The idea for the cafe came from Sharon Lee’s concern for her daughter, Su Anne, a Special Olympics Malaysia athlete, who is globally delayed and has an attention deficit disorder. Global developmental delay (GDD) is a condition that occurs when a child has significant delays in multiple areas of development. Sharon explains further, “I wanted to create a space for her where she has a job and is independent.” Her idea resonated with other mothers of PWIDs, some of whom were Special Olympics Malaysia athletes as well, who wanted to provide them with the opportunity to thrive. Sharon adds, “We’re not looking at making lots of money. It’s more for them to be able to do some work, instead of sitting at home.”

For many people with disabilities, finding employment can seem arduous due to societal bias, discrimination and limited opportunities. Tender Hearts offers a rare alternative- a space where young people with intellectual disabilities can develop essential work skills and social confidence in a supportive, inclusive environment. “It gives our kids the opportunity to be in the working world, to go out, meet with people, and interact,” says Siti Mariam, another mother involved with the cafe.

Despite the lack of experience in running a food business, the mothers of Tender Hearts pushed forward. “We were not trained,” says Siti. “Sharon is good at cooking, but we’ve never run a cafe.” Yet, every step forward, from baking cookies to running bazaars, was an accomplishment. This drive to create something sustainable and productive for their children has turned into a thriving space where youth gain skills and take pride in their work—no matter how small the tasks are, like wiping tables or serving customers. 

Explaining the connection with Special Olympics Malaysia, Sharon shared how the former national director of Special Olympics Malaysia had volunteered at the café to support the PWIDs. The then director also recognised the potential in Su Anne, mentored her, and provided her with a public speaking opportunity to share her story at a Special Olympics Malaysia public event. Sharon recalled, “I was nervous at first, but when the opportunity was offered, I was so happy that Sue Anne wanted to do it.”

One such young person is Azri, who has been working at Tender Hearts for several years. He’s seen significant growth in his independence. “I like to serve. I like to wash. I can teach everyone,” Azri says proudly. Sharon adds, “He’s independent now. He knows when to clock in, where to put his bags, and what he needs to do next.”

For many of the youth at Tender Hearts, their jobs go beyond just getting tasks done—it’s about gaining responsibility, pride, and a sense of belonging. This sense of community is central to Tender Hearts. Siti shares, “My son always refers to his friends here as his brothers and sisters. It’s not just about work. It’s about caring for each other.” The cafe is a place where young people are not only valued for their work but for who they are as people.

Looking back on the journey, Sharon sees both progress and challenges. “We’ve survived over seven years. It’s not easy, but they’re learning to be independent and care for one another,” she says. The collaboration with Special Olympics has also been key in complementing these efforts in helping these young people lead independent and fulfilling lives.

The ultimate goal for Tender Hearts is to become a model of inclusion, where young people with intellectual disabilities can lead fully independent lives. “We hope one day this cafe will be run entirely by them,” says Siti. “They’ll know how to handle the accounting, the budgeting, the marketing… they’ll run it themselves.”

For now, Azri’s simple words capture the spirit of Tender Hearts: “I like working here. I want to stay here. It’s good here. I’m happy.” Happiness, after all, comes from having a sense of purpose—and for the youth at Tender Hearts, that purpose is exactly what they’ve found in this safe, inclusive space. 

To know more, follow @humanraceasia and @soasiapacific.

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Bocce, a game of precision and strategy, is more than just a sport for Kar Soon, who is now 42 years old. Bocce is a passion that was first sparked off in school where he was recruited by a teacher to take part in Special Olympics Singapore’s activities. Since then, his life has been transformed.

Competitions like the World Games are now a welcome opportunity for him to challenge himself. As he puts it. “I feel happy, but when there’s a very strong opponent, I really try my best to win,” he says. Yet, the pressure does not deter him. “I tell myself not to be scared, and instead relax and enjoy the game,” he shares.

Overcoming challenges has been a part of Kar Soon’s journey. Earlier in life he had to undergo multiple surgeries on his hand and face. These operations seemingly threatened to derail his sporting dreams, especially since his grip strength was affected. Nevertheless, his fighting spirit prevailed and Kar Soon took part in multiple local competitions before competing internationally at the World Games.

For Kar Soon, inclusion is ultimately about being understanding and showing empathy. “More tolerance, more kindness, more patience,” he suggests are essential in building a more inclusive society.

Next up, Kar Soon wants to travel the world and continue to play bocce. More recently, he’s looking to further hone his leadership skills and is part of the new batch of Athlete Leaders for Special Olympics Singapore in 2024. Kar Soon’s story is one of discipline, tenacity and determination. As he puts it, “I am a dream chaser.” And indeed, he is pursuing those dreams, one roll of the bocce ball at a time.

To know more, follow @humanraceasia and @soasiapacific.

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Competing against the best players in the world on one of the most iconic tennis courts was a major highlight for a group of Special Olympics tennis players selected to compete at the Players with Intellectual Impairments (PWII) Championship at the recent Australian Open.

Tennis-ace Carla Lenarduzzi was one of five Special Olympics tennis players in action at the second edition of the PWII. The event, for the world’s best players with an intellectual disability, was played at Melbourne Park as part of the Australian Open.

Carla, who has been training and competing with Special Olympics Australia for the past 15 years, had a busy tournament, competing in both the women’s singles and women’s doubles competition with compatriot Kelly Wren.

And while Carla didn’t claim a winner’s medal on this occasion, she did take home a lot of learnings from the major tournament experience.

Carla, no stranger to winning accolades for her tennis talents having been named Most Outstanding Athlete with a Disability by Tennis Victoria (Australia) in 2018, said she is still learning and determined to improve parts of her game.

‘Playing here (at the PWII tournament) taught me not to be frightened, to go for every shot, expect the ball to come back and be ready. Don’t give up and be fit for lots of matches,’ she said.

Described by her coaches as a mentor to younger players, Carla says she wants to continue to improve her tennis game and will use the experience at the PWII tournament to work even harder.

‘It was a good experience playing against some of the best players in the world and it makes me want to work hard to be like them. I’ve got something to strive for and, when it comes to tennis, I never stop learning.’

Also included in the line-up of Special Olympics players taking part in the tournament was 23-year-old Lily Mills from Special Olympics Great Britain who was a runner-up in the women’s doubles competition. While Sophia Schmidt from Special Olympics Germany enjoyed victory in the same double’s competition along with her partner, Anna McBride, capping off a fantastic few months for the German during which she won silver in the singles competition at the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin.

Special Olympics Australia, meanwhile, was proudly represented by three players at the tournament, including Kelly Wren, Mitchell James and Carla.

And once again, Kelly Wren put in a fantastic display and enjoyed a great run in the women’s singles competition. Having triumphed in the singles competition at the PWII last year, on this occasion Kelly had to settle for runner-up’s. But no doubt fitness fanatic Kelly, who also coaches with Special Olympics Australia, will aim to be back on the famed courts at Melbourne Park next year.

Special Olympics Australia was also out in force at Tennis Australia’s All Abilities Day, which took place during the Australian Open and showcased different forms of inclusive tennis. About 100 Special Olympics Australia members were provided free tickets to attend the Australian Open courtesy of Tennis Australia, a sporting partner of Special Olympics Australia. 

To know more, follow @humanraceasia and @soasiapacific.

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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.

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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!

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Meet these exceptional women who have been advocating for change, to create a more accepting and inclusive world for all.   

Aliyah Hidayah – Taking what I need to be the woman I want to be 

Aliyah wears many hats: enterprising student, active volunteer, and youth advocate.  

Currently completing her diploma in common engineering, Aliyah has been actively engaged with Special Olympics Singapore since 2015 when she was introduced to the Badminton Outreach Program and Young Athletes Program. 

When she realised the low level of societal awareness of the struggles faced by people with intellectual disabilities, Aliyah was determined to do her part to help end discrimination towards people with intellectual disabilities. 

Aliyah has not always been this confident and outspoken, in fact, she never thought she could be a leader. “The athletes of Special Olympics have helped me find my voice, my confidence, and my leadership abilities. The fortitude and joy I’ve experienced have been indescribable. I have become a better player, better leader, better person, and I pledge to do all I can to end injustice, and to do my part to provide more opportunities for people with disabilities to shine in all aspects of their lives.” 

 Navjot & Rekha – Making a difference 

Meet Navjot and Rekha, special educators in India who volunteer with the Special Olympics Young Athletes program – an early intervention sport and play program for children with and without intellectual disabilities. 

Over the past 6 years, they have travelled across Punjab, going door to door to reach out to countless parents to stress the importance of keeping children engaged in sport and play. 

Their inspiring stories of watching children with intellectual disabilities not just progress, but blossom with confidence sends a clear message, “Do not hide your special children. Be proud of them, not ashamed.”  

Although they have had people turn them away, or households asking them for money in exchange for their children attending their program, they refuse to give up. “People ask us, why we choose to do what we do. Our answer is simple: Every child deserves a chance and a head start in life, no matter their ability.” 

Jasmine Sharif – Everyone deserves dignity and respect 

Jasmine Sharif is an athlete with Sotos Syndrome. She has been advocating for the rights of people with intellectual disabilities in her home country of Pakistan, as well as globally.  

Her journey with Special Olympics began as a swimmer, competing at the Special Olympics World Games held in China and the Regional Asia Pacific Games in Australia. Most recently, she competed in the 2019 World Games held in Abu Dhabi, where she won a bronze medal for swimming. 

Leading by example, she now guides other athletes as an assistant coach in Special Olympics Pakistan. She travels the world, speaking about the importance of inclusion. She strives to constantly improve herself by learning new skills beyond sports, earning herself a qualification in graphic design.  

She says, “Having a disability is like having superpowers. Enjoy your superpowers! If people don’t understand and make fun of you, just smile and walk away.” 

Here’s to strong women, may we be them, raise them and know them. Together, there are no limits to what we can accomplish. Human Race applauds these extraordinary women who have imagined a brighter and kinder future for all of us! 

To learn more about the journeys of these impressive women and what they stand for, follow our socials: @humanraceasia & @soasiapacific. 

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I am an apprentice aluminium joiner, race car driver, basketball coach, and former athletes’ representative on New Zealand’s Special Olympics Board. I also have a full-time job at Design Windows Nelson and I’m a proud father of two.

In the eyes of many, I’m living the dream. What they don’t see is that juggling all my interests and responsibilities while living with an intellectual disability can mean that sometimes, I overstretch myself. But I believe in giving my best in all that I do.

My daughters, Lilly-Rose and Violet, are the lights of my life! Simple joys like making breakfast for them and dropping them off at school are the highlights of my day. Sometimes, spending quality time with my family gets difficult, but we always find a way. To me, family is the most important thing in this world.

I often struggle with reading and writing, since my disability mostly affects my speech. Sometimes, I have to say one sentence five times for people to understand. I used to speak really fast. But I’ve learnt to slow down and speak clearly now.  

Growing up, I got picked on and bullied in school. But that didn’t stop me from going after my passion. I always showed a flair for sport. At primary school, I played basketball, cricket, and took part in track and field. Only after I left school was I introduced to Special Olympics. Being a shy kid throughout school, I was surprised at my own capabilities and discovered a side to me that even I didn’t know. I was a leader, a public speaker, and an advocate!

Ever since High School, I dreamt of representing my country. This became reality when I was selected to attend the 2007 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Shanghai. I returned with a gold medal and decided to give back to the field of basketball, a sport that got me where I am today. Basketball taught me the biggest lesson in life, which I now often tell my students. That is – if you miss a shot, keep going; if you fall, just get back up. Because if you don’t try, you don’t succeed. So never stop trying! 

Through it all, my wife Nyssa has been my pillar of support. She’s always right there, looking out for me. We have been married for 13 years. Our daughters, now aged 9 and 2, are the most important thing in both of our lives.

“What I love about Graeme is how he makes me smile with his quirky comments. He might have a disability, but it just doesn’t matter, as long as you are in love and you know there’s so much more to a person than their disability!” – Nyssa Porter, Graeme’s wife.

I’m grateful for this little world I’ve been blessed with. Life may not always be perfect, but I’m learning to be a better dad, a better human, and better athlete every single day. I’ve found that in life if you give respect to others, you get respect back. My wish is simple – just to be happy and pretty much enjoy what I do!

To be an ally and learn the stories of people with intellectual disabilities like Graeme, follow @humanraceasia and @soasiapacific.

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Growing up with intellectual disability

When I was 2, I was diagnosed with microcephaly, a condition which affected the growth of my brain. My head was smaller in size compared to other babies. The condition delayed my cognitive and physical progress and left me with permanent developmental disabilities.  

Growing up, I struggled to clock the milestones most other kids did. I could barely speak and struggled to communicate my thoughts. It was tough getting me a place in a mainstream school. My parents enrolled me in a special school for children with intellectual disabilities. Although I was slower than others in learning certain tasks, I had a gift when it came to sports. My dad noticed my sporting abilities as he watched me play with my cousins every day. It sparked an idea.

The opportunity came when my dad learnt about Special Olympics in India at a local event one day. I was 9. I joined the badminton program, and I’ve not looked back since. That one decision defined my entire life and has made me who I am today.  

“Keshav’s learning comes 100% from sports. I feel so proud of him, he’s truly special. From everything that contributed to his personality and standing in society, Special Olympics reigns the highest. A platform for the most marginalized population! The impact of sport can be observed in everything Keshav does.”

 – Mr. Kultar Malik, Keshav’s father.

From following others’ footsteps to carving my own path, from repeating people’s sentences to finding my own voice, I have come a long way.

A passion that took him places

In 2011, I represented India in badminton at the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Athens and returned with gold and silver medals. It was an amazing experience and honor to be on the world stage. My achievements were recognized nationally. I became  the first athlete with special needs to receive the Bhim Award, the highest sports honor given by the government of Haryana, India for “outstanding performance in national and international competitions.” It paved the way for bigger things. In 2018, I was among the first persons with disabilities to be employed by the Haryana State Government as a sports coach, a position reserved for persons with exceptional sporting talent and performance.

Sports has completely changed my life. It instilled in me discipline and focus, which I now apply to my daily living. It taught me to manage my time effectively and gave me the confidence to find my voice and vision. 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. I pass on my learnings and experiences and talk to them about everything, from discipline and safety to respect for elders. I want them to know that there is no challenge too difficult to overcome. Shut out the naysayers and be fearless in pursuing your dreams!

Your support empowers thousands of athletes with intellectual disabilities like Keshav to make their dreams a reality, and bring pride and hope to their communities. Take action here and join us in creating a truly inclusive world for all!

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Growing up with Intellectual Disability 

At the tender age of 7, when most children are learning to ride a bike or jump rope, Florence was diagnosed with intellectual disability. This, for her, meant needing more time to learn and getting used to the momentum of new activities. A saying goes ‘fall down seven times, stand up eight’, and that’s exactly what Florence did. Through her passion and never-say-die attitude, she graduated from the ASPN Delta Senior School with a Work Skills Qualification (WSQ) certification in retail operations. A Valedictorian of her batch, an esteemed member of The Purple Symphony (a local all-inclusive orchestra), an Athlete Leader with Special Olympics, this young girl can do it all (and then some!) 

Getting a step closer to her dream 

Studying in APSN Delta brought Florence a step closer to her dream of working in retail. She was first introduced to UNIQLO Singapore through their retail training space in her school. During this training, she felt intrigued by the clothing displays and retail culture and realized that this might just be her calling. She joined the Work Experience Program and let her passion lead the way.  Her positive attitude scored her the gig. “I was over the moon when my trainer came and announced that I’d been selected for the program,” she says. 

The journey with UNIQLO 

On her first day, Florence was up before sunrise.  “I recall being filled with energy the night before as I was putting together my work attire for the day,” she says. Stepping into a new job with new colleagues was intimidating, but Florence was quick to adapt with the support and help of her trainers and work buddies. She recalls, “Throughout the training, I was taught different skills that a retail staff requires, from the preparation of stocks to attending to customers’ queries.” As she gained more confidence and independence in the training, she soon unlocked another milestone. She was offered a permanent position in the store, with the responsibility of managing the stockroom and running the sales floor. 

Challenges overcame  

The job came with its challenges. Florence struggled to attend to inquiries from Mandarin-speaking customers. When she was overwhelmed, she would approach her work buddies for help.  They would patiently help her break down the tasks into simplified steps. She also found her own way to de-stress.  “At home, writing about my daily experiences in my diary and playing the guzheng calm me down”, she says.  On working in an inclusive environment, she shares that her team “treats me just like any other colleague”, allowing her to carry out her daily tasks without being reminded of her disability. She adds, “Knowing I have the support of my colleagues whenever I face difficulties at work keeps me motivated and really boosts my confidence.” 

Do you know someone who is neurodiverse at your workplace? How have you helped make your workplace a more inclusive one? With your support, kindness, and acceptance, we can all do our part to give everyone the opportunities they deserve to fulfill their dreams and succeed in life!  

Credit: Article adapted from Zula.sg  

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