Great leaders leave lasting legacies—not only through direct actions, but through the multiplier effects they generate, inspiring change far beyond their immediate community.
Ronak Lakhani, Chairperson of Special Olympics Pakistan (SOP), exemplifies such transformative leadership. Her journey began in 1991 as a volunteer, when SOP supported just 75 athletes. Since then, she has spearheaded its remarkable expansion into a nationwide movement with over 35,000 athletes and 5,000+ families today. Through unwavering dedication, Ronak has not only uplifted the lives of people with intellectual disabilities (PWID), but also redefined Pakistan’s broader approach to inclusion.
The Power of “We Are All One”
Early in her journey, Ronak realized that lasting change requires a radically different approach to leadership. Instead of relying on traditional top-down hierarchies, she cultivated a culture of shared ownership where every voice matters, regardless of age, role, or intellectual ability.
This philosophy drives her to share information generously with her team, often beyond what their roles require. She firmly believes that transparency and understanding empower people to contribute more meaningfully. “We are all one,” she consistently reminds her team–a mantra that reflects her belief that artificial barriers between people limit potential, while true inclusion unlocks exponential growth.
The results speak volume. Under her leadership, SOP has nurtured a community of long-term volunteers, including doctors and professionals who began their journey as teenagers and continue to serve well into adulthood. By treating everyone as a valuable contributor from the start, she built a robust pipeline of committed leaders who carry forward her multiplier mindset.
No Task Too Small
From leading sports teams, orchestrating events to driving fundraising initiatives,
Ronak’s leadership is defined by a simple yet powerful principle: do whatever it takes to serve the mission. Throughout her 35-year tenure, she has worn multiple hats–as a servant leader, strategist, and hands-on organizer–earning trust across every level of SOP.
Her willingness to tackle challenges—from grassroots logistics to high-level strategy—has built a foundation of credibility that fuels SOP’s continued success. This trust has translated into tangible support:
- Government bodies have recognized her authentic commitment through consistent delivery. The Sindh government now sponsors training camps, travel, and uniforms for international competitions.
- Corporate partners like Bank Alfalah have invested PKR 9 million (USD31,690) in athlete training programs.
- Educational institutions such as Beaconhouse School System have formalized partnerships through MOUs.
Her reputation for integrity and impact has earned her appointments to prestigious bodies such as the Pakistan Sports Board (as the only female among 9 members), the Pakistan Olympic Association, and the Pakistan Women’s Swimming Federation–each recognizing her as a leading voice for inclusion and gender equity in sports.
A Legacy of Lasting Change
Ronak’s greatest triumph is not just the programs she built, but the societal shift she sparked in how Pakistan views people with intellectual disabilities. Her vision of sports as a catalyst for change has opened doors far beyond the playing field, fostering confidence and bringing communities together in ways unimagined previously.
Through initiatives like employment training programs and empowering PWID to live independently—especially vital for PWID who outlive their parents—Ronak has created a sustainable ecosystem where inclusion becomes self-reinforcing.
The Emmy-nominated documentary “As Far As They Can Run” captures this transformation beautifully, showing how rural Pakistani communities have embraced young people with intellectual disabilities, reshaping perceptions and possibilities.
Today, Ronak’s multiplier effect continues to ripple outward, laying groundwork for a future where “we are all one” is not just a philosophy, but a lived reality.
