Global Sports Mentorship Program 2024 kicks off in Houston, Texas

PESHAWAR
The Global Sports Mentorship Program 2024 kicked off with an impactful first week in Houston, Texas, where 16 sports leaders from 12 countries converged under the guidance of the UT Center of Sports, Peace, and Society. Dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities through sports, the program focused on intensive training, strategic planning, and immersive experiences.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in dynamic workshops on storytelling and began crafting actionable plans tailored to their communities.
The program’s emphasis is on practicality and innovation to set the stage for meaningful contributions to the sports empowerment landscape.
The week was not only about classroom learning but also hands-on experiences. Visits to renowned sports venues such as Minute Maid Park for an Astros Major League Baseball game and the world’s first Softball Accessible Field provided invaluable insights into accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Participants also had the opportunity to immerse themselves in a range of adaptive sports, including Wheelchair Rugby, Wheelchair Basketball, Wheelchair Softball, outdoor table tennis and Para Cycling.
These experiences were not just about sport but about understanding and implementing inclusive practices and para sport regulations. Participants visited the TIRR Memorial Hermann hospital, a renowned institution for treating various disabilities.
They met Mr. Lex Frieden, a distinguished Disability Activist, and learned firsthand about his pivotal role in the American with Disabilities Act.
The program’s next phase will take participants to Chicago, where they will work closely with mentors at the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab to further refine their action plans.
The journey will culminate in Washington DC, where they will present their meticulously crafted plans to a prestigious jury comprising representatives from the University of Tennessee, the US State Department, and esteemed mentors from diverse organizations.
He also introduced different mentors to Pakistan’s diverse culture and distributed Chitrali hats to them.
The Global Sports Mentorship Program 2024 is not just a program; it’s a catalyst for change, fostering a global network of leaders committed to driving inclusivity and empowerment through sports.