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What is the Athlete Leaders Program?
The Athlete Leaders Program is one of the flagship programs of Special Olympics Saudi Arabia, designed to empower athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities by developing their leadership skills and enabling their active participation across various aspects of Special Olympics activities and beyond.
The program enables athletes to transition from participation in sports to influential leadership roles by training and preparing them to contribute to decision-making, represent fellow athletes, and participate in committees, events, and various initiatives.
The program is also built on a collaborative leadership model and is managed through the Athlete Leaders Council, which includes Special Olympics athletes alongside mentors, reinforcing athletes’ role in leading the program and shaping its direction.
Program Objectives
The Athlete Leaders Program aims to:
Develop athletes’ leadership and communication skills.
Empower athletes to express their views and represent their community.
Enhance athletes’ participation in decision-making within the Special Olympics movement.
Develop inspiring athlete leadership role models.
Support the concept of inclusion by engaging athletes in meaningful leadership roles.
Program Impact
The Athlete Leaders Program empowers athletes to discover and develop their abilities while strengthening their self-confidence, positively impacting their participation both within and beyond sports. It also contributes to building a more inclusive society that values the potential of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Register Your Interest in Establishing an Athlete Leaders Council at Your Organization