By Mónica Dávila
Advisor for Special Projects and Development, Venezuelan Paralympic Committee; Member, SIGA LATIN AMERICA Permanent Committee on Gender, Race, Inclusion & Diversity (GRID)
During the celebration of the XVII Paralympic Games in Paris, para-athletes evoke a wide range of emotions in spectators, challenging, in a matter of seconds, the stereotypical beliefs many people hold about the capabilities of those living with disabilities, who, according to data from the World Health Organization and the World Bank, represent 15% of the global population.
Thanks to extensive media coverage and the social media’s impact, Parisians and audiences worldwide have witnessed not only inspiring athletic feats but also extraordinary life stories. This event is not just a sporting competition; it serves as a platform that highlights the strength and determination of these athletes, who become ambassadors of inclusion and diversity.
Furthermore, Sport, as we have seen, stands as a transformative tool that provides people with disabilities the opportunity to develop new skills. Through athletic practice, they learn to face stressful situations, make quick decisions, and manage challenges that require assertive and strategic responses. Furthermore, it teaches them to relate to their environment, move with confidence, and interact with others, fostering a sense of community and belonging. The impact of sport on the lives of people with disabilities also reinforces their mental health, helping them build a positive identity while strengthening their self-esteem.
In Venezuela, the I´Mclusion Project, committed to the full integration of people with disabilities into Venezuelan society, is bolstered by its partnership with the Venezuelan Paralympic Committee (COPAVEN). This collaboration not only provides vital institutional support but also ensures the implementation of internationally recognized practices and standards in the field of Paralympic sports, aiming to empower athletes by providing them with tools that enhance their leadership and turn them into positive role models in their communities.
This public-private partnership is crucial.
It is important to highlight that the synergy between the public and private sectors is crucial to ensuring the sustainability of the program and amplifying its impact. This collaborative approach not only optimizes resources and knowledge but also stimulates the development of corporate social responsibility programs, increasing visibility and awareness of disability issues in the community.
From a methodological perspective, the I´Mclusion Project is based on three main axes of action:
- Know: This initiative aims to raise public awareness about the rights of people with disabilities through the I´Mclusion Series, a sensitization campaign featuring Olympic para-athletes. These audiovisual pieces provide an intimate look into their lives, revealing how sport has transformed their existence, challenging stereotypes and serving as inspiration.
- Learn: Strengthens athletes’ knowledge through support programs that allow them to access training spaces on key topics such as human rights, health, well-being, and life skills. This equips them with tools for personal and professional development, empowering them as agents of change.
- I´Mcluye: Fosters a network of allies among public and private institutions, businesses, and personalities to consolidate the ecosystem of Venezuelan Paralympic sports. This strategic collaboration amplifies the project’s impact, spreading a message of inclusion, respect, and celebration of diversity.
In essence, both the Paris Paralympic Games and the I´Mclusion Project not only celebrate athletic talent but also serve as a reminder that integration is both possible and necessary. In this sense, the event becomes a symbol of hope and a call to action to continue working towards a more inclusive world, where all individuals, regardless of their abilities, have the opportunity to shine.
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