2 weeks Ago By Qatar Tribune
Qatar tribune Tribune News Network Doha Qatar Foundation’s (QF) Ability Friendly Program held its first Aquathlon competition for persons with disabilities, the first event of its kind in Qatar, combining swimming and running in a sporting event held at the Recreation Center of Awsaj Academy in Education City. The competition provided an opportunity for nearly 76 participants with disabilities to showcase their swimming and running skills. The event strengthened family support and reinforced the principles of inclusion and community integration.
It reflected QF’s vision of empowering individuals of all abilities and enhancing their active participation in society. Abdullah Shaheen Al-Kaabi, head of Sports Affairs at Qatar Foundation’s (QF) Pre-University Education (PUE), emphasized that sports are among the most important tools for supporting the mental and behavioural well-being of persons with disabilities. He noted that sports provide a safe space for self-expression, build self-confidence, and foster a strong sense of belonging.
“Through the Ability Friendly Program, QF places great importance on providing an inclusive and diverse sports environment that caters to all abilities. Qatar Foundation has ensured that its sports facilities are fully accessible, with priority access given to persons with disabilities, reflecting its genuine commitment to the principle of inclusivity.” Al-Kaabi explained that the tournaments and sports events organized by QF are not merely for entertainment but serve as a real source of motivation for students to continue training and developing their skills.
“Sports by nature require effort and discipline. Having a clear goal—such as participating in a competition or achieving a sporting milestone, gives that effort greater meaning and significantly boosts the motivation of persons with disabilities.” He also noted that QF’s current programs go beyond physical activity, aiming to gradually prepare persons with disabilities to take part in larger sports competitions, whether within the program itself or through strategic partnerships with sports federations, paving the way for them to reach higher levels of competition in the future.
Al-Kaabi concluded with a message to parents, encouraging them to support and motivate their children to join such programs: “The continued engagement of persons with disabilities in sports requires a supportive and encouraging family environment. Their participation in competitions serves as a starting point for building long-term athletic ambition.” Sila Yildirim, mother of Mousa Yildirim, one of the children with autism who participated in the competition, shared her thoughts: “Having sports events dedicated to our children with disabilities has a profound impact on their integration into society and helps build their self-confidence.
Each child with a disability has unique needs and abilities. When we provide them with the space to participate, we’re not just offering an activity we’re giving them a true sense of belonging and active inclusion.” “The efforts made by QF truly make a difference, not only in our children’s lives but also in our own emotional well-being as parents.
These events send a clear message that our children are welcomed, that they are not on the margins of society, but an essential part of it, seen, understood, and supported.” Yildirim, who comes from a different cultural background, expressed how the experience in Qatar shifted her perspective: “I fully understand how difficult it can be for a child with a disability to find their place in society. But what I found in Qatar, through the support and appreciation for diverse abilities, completely changed my perspective and gave me a genuine sense of hope.
” “I’m grateful to all the entities contributing to this positive change and turning acceptance and inclusion into a tangible reality. Organizing competitions and events dedicated to our children is both inspiring and impactful. It’s a meaningful step toward a more inclusive and equitable future.
” Copy 23/04/2025 10.
