical exercise that fuels her body, mind, and spirit, setting the stage for training sessions, academic responsibilities, and household chores.

Beyond sport, Riya has embraced leadership—captaining her team at the nationals in Gujarat and organising football camps. Her role extends into teaching floorball at her school, where she passes on the skills and confidence she has so diligently built. Moreover, she took ownership of strategising for the upcoming World Winter Games, a goal that drives her every day as she prepares to compete on a global stage.

Family support has been a cornerstone of her success, particularly her mother’s unwavering encouragement. This support, combined with her own perseverance, has transformed people’s perceptions of her into a celebrated athlete and role model.

Riya’s remarkable progress is reflected in her achievements on the field. From winning races to securing her place on the national Special Olympics team, every milestone underscores her hard work and dedication. Her story is not merely about personal triumph but also about inspiring others—demonstrating that with the right opportunities and persistent effort, no obstacle is insurmountable.

Her heartfelt message resonates with everyone who has ever been doubted. As she puts it, “Don’t pay attention to what people say; they will always undermine your capabilities. Keep pushing your boundaries to achieve milestones and just believe in yourself.” Her words encapsulate the essence of her journey—a narrative of transformation, hope, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Riya’s story, like many strong women we know, serves as a powerful reminder that women everywhere, regardless of their backgrounds or circumstances, have the potential to rise above perceived limitations and create their own unique paths to success. We see you; we celebrate you; we are proud of you.

The post Riya’s Journey: From Isolation to the World Winter Games appeared first on Human RACE.

Among these athletes were two young men from Special Olympics Indonesia, Alif Dafa Maulana, a 20-year-old athlete with intellectual disabilities (ID) from Surakarta, Central Java, and his unified partner, Evelino Dilam (Lino), also 20, from the highlands of Pegunungan Bintang, Papua.

Unified Sports® brings together people with and without intellectual disabilities (ID) through sport and competitions to help drive social inclusion, foster meaningful friendships, build mutual understanding and connect in ways they might not otherwise. Together, unified pairs celebrate each other’s strengths and showcase the impact of inclusion, both on and off the field.

Growing up, Alif felt that he lacked direction in his life. While attending a mainstream school, he witnessed others being bullied, and this had a knock-on effect of wearing down his confidence, even when he was not the target.

At 17, Alif eventually transitioned to a special needs school and recalled feeling extremely anxious as he was worried his disability might embarrass his family. However, it was in school that he discovered a passion for football, and with it, a renewed sense of purpose.

His unified partner, Lino, enjoyed staying active. Growing up, he would head into the jungle with makeshift catapults and bows to hunt birds. Later, he joined a football club in Semarang, where he first learned about Special Olympic Indonesia’s club outreach program and was eventually given the opportunity to take part in the Special Olympics South Asia Unified Football Competition as a unified partner.

While excited to compete outside of his home country, Lino admitted to feeling apprehensive as he had little experience working with people with ID.  “I was a little nervous, mostly about how we would communicate (with Alif) during the game.” Thankfully, Alif’s easygoing nature and openness quickly put Lino at ease, and they quickly bonded at the training center. 

For Alif, seeing Lino’s familiar features, reminiscent of a friend from Papua New Guinea, was comforting. This familiarity likely contributed to Alif’s instant trust in Lino and his decision to choose him as a partner. Alif affectionately calls him “kakak” (older brother), and Lino admires Alif’s joyful personality, saying, “every day, he makes me smile and laugh.”

Through unified sports, Alif found a safe space to build his self-confidence. The partnership has been transformative for both young men.

For Alif, being part of a unified pair with Lino meant having someone to rely on and confide in, a teammate who understood his journey and supported him unconditionally. Reflecting on their time together, Alif shared that Lino’s patience and adaptability were essential to his comfort on the field. “A good, unified partner is one who can communicate well and has the patience to face athletes like me,” he said. On the flip side, Lino said, “Alif showed me that having patience and understanding is important, not just in sports but in life.” 

Alif’s self-esteem blossomed as he developed a stronger sense of self-reliance and independence. “These skills will help him to play sports better, as he becomes more confident and independent,” Lino noted. “He’ll also be able to help more at home, making his parents proud and sharing his experiences with his friends and peers.”

The competition itself was more than just a sports event, it was an opportunity to bring to life the values of inclusion, unity, and mutual respect. In addition to sports, complimentary health screenings that focused on eye health, dentistry, and nutrition, reinforcing a holistic commitment by Special Olympics Asia Pacific to inclusive health and well-being for people with intellectual disabilities.

As Alif and Lino’s friendship blossomed, so did their passion to advocate for others with intellectual disabilities. “We want people to know that athletes like us have strengths too,” Alif shared. Lino added, “I want to share my experience playing with athletes with ID to show others that it’s possible to work together, have fun, and learn. They’re not just good teammates—they’re good people.”

The friendship between the two boys is a reminder that inclusion is not just a goal but an ongoing journey—one that transforms lives, bridges perceived differences, and connects people from across all walks of life.

To know more, follow @humanraceasia and @soasiapacific.

The post Beyond the Game: Alif and Lino’s Journey in Unity  appeared first on Human RACE.

Reflecting on his journey, Andrew shares, “I have an intellectual disability, but I found a home here. I found people I could communicate with. I found people whose company I enjoyed.”  

In the spirit of inclusion and acceptance, he found the confidence to be himself, and reminds us that, “no matter how different you are, it’s okay to be yourself.”  

For him the games are about building connections through shared experiences and a platform to realise and achieve dreams. “I’ve actually achieved one of my dreams. I got married. Ticked that one off the list,” he chuckles, reminiscing about walking hand-in-hand with his wife, Vicki Robbins, a fellow Bocce athlete with Special Olympics Australia, at the World Games opening ceremony in Berlin last year. 

Recalling his transformation before he started being active in Special Olympics, he said “I was very homebound. I wasn’t too confident, it wasn’t until I started my Special Olympics journey. That’s where I got my start. So, yes, I feel very privileged to be with Special Olympics.” 

But Andrew’s journey goes beyond the games. “Through Mari,” he explains, referring to his friend and coach, “I found people I could talk to. I found people who made me feel at home.” 

Amidst the competition, Andrew’s jokes and playful banter bring lighthearted moments of laughter to his teammates and community, reinforcing the importance of joy that can be found in simple things. “It’s like being a smart aleck. It gets people laughing,” he jokes. 

Andrew’s tale shows what Special Olympics is all about – forging genuine relationships, breaking barriers and creating communities where no one is left behind.  

After all, victories aren’t just about winning medals – they’re about the friendships forged, the challenges overcome, and the lives touched. As Andrew Robbins and countless others have discovered, in the spirit of play, we find unity, purpose, and above all, connection. 

To know more, follow @humanraceasia and @soasiapacific.

The post A playful heart finds its home: Australia’s first Special Olympics Bocce gold medalist appeared first on Human RACE.

Her keen eye spotted the potential in both athletes, believing that they could represent Special Olympics Fiji at the 2023 Berlin World Games.

The prospect of competing in an unfamiliar sport in the Games was daunting. Badminton itself was a completely new sport for Teresia and Vuetasau. There was also a lack of professional sporting facilities or major competitions for athletes with ID in Fiji. Yet, Tagici’s dedication and trust in her athletes shone through.

“This is a first-time experience for them to have such a competition,” Tagici explained. “We don’t have competitions such as this. We just play amongst ourselves. And badminton is not a well-known sport either back in Fiji.”

“I train them on how to hold a racquet, how to play with a shuttle, how to serve. Those are little steps, unlike other countries where they are well familiar with badminton rules, here we are learning the rules as we go by,” she continued.

Tagici’s commitment went beyond coaching techniques. To facilitate twice-daily training and transportation challenges, Teresia and Vuetasau lived and trained intensively at her house for the last three months before the games. This shared living fostered a close-knit family bond in the lead-up to the games.

The journey to the games led to many firsts for both athletes. For instance, it was their first time to Berlin.

“It’s an honor to be here and we are very much privileged, happy and excited to participate in the World Games… this is a new experience altogether,” Tagici said. “Playing in such a competition at this higher level with other teams from other countries. It’s been a learning experience for us.”

In the face of challenges, Tagici’s belief in her athletes’ grit and talent paid off. Their improvement was evident. Tagici reminds wider society that ultimately, inclusion needs to be holistic. While the World Games has been good exposure for people with ID, she stresses that inclusive behavior needs to be practiced widely in our daily lives, beyond just sports and competitions. “Some parts of society just leave them at home and don’t include them. Inclusion is for everybody.”

To know more, follow @humanraceasia and @soasiapacific.

The post To serve with love: A Fiji coach’s story appeared first on Human RACE.

Our athlete leaders from Asia Pacific exemplify inclusion, actively championing it within their lives and communities. Their impactful initiatives significantly inform our overarching strategy, aligning with our long-term plans to contribute towards several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs). 

Prioritising health and wellbeing  

Meet Ruby Lawler, an athlete leader from Special Olympics Australia. Ruby is an advocate for SDG #3: health and wellbeing. 

“I started swimming at a young age because it would be good for my joints, and it would make me stronger. For me to be independent, I have to keep moving. Because if I stop, I end up in a wheelchair. And that’s not where I want to be,” she says. 

Special Olympics promotes physical and mental health for people with ID through sports, fitness, and healthcare programs. This can help with reduced mortality rates and improve access to essential healthcare services.

“I think it’s important to have dreams and goals, to keep pushing myself towards things because I still love to swim. And I keep training and challenging myself by joining competitions,” Ruby continued. 

She believes that “Anyone can be an advocate. It’s actually quite easy. It’s about encouraging other people to do their best. Not just other people, yourself as well.” 

Empowered Learning 

During her earlier years, Pauline Paul from Special Olympics Papua New Guinea left school due to bullying but she’s since grown from those experiences to become a staunch champion of SDG #4: quality education for all. Today, as an athlete leader, she actively visits schools to advocate against bullying.  

“I first joined Special Olympics as an athlete, but now I am also a youth leader, and I go to different schools to share my story,” says Pauline Paul from Special Olympics Papua New Guinea. “People need to know we all learn differently, and people need a choice to learn at their own pace. That’s why I’ll keep sharing my stories,” she continued. 

We step up and do more to foster inclusive environments through education, leadership, and inclusive school programs, targeting early childhood development and work towards reducing educational disparities among vulnerable groups.  

Prosperous Livelihoods 

“I work in human resources. The best part of my job is that I’m able to influence the future of others like me,” says Dacki.

Carmelo Sandiego or Dacki from Special Olympics Philippines advocates for SDG #8: access to decent work and economic growth.

“I found a place that made me feel part of something bigger. It was being an athlete with Special Olympics where I decided to use my voice to close the gap between people with intellectual disabilities and those without,” says Dacki. “To all the naysayers out there, you’re missing out by overlooking us. We are more than capable.” 

Equality in Action 

“Words were always stored in my mind, but no one encouraged me to speak up. Everyone talked about me, but not to me,” says Muhammad Haseeb Abbasi, an athlete leader,  from Special Olympics Pakistan. 

As a motivational speaker, Haseeb’s words crosses geographic, social and cultural boundaries, urging for active participation and understanding to build a more inclusive society. Haseeb actively advocates for SDG #10: reduced inequalities, a critical step in progressing inclusion. 

“Give us the confidence not to just survive, but to thrive in life. If you meet any person with intellectual disabilities, help us become part of your world so we can speak up and realise our dreams,” said Haseeb. 

Achieving the UNSDGs demands holistic solutions, requiring input and resources from all sectors of society, regardless of abilities. Everyone can play their part. Our athlete leaders, moulded by extensive training and opportunities, are enthusiastic about making significant societal contributions and extend an invitation for you to join them in their efforts. 

Visit the Youth For Inclusion website to discover resources on how you can champion these causes and support our mission for a more inclusive world. Together, let’s redefine what’s possible!

To know more, follow @humanraceasia and @soasiapacific.

The post Commit To Change: Leaving No One Behind appeared first on Human RACE.

I have seen first-hand the impact that COVID-19 has had on our athletes. Training and competitions came to a grinding halt, and many of our athletes experienced a drop in their sporting skills, fitness levels, as well as physical and mental well-being.

Thankfully, restrictions have since eased, but there’s still much that needs to be done as we rebuild. Putting our athletes first in our outreach programmes and competitions, reconnecting with volunteers who have halted their activities, recruiting new volunteers and coaches, engaging with schools and the wider special needs community, remains work that needs to be continually done.

Whenever I’m asked what the differences are between Special Olympics athletes and others, my answer remains consistent – that they are different only if we insist on seeing them differently. We utilize the same coaching techniques, ensuring all players understand our instructions and receive them in the right spirit and positive mindset, with the understanding that everyone is a valuable team member, with an equal opportunity to play.

If you’re curious about volunteering with communities that have intellectual disabilities, I fully encourage you to give it a try.

My advice would be to start off slow initially. Give yourself the time and space to experience the joys of volunteering. Get to know the athletes, build relationships, and over time start to volunteer on a more regular and committed basis.

Witnessing our athletes’ achievements & accomplishments can be truly amazing and inspiring. This was something I experienced first-hand at the recent Unified Cup in Detroit. An athlete came up to me after a match and told me that it was his very first time completing a full 60-minute football game, and it meant the world to him to have completed this athletic milestone.

As volunteers, we get to nurture, guide and mentor athletes in finding their place in society. Seeing the growth and maturity that my athletes have displayed over the years has indeed been a wonderful experience. If each and every one of us can take one small step and spend a bit of our time volunteering, our collective effort can make a genuine difference towards true inclusion in our society.

To know more, follow @humanraceasia and @soasiapacific.

The post Volunteering with special needs communities in a post-pandemic world – a coach’s perspective appeared first on Human RACE.

Human Race shares a few affirmations that can be referenced when speaking to family members or loved ones with intellectual disabilities to help them feel seen, valued and loved.

1. Be yourself, you have so much to offer: People with intellectual disabilities are unique individuals with their own talents, strengths and skills. By encouraging your loved one to embrace who they are s, you can help them see their worth and the positive impact they can have on their community.

2. You are not less worthy because of your disability: It’s important to remind individuals with intellectual disabilities that their worth is not defined by their disability. Reinforce their strengths and remind them that despite the challenges they face, they are just as worthy and deserving of love, respect and opportunities as anyone else.

3. You are seen, you are loved, and you are valued: In a world that often neglects or dismisses people with intellectual disabilities, it’s essential to remind them that they are not invisible. By expressing love and appreciation for who they are, you help them feel seen, valued and loved, which can have a profound impact on their self-esteem and confidence.

4. I believe in you and your potential: People with intellectual disabilities can do great things with the right support and training. Special Olympics Asia Pacific athletes demonstrate a plethora of talents – be that writing, teaching, athletics, music, or art! Many are survivors, overcoming considerable difficulties, to thrive in their respective vocations. By affirming their worth and supporting them in pursuing their goals and dreams, you can help them achieve great things and reach their full potential.

Affirmations can be a powerful tool for empowering and encouraging individuals with intellectual disabilities. By sincerely acknowledging their strengths, affirming their worth, and believing in their potential, we can help break down barriers and create a more inclusive and equitable world for everyone. Support us in our cause! To know more, follow @humanraceasia and @soasiapacific.

The post 4 Affirmations to empower those with intellectual disabilities appeared first on Human RACE.

The stigma around mental health may prevent people from being vocal about the problems they face. Even today, pre-conceived notions and misperceptions exist. We have to break the bias. We can help ourselves, our friends, families and colleagues grappling with mental health issues to thrive by being allies and creating supportive and non-judgemental environments for each other.  

To be a mental health ally, Human Race has the following tips for you:  

1) Take care of yourself: As much as we want to be there for our loved ones, it’s imperative to know that it becomes increasingly difficult to be a mental health advocate if you’re suffering yourself. Be sure to take care of yourself and manage your mood by focusing on your mental health. Eating a balanced diet, going for walks, swimming, singing – engage yourself in the activities that make you feel at peace and add value to your otherwise busy day. This ensures feeling less overwhelmed by the stresses of daily life.  

2) Listen with empathy: Sometimes, just listening to someone and being a friend can make all the difference. Lending an ear without judgement and with intent, can help uncover clues about their mental health. It’s also of utmost importance to pay attention to nonverbal communication while they speak.  

3) Turn to professionals for help: Talk therapy can treat some mental illnesses like anxiety and depression. If you notice someone exhibiting signs of a mental illness, you can gently suggest seeking professional help to them. 

4) Ask how you can help: While some people look for solutions, some just want to be heard. Asking your loved ones gently what you can do to help ensures a safe and comfortable environment. A simple question like “What can I do to help you?” or “Would you like to talk about it?” goes a long way! 

5) Educate yourself: Reading up, researching online, talking to people, listening with an open mind – these are some ways you can educate yourself about mental health. The more you know, the better you advocate. Learn about the historical prejudice and stigma associated with mental health, and how difficult it makes for someone to open up or seek the help they require and can benefit from.  

A huge part about being a mental health ally is championing the cause and normalising conversations around it. If you’re reading this blog to educate yourself, you’re already taking the first step!  

The post How To Be A Mental Health Ally appeared first on Human RACE.

Human Race shines the spotlight on 3 inspiring individuals who have broken barriers – juggling work, play and more – proving that everyone can have it all when given the right opportunities to succeed. 

Finding value in employment – Dwight Saldito

Dwight Saldito could not walk or speak till the age of 6. Growing up, his younger siblings made fun of him for being different and slow. It was only at the age of 10, after he joined a group of athletes with disabilities training in sports with Special Olympics, that things changed. On the sports field, he gained friendships, strength and confidence.   

Over the years, Dwight has trained in athletics, basketball, football, bowling and table tennis, and even represented the Philippines at several Special Olympics World Games and Regional Games. The confidence he gained through sports empowered him to land a job at the age of 43 with Southstar Drug, a health and personal care retailer.  

Being employed brings empowerment. Dwight is now able to afford his mobile phone and an electric bike, while also finding the confidence to speak up and contribute to society. He is now his family’s breadwinner, something that brings him indescribable pride. “Having a job is one of the best things that has happened in my life, and my greatest hope is that more employers all over the world can open their doors, hearts and minds to workers like me,” he says. 

Advocating for Equality – Tegan Crotty 

Before she sustained a serious right foot injury three years ago, Tegan was swimming up to four times a week. Being a part of Special Olympics helped her realise that she wasn’t alone. While she was the only person in a wheelchair at her school, she was around many people with similar disabilities at Special Olympics. Tegan has spina bifida and hydrocephalus (build-up of fluid on the brain). “Swimming is a great equaliser. In the pool, I’m like everyone else, my disability is nothing,” she says.   

Tegan has qualifications in business administration and computing. For over six years, she has worked at Paper Plus, New Zealand’s largest retailer of books and stationery. She’s also been volunteering at the Red Cross charity shop for over 10 years.  

With Special Olympics, she has trained as a spokesperson and ambassador, advocating for more inclusive communities and equal opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities across New Zealand. “For me, my disability is a part of who I am, not the entire picture. That came about because of Special Olympics.”  

Breaking all barriers – Keshav Malik  

Keshav was diagnosed at age 2 with microcephaly, a condition which affected the growth of his brain. The condition delayed his cognitive and physical progress and left him with permanent developmental disabilities. Although he was slower than others in learning certain tasks, he had a gift when it came to sports.  

He attributes his success to his father, the first person to observe his sporting inclination. His training with Special Olympics helped him develop discipline and focus in daily activities. In 2011, he represented India in badminton at the Special Olympics World Games in Athens and returned with gold and silver medals. 

He became the first special needs athlete to be esteemed with the Bhim Award, the highest sports honour given by the government of Haryana, India. In 2018, he was employed by the state government of Haryana as a coach, a position opened only to those with remarkable sporting talent and performance.  

“Today, I try my best to enable my students to turn their passion into reality. Beyond just being their sports coach, I strive to be their mentor and pillar of support,” says Keshav. “I want them to know that there is no challenge too difficult to overcome.”  

Meaning and Motivation 

Meaningful work empowers people to be a part of something larger than themselves. Every Special Olympics athlete who is employed has reported increased self-esteem due to a daily purpose and contribution to society. They are motivated by the tasks set before them, inspired to do their best possible work.  

You can be a part of this movement, to be a better ally to people with intellectual disabilities at the workplace. Find out more by following @humanraceasia and @soasiapacific!

The post Breaking Barriers At The Workplace appeared first on Human RACE.