2016 Global Sports Mentoring Program: Sport for Community Book

U.S. Department of State

2016 GLOBAL SPORTS MENTORING PROGRAM In cooperation with The University of Tennessee Center for Sport, Peace, & Society

program

book AN INITIATIVE OF THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION 3 Program Introduction 4

Program Partners

5

Social Media

6

Program Schedule Overview

MEET THE CLASS OF 2016

2

8

2016 Emerging Leaders

9

2016 Mentors

10

Meet the Matches

11

Matches on the Map

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Oleksandra Nasadiuk (Ukraine) + Brielle Carter (Ability 360 Sports & Fitness Center)

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Priyantha Peiris (Sri Lanka) + Brielle Carter (Ability 360 Sports & Fitness Center)

27

Julio Rueda (Guatemala) + Larry Labiak (Chicago Parks District)

35

Anderson Gama (Brazil) + Ian Cropp (Glideslope)

43

Bayron Lopez (Eucador) + Mark Lucas (U.S. Association of Blind Athletes)

51

Adeline Dumapong (Philippines) + Jeff Underwood & Beth Curry (Lakeshore Foundation)

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Olesya Vladykina (Russia) + Jeff Underwood & Beth Curry (Lakeshore Foundation)

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JP Maunes (Philippines) + Derek Daniels (Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago)

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Valeria Filiaeva (Belarus) + Mary Patstone & Dr. Cheri Blauwet (Spaulding Rehabilitation Institute)

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Deepak K.C. (Nepal) + Mary Patstone & Dr. Cheri Blauwet (Spaulding Rehabilitation Institute)

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Yerlan Suleimenov (Kasakhstan) + John Register (USOC)

95

Njomza Emini (Kosovo) + John Register (USOC)

101

Agwang Angella Christine (Uganda) + Dr. Margaret Stran (University of Alabama) & Mike Mushett (Turnstone)

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Alemayehu Teferi & Eyasu Hailu (Ethiopia) + Douglas Garner (University of Texas-Arlington)

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program introduction The Sport for Community (S4C) Global Sports

mentorship experience designed to complement the

Mentoring Program (GSMP) builds on the U.S.

Empower Women through Sports model. Through

Department of State’s commitment to use sports

this mentorship, men and women are chosen based

diplomacy as a tool for empowerment, cultural

on thematic priorities, with the 2014 class focused on

exchange, and community impact worldwide. The

the Olympic legacy and the 2016 class engaged in

2016 S4C reflects the United States’ commitment to

disability sport.

promote human rights and remove barriers to create a world in which disabled people enjoy dignity and full inclusion.

The 2016 Sport for Community (S4C), developed by the Department of State and the University of Tennessee’s Center for Sport, Peace & Society, uses

GSMP develops lasting relationships through an

immersive mentorship and cultural exchange to

international network of change-makers who strive

empower leaders in community development

to make a positive difference in their home countries.

through sport. Through S4C, U.S. community sport

The GSMP consists of two pillars: Empower Women

leaders and their organizations provide emerging

through Sports and Sport for Community.

leaders from around the world with the opportunity

Since 2012, 66 female sports leaders have graduated from the program and returned home to launch NGOs, affect public policy and legislation, and transform communities by providing access and opportunity to girls where none previously existed. The GSMP has been so successful that it was named one of top public diplomacy efforts in the world in 2013.

to cultivate sports management, marketing, and business skills in a U.S. sport-related environment.

The organizations participating in the 2016 edition of S4C are at the forefront of the disability sport movement. Evidence shows that people with disabilities who participate in sports experience social inclusion, economic empowerment, greater employment opportunities, and independence.

However, there remains a lack of education, training,

In response to the GSMP’s success, the Department

and adequate facilities in many countries, which has

of State restructured their existing program to

kept people with disabilities marginalized. With the

include a second one-month mentorship experience

growth in prominence of the Paralympic Games and

to empower a different sector of the population.

the increasing development of adaptive sports, the

In 2014, the Department of State teamed with

time is right to empower leaders with a passion and

Partners of the Americas to launch the inaugural

desire to see everyone have an opportunity to step

Sport for Community mentoring program, a co-ed

on the court.

@SportsEmpower

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#Sport4All |

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PROGRAM PARTNERS THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE BUREAU OF EDUCATIONAL AND CULTURAL AFFAIRS The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs promotes mutual understanding between Americans and people from around the world through a wide range of academic, cultural, private sector, professional and sports exchange programs. These international exchanges engage youth, students, educators, artists, athletes and emerging leaders from the United States and nearly 170 countries. Alumni of these exchanges comprise over one million people around the world, including more than 50 Nobel Laureates and more than 350 current or former heads of state and government.

THE UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE CENTER FOR SPORT, PEACE, & SOCIETY The Center for Sport, Peace, & Society, housed in the University of Tennessee’s College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences, is composed of faculty, staff, and students who believe that sport can be used to support individual and community development. The Center aims to promote cultural understanding between UT students and diverse communities through sport-based service. The Center works in collaboration with community leaders to develop context-specific programming and is particularly interested in global solidarity and universal inclusion of underserved populations (e.g. women and girls, refugees/internally displaced, persons with disabilities). It is the hope of the Center that, through sport, individuals will become empowered change agents promoting peace and inclusivity in global and local communities.

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social media OFFICIAL GSMP HASHTAG:

SP RT 4

COMMUNIT Y

#SPORT4ALL

GLOBAL SPORTS MENTORING PROGRAM http://www.globalsportsmentoring.org facebook.com/globalsportsmentoringprogram @sportsempower flickr.com/globalsportsmentoringprogram U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE/SPORTSUNITED http://eca.state.gov/programs-initiatives/sports-diplomacy/ facebook.com/pages/SportsUnited-US-Department-of-State @SportsDiplomacy, @StateDept, @ConnectStateGov, & @ECAatState youtube.com/ExchangesVideo flickr.com/ExchangesPhotos UT CENTER FOR SPORT, PEACE, & SOCIETY http://sportandpeace.utk.edu facebook.com/TheCenterForSportPeaceSociety @sportandpeaceUT youtube.com/sportandpeaceutk http://soundcloud.com/sport-and-peace-ut

@SportsEmpower

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#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

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PROGRAM schedule OVERVIEW

MAY MAY 14

JUNE

Emerging Leaders arrive

JUNE 11

in Washington, D.C. for

Washington, D.C.

orientation

MAY 15-21

JUNE 12

Orientation and Action Plan preparation

MAY 22

JUNE 13-14

Emerging Leaders arrive in

Emerging Leaders begin on-

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Emerging Leaders present Action Plans

JUNE 16

site mentorship

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Emerging Leaders debrief mentorship experience

mentor host city

MAY 23

Emerging Leaders return to

Emerging Leaders return home to change the world!

MEET THE GSMP: SPORT FOR COMMUNITY

CLASS OF 2016

@SportsEmpower

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#Sport4All |

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2016 EMERGING LEADERS

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Adeline Dumapong PhILIPPINES

Alemayehu Teferi ETHIOPIA

Anderson Gama BRAZIL

Bayron Lopez ECUADOR

Agwang Angella Christine UGANDA

Deepak K.C. NEPAL

Eyasu Hailu Tamene ETHIOPIA

JP Maunes PhILIPPINES

Julio Rueda GUATEMALA

Njomza Emini Kosovo

Oleksandra Nasadiuk ukraine

Olesya Vladykina russia

Priyantha Peiris SRI LANKA

Valeria Filiaeva Belarus

Yerlan Suleimenov KAZAKHSTAN

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

2016 MENTORS

Brielle Carter ability 360 SPORTS & FITNESS CENTER

Larry Labiak chicago parks district

Ian Cropp glideslope

Jeff Underwood Lakeshore foundation

Beth Curry Lakeshore foundation

Derek Daniels rehabilitation institute of chicago

Mary Patstone Spaulding rehabilitation network

Dr. Cheri Blauwet Spaulding rehabilitation network

Mike Mushett turnstone

Mark Lucas us association of blind athletes

John Register USOC

Dr. Margaret Stran university of alabama

Douglas Garner university of texasarlington @SportsEmpower

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#Sport4All |

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meet the matches OLEKSANDRA NASADIUK BRIELLE CARTER Ukraine

Ability 360 Sports & Fitness Center

PRIYANTHA PEIRIS BRIELLE CARTER Sri Lanka

Ability 360 Sports & Fitness Center

JULIO RUEDA LARRY LABIAK Guatemala

Chicago Parks District

Anderson gama ian cropp Brazil

Glideslope

bayron lopeZ mark lucas Ecuador

U.S. Association of Blind Athletes

adeline dumapong jeff underwood + beth CURRY Philippines

Lakeshore Foundation

olesya vladykina jeff underwood + beth cURRY Russia

Lakeshore Foundation

jp maunes derek daniels Philippines

Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago

Valeria filiaeva MARY PATSTONE + dr. cheri blauwet Belarus

Spaulding Rehabilitation Network

deepak k.c. MARY PATSTONE + dr. cheri blauwet Nepal

Spaulding Rehabilitation Network

yerlan suleimenov john register Kazakhstan

USOC

njomza emini john register Kosovo

USOC

agwang angella christine DR. margaret stran + mike mushett Uganda

University of Alabama + Turnstone

alemayehu teferi + eyasu hailu douglas garner Ethiopia

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University of Texas-Arlington

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MATCHES ON THE MAP

ARLINGTON, TX BIRMINGHAM, AL BIRMINGHAM, AL BOSTON, MA BOSTON, MA CHICAGO, IL CHICAGO, IL COLORADO SPRINGS, CO COLORADO SPRINGS, CO COLORADO SPRINGS, CO NEW YORK CITY, NY PHOENIX, AZ PHOENIX, AZ TUSCALOOSA, AL

@SportsEmpower

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#Sport4All |

ETHIOPIA PHILIPPINES RUSSIA BELARUS NEPAL GUATEMALA PHILIPPINES ECUADOR KAZAKHSTAN KOSOVO BRAZIL SRI LANKA UKRAINE UGANDA

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OLEKSANDRA NASADIUK UKRAINE

+

BRIELLE CARTER

ABILITY 360 SPORTS & FITNESS CENTER

@SportsEmpower

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#Sport4All |

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OLEKSANDRA NASADIUK Deputy Head of International Relations National Paralympic Committee of Ukraine UKRAINE OLEKSANDRA NASADIUK (or “Sacha,” as she is known

international correspondence and communication;

by her friends) grew up with one sister in Yevpatoriya, a

organizing events; and handling administrative

seaport city in Crimea. Although they share few things

responsibilities for athletes and sports teams. The sports

in common, their one shared feeling was a disinterest in

Sacha works with include athletics, swimming, 7-a-side

playing sports. But that all changed when Sacha’s father,

football, sitting volleyball, Nordic skiing (cross country and

who worked for a rehabilitation center for people with

biathlon), table tennis, wheelchair fencing, and powerlifting.

disabilities in Crimea, asked her to come and help him.

During her first two years with the NPC, she also played a key

“He told me, ‘Come. You have to see it,’” Sacha recalls. “I was at the cerebral palsy football and sitting volleyball competitions, and I just wanted to be there to help in any way I could. I had never seen so many people with disabilities in my life. And I realized that even though I am not disabled, I do so much less than they do.”

role in organizing the Open Ukraine Athletics Competition, Pre-Olympic 7-a-side Football Tournament, and served as the administrative manager for the Euro 2012 Respect Inclusion Showcase organizing tournaments for children who are deaf or have cerebral palsy.

Although she will miss three team competitions for her

Sacha was glad to have the center in her native town.

But she soon moved to the capital, Kyiv, to complete her master’s degree in taxation at the National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine. However, the passion that she had birthed for working in disability sports never left her.

country by participating in the GSMP, Sacha knows the benefits will be long-lasting. Already a young, dynamic leader with strong support from the US Embassy, she hopes to learn ways she can influence national policy to support Paralympic sports and how to seek out diverse funding streams for her organization. With the current conflict affecting her home region of Crimea, Sacha also

In 2011, Sacha accepted a position with the National

wants to find ways to support and reintegrate Ukrainian

Paralympic Committee of Ukraine (known in the country

soldiers returning from war with physical and psychological

as the National Sports Committee for the Disabled). As the

disabilities.

deputy head of the international relations department, she handles a number of different responsibilities: managing

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“Because of the war, many of our programs working with children have been cut due to lack of funds,” Sacha says.

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FROM THE MENTOR’S PERSPECTIVE:

“

We have the privilege and the power to share our knowledge to make a difference together to impact the world within disability and sport. We are most excited to strengthen our responsibility to increase awareness of disability and sport opportunities around the world. Knowledge is power!

“But, in their place we are starting programs in hospitals for disabled soldiers, bringing Paralympic champions to inspire them to continue living and show them there are still opportunities in society. We need to do more of this.”

Brielle and her team at Ability360 are the perfect mentors to assist Sacha toward achieving her goals. The organization has a proven record of success in the community and serves people with disabilities through

seamlessly with Sacha’s ambitions. On

a wide range of sports, a youth

top of all this, the Ability360 campus

afterschool program for children,

is home to 11 other non-profits

and creative inclusion programs

working in the disability sector. St.

where those of all abilities engage

Joseph’s Hospital and Arizona State

each other. Ability360 also works

University are also close partners,

with veterans with post-traumatic

ensuring that Sacha will have a

stress disorder (PTSD), brain trauma,

resource for anything she needs

and sleep disorders, which aligns

during her mentorship.

@SportsEmpower

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#Sport4All |

”

BRIELLE CARTER

Ability 360 Sports & Fitness Center

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OLEKSANDRA NASADIUK

Deputy Head of International Relations National Paralympic Committee of Ukraine UKRAINE

EDUCATION Master’s Degree, Taxation

2011

National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine

FUN FACTS: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY?

Riding a bicycle

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST DREAM?

My biggest dream is to have a peaceful Ukraine and a peaceful world. I want to turn on news and hear that nothing bad happend.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Deputy Head of International Relations National Paralympic Committee of Ukraine Event Organizer

2012

Open Ukraine Athletics Championship (IPC Event) Event Organizer Pre-Olympic 7-a-side Football Tournament (CPISRA Event)

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SUBJECT IN SCHOOL?

I liked algebra. I was interested in finding solutions to problems.

IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE AND WHY?

Green or yellow. Green because it represents something new and fresh, and yellow because it’s like the sun. It’s warm and happy.

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2011-Present

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

2011

THE BIG THREE WITH

OLEKSANDRA NASADIUK UKRAINE

THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To develop a network with other exchange participants

3

To share my experiences from Ukraine and learn from others

To develop a program I can implement in Ukraine

THREE THINGS I WANT MY MENTOR TO KNOW ABOUT ME: I am very hardworking and responsible.

1

I like meeting new people.

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON:

Disciplined Focused Responsible

Leadership Communication Committment

Responsible Disciplined Self-Assured

@SportsEmpower

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#Sport4All |

3

I love my country and hope to make good contributions.

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BRIELLE CARTER

Program Coordinator ABILITY 360 SPORTS & FITNESS CENTER BRIELLE CARTER is an accomplished

Healthful Living and Introduction to

fitness trainer and educator with many

Strength & Conditioning. Brielle holds

years of experience in the field of

certifications in Personal Training,

fitness and recreation. At the

Group Fitness, Indoor Cycling, Insanity,

University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh,

Level 1 Yoga Fit, and American Red

she earned a B.S. in Kinesiology with

Cross CPR/AED/First Aid Instructor.

a minor in Strength & Conditioning

Brielle is also a member of the

and Wellness Promotion and a M.S.

National Intramural Recreation

in Sports Management from East

Sports Association. Brielle is a native

Stroudsburg University. She also is

of Wisconsin. She enjoys spending

an adjunct faculty member for Mesa

time with her children and husband,

Community College and Arizona State

Phillip, and Maddox who is one and

University teaching courses such as

Jax who is 4.

FUN FACTS: DID YOU GO TO UNIVERSITY? IF SO, WHERE AND WHAT DID YOU MAJOR IN?

Yes, I went to the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh for undergraduate studies. I majored in Exercise Science, with a minor in strength and conditioning and wellness promotion. Then, I attended East Stroudsburg University for my graduate work and majored in Sport Management.

DO YOU HAVE ANY SIBLINGS?

Yes, one sister. Her name is Alexi, and we are 17 months apart.

WHO DO YOU ENJOY SPENDING THE MOST TIME WITH AND WHY?

Husband and 2 children. They are the loves of my life!

WHO HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST MENTOR?

My mother because of her strong work ethic.

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GlobalSportsMentoring.org

THE BIG THREE WITH

BRIELLE CARTER

ABILITY 360 SPORTS & FITNESS CENTER THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To engage my Emerging Leader in new sports activities

To provide my Emerging Leader with cultural experiences

3

To provide the best possible experience for my Emerging Leader

THREE THINGS I WANT MY EMERGING LEADER TO KNOW ABOUT ME: I am energetic and always on the go!

1

I am a mother of 2 beautiful boys!

2

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

Willing to learn Enthusiastic Asks questions

@SportsEmpower

Shares knowledge Enthusiastic Provides guidance

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#Sport4All |

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I am from the state of Wisconsin and very loyal to the states sports teams!

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON: Self-Aware Confident Visionary

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

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PRIYANTHA PEIRIS SRI LANKA

+

BRIELLE CARTER

ABILITY 360 SPORTS & FITNESS CENTER

@SportsEmpower

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#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

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PRIYANTHA PEIRIS

Executive Committee Member National Paralympic Committee of Sri Lanka SRI LANKA One of four children born to a Sinhalese family, PRIYANTHA PEIRIS moved to Russia as a college student.

While there, a fire in Priyantha’s hostel forced him to jump from the fifth floor to safety, where he injured his spine upon landing.

Priyantha moved back to Sri Lanka after one year in a Russian hospital, refusing to be discouraged by the injury.

During his rehabilitation, he became involved with the Motivation Charitable Trust and decided to launch his own organization: the Spinal Injuries Association of Sri Lanka.

Since then, Priyantha has accepted several positions with the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) of Sri Lanka, most recently serving as its treasurer starting in 2004.

During this time, he represented Sri Lanka before the

recently ending in 2009. But Priyantha believes sport can serve as a bridge for people of all backgrounds and abilities.

International Paralympic Committee (IPC), managed and

“Sports is one area where you can build reconciliation,”

mentored national wheelchair basketball and tennis

Priyantha says. “We have seen it and we have proved

players, and supervised relief projects following the

it when we set up the NPC. I was able to convince 100

disastrous 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami that killed more

athletes from the north and eastern provinces to work

than 30,000 Sri Lankans and left thousands more injured

with us. Sport may not be the biggest or most valued

and homeless.

integration aspect of reconciliation, but that evidence alone

As a freelance disability equality trainer, Priyantha is very

shows that it can be.”

passionate about reaching out to minority populations in

What makes Priyantha even more confident of achieving

Sri Lanka’s eastern and northern provinces. Historically,

better relations between the two groups is his significant

there has been ethnic tension in the country between

experience in the disability sports sector since 1999.

Sinhalese and Tamil people, with a 25-year civil war only

During S4C, he will turn 50 years old, making him one of

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GlobalSportsMentoring.org

FROM THE MENTOR’S PERSPECTIVE:

“

For me, mentorship doesn’t have to be formal. It can happen around the track

the oldest participants in the Global

or while shooting baskets.

Sports Mentoring Program. “I could

Sports opens up the doors

do the same thing young people can

to talk about barriers and

do in half the time because of my

challenges. I want Priyantha

experience,” Priyantha laughs.

and Sacha to feel like we’re

At Ability360, Brielle and her team

having a conversation and

have the exact tools to help Priyantha

to be available to them every

meet his goals, as well as to help

moment they’re here. All

him learn more about mentorship,

world together.

sports motivation, and expose him to new and foreign cultures. The

BRIELLE CARTER

organization has a strong background

Ability 360 Sports & Fitness Center

in therapeutic recreation and recently brought on an outreach specialist to discover the best ways to recruit for

Priyantha with the perfect platform for

its programs. Roughly 33 percent of

continuing and expanding his work

Ability360’s participants have a spinal

in Sri Lanka, especially as he looks to

cord disability, which has been a

focus his Action Plan on preparing for

focus area for Priyantha in his career.

the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games.

Their time together will provide

@SportsEmpower

”

three of us can change the

human psychology and its roles in

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#Sport4All |

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PRIYANTHA PEIRIS

Executive Committee Member National Paralympic Committee of Sri Lanka SRI LANKA

EDUCATION Certificate, Disability Equality Training

2011

Mobility India Bachelor’s Degree, Law

FUN FACTS: WHO DO YOU ENJOY SPENDING THE MOST TIME WITH AND WHY?

My fiancée because she is the person who understands me best. I feel very relaxed when we’re together. She’s also my personal assistant and travel companion.

1993-1995

Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Freelancer Disability Equality, Motivation, and Leadership Trainer Vice Secretary

To direct a movie based on human behavior, thinking patterns, attitudes, and discrimination.

WHAT DO YOU WANT YOUR LEGACY TO BE?

I want my legacy to be as a role model who inspired people to rebuild their lives following an injury.

2001-Present

Prior roles: Assistant Secretary, Secretary General, Treasurer National Paralympic Committee of Sri Lanka Founder, President

1999-Present

Spinal Injuries Association of Sri Lanka Peer Group Trainer Motivation Charitable Trust

DO YOU HAVE ANY PETS?

Yes, a dog named Buba and few cats.

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Present

Sri Lanka Foundation for Rehabilitation of the Disabled (SLFRD) Executive Committee Member

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST DREAM?

Present

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

1998-Present

THE BIG THREE WITH

PRIYANTHA PEIRIS SRI LANKA

THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To meet others, share experiences, and learn from them

3

To apply what I learn so I can motivate others in my home country

To gain a thorough understanding of mentorship

THREE THINGS I WANT MY MENTOR TO KNOW ABOUT ME:

1

I’m a wheelchair user but also active, enthusiastic, and hard working.

2

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON:

Inclusive Persuasive Visionary

Enthusiastic Knowledgeable Passionate

Confident Independent Takes Initiative

I am flexible with my time, open-minded, and enjoy humor.

@SportsEmpower

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#Sport4All |

3

I like to learn and experience new things.

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226 SPORT FOR COMMUNITY

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

JULIO RUEDA

GUATEMALA

+

LARRY LABIAK

CHICAGO PARK DISTRICT

@SportsEmpower

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#Sport4All |

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JULIO RUEDA Project Manager GLORSYS GUATEMALA Born in Guatemala City, JULIO RUEDA has played sports since he was very young. Alongside his brother, who helps him run sports programs to this day, he would rush out of the house to play football, basketball, and table tennis— anything to release his energy.

After a car accident left him paralyzed in 2008, Julio sought tirelessly for the right sport to help him push forward. Just like when he was a young boy with his brother, he tried athletics, badminton and wheelchair basketball.

“But none of them fit me perfect,” Julio says. “But when I started to play tennis I felt like ‘Wow. This is for me!’”

In the past six years, Julio has risen to the International Tennis Federation Top 30 rankings in men’s wheelchair opportunities to thrive are available for disabled people.

tennis (quadriplegic classification).

Julio began reaching out to friends online and created an Aside from his athletic ambitions, Julio is also the founder

online hub for people of all abilities to go out and play

of GLORSYs, a company that provides conferences and

sports together. Through his international travel for tennis

workshops to schools and rehabilitation centers for

competitions, he also started collecting learning materials

people with disabilities. The main focus of Julio’s work is

and sharing information with coaches from different

to motivate and help people live independently, pursue

disciplines, including badminton, athletics, and wheelchair

sports, and adjust to new circumstances if they acquired

basketball.

their disabilities as adults.

“To succeed in tennis, you need to be smart because you’re

Julio’s motivation to reach others came out of the reality that Guatemala is still not in a position where access and

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alone on the court. I loved team sports before, but now I have had to learn to be on my own, which applies to

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

FROM THE MENTOR’S PERSPECTIVE:

“

As a person with a disability, I want to educate the

life with a disability in Guatemala,”

non-disabled public to

Julio says. “If we can make it so that

understand people come

out of 20 children, maybe just two

in all shapes, sizes, physical

or three can find a way to make it to

abilities and cognitive

professional sports, then I think that’s

conditions. We have to

a perfect step in the right direction.”

see people as people; see

In order to take that step of engaging

the worker, the athlete, the

young athletes and bringing them

taxpayer. For that reason,

from grassroots to high-performance

I don’t just want to be a

sports, Julio needs to learn about

role model for people with

advocacy and securing financial and practical support from government

vital experience in collaborating with

and sponsors. With more than 20

local governments and communities,

years of experience working in local

as well as creative approaches to

government offices in the area of

fundraising. Additionally, the large

disability and youth initiatives, Larry

pool of Paralympians in Chicago,

is the ideal mentor. As the disability

and the resources available through

policy officer for the Chicago Parks

the University of Illinois at Urbana-

District, the first park system in the

Champaign, will ensure Julio returns

U.S. with major focus on accessibility

home with a comprehensive plan

and disability programming, Larry

for how to take disability sports in

and his team will provide Julio with

Guatemala to the next level.

@SportsEmpower

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#Sport4All |

”

disabilities, but for all people.

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LARRY LABIAK

Chicago Park District

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JULIO RUEDA

Project Manager GLORSYS GUATEMALA

EDUCATION Diploma, Management

2006

San Carlos de Guatemala University Bachelor’s Degree, Science and Systems Engineering

FUN FACTS: WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST DREAM?

San Carlos de Guatemala University

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

To win a Paralympic medal for my country.

Professional Wheelchair Tennis Player

HAVE YOU EVER TRAVELED OUTSIDE YOUR HOME COUNTRY?

Founder, Director

Yes. I loved Tokyo,Japan.

The culture, friendly people, delicious food, and excellent accessibility.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SUBJECT IN SCHOOL?

2010-Present

International Tennis Federation (ITF) 2009-Present

GLORSYS (Global Informatics Systems) Project Manager

2006-2008

ICON Americas Consultant Analyst/Implementation Sistran Consultants

Programming and software development. I love creating things to be used by others. I also liked PE because I could exercise and play.

WHAT DO YOU WANT YOUR LEGACY TO BE?

I want to leave an example to others that they can succeed despite difficulties.

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2004

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

2005

THE BIG THREE WITH

JULIO RUEDA GUATEMALA

THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To develop partnerships so I can promote adapted sport in my country

3

To help people with disabilities live healthy and productive lives

To learn new ways to empower people with disabilities

THREE THINGS I WANT MY MENTOR TO KNOW ABOUT ME: I am a determined person who is driven by my goals.

1

I like discipline and teamwork.

I also take initiative to find solutions.

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON:

Leadership Respect Open-Mindedness

Leadership Kindness Clarity

Organized Driven Connected

@SportsEmpower

2

|

#Sport4All |

3

I’m passionate about sports, especially wheelchair tennis.

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

31

LARRY LABIAK Disability Policy Officer CHICAGO PARK DISTRICT

LARRY LABIAK began his professional

a competitor, floor official, coach and

career in the broadcast journalism

administrator in adaptive sports and

industry after earning bachelor’s and

recreation programs for youth and

master’s degrees in communications

adults with disabilities. After 12 years

from the University of Illinois

serving in the Chicago Mayor’s Office

at Urbana-Champaign. He later

for People with Disabilities, Larry was

operated a successful durable medical

appointed the District’s Disability

equipment sales while accruing

Policy Officer in 2005 and continues to

more than 30 years of experience as

serve in that capacity.

FUN FACTS: DO YOU HAVE ANY SIBLINGS? IF SO, HOW MANY?

Yes, I have 7 sisters and 2 brothers.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY?

I enjoy playing softball and officiating basketball.

WHAT DO YOU WANT YOUR LEGACY TO BE?

I’d love to be remembered as someone who helped create a better world one person and one opportunity at a time.

IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE AND WHY?

I’d be green because it’s the color of grass and trees, which all around provide foundation.

WHERE ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE DESTINATIONS?

I loved Hawaii. It seems like another country at times.

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GlobalSportsMentoring.org

THE BIG THREE WITH

LARRY LABIAK

CHICAGO PARK DISTRICT THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To provide resources that my Emerging Leader can use and apply

To share as much as I can to benefit my Emerging Leader

3

To broaden both of our horizons

THREE THINGS I WANT MY EMERGING LEADER TO KNOW ABOUT ME: I’m a hard worker.

1

I take my work seriously.

2

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON:

Empathy Passion Compassion

Empathy Passion Compassion

Positive SelfIdentity Relatable Sense of purpose

@SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

3

I use humor often.

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

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234 SPORT FOR COMMUNITY

GlobalSportsMentoring.org GlobalSportsMentoring.org

ANDERSON GAMA

BRAZIL

+

IAN CROPP

GLIDESLOPE

@SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

35

ANDERSON GAMA Marketing Manager Obra Social Dona Meca BRAZIL Two years ago, ANDERSON GAMA was entering the final year of his bachelor’s degree in communications at the Universidade Estácio de Sá when he was accepted to participate in a student exchange program in Toronto, Canada. Looking to gain further experience in marketing and advertising before graduation, he began searching for an internship upon his return to Brazil.

It was then that a friend told Anderson about Obra Social Dona Meca (OSDM),

36

an NGO in the Taquara neighborhood

Anderson took the internship and

For its different projects, OSDM

of Rio de Janeiro that works with

is now the marketing manager for

has been able to develop strong

children with disabilities.

ODSM. Currently, the organization

partnerships with Olympic Villages,

serves 250 children and youth

multinational oil company Petrobras,

“It was an exciting opportunity,”

through multiple therapy services—

professional football club Vasco da

Anderson says. “You need to do a

physio-, occupational, speech,

Gama, and multiple other NGOs

little bit of everything here. I handle

psychomotor—and a wide range of

around Rio. Anderson plays a key role

marketing, graphic design, and I talk

sports programs, including Capoeira,

in working directly with sponsors to

directly with sponsors. I think that

running, basketball, football, and

coordinate media strategy through

everybody who works at a non-profit

swimming. The organization also runs

advertising, website design, and

organization wants to make the world

a shelter, Casa Lar Dona Meca, for

publications.

a better place, and that’s what I want

upwards of ten orphaned youth with

to do.”

disabilities.

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

With the Olympic and Paralympic

children with opportunities from the

Games happening in Rio from August

recreational to the high-performance

through September, Anderson and

level.

his team have been planning events

With his own experience in marketing

for the OSDM youth to experience the

and as a sports strategy manager for

excitement and grow the number of

Glideslope, Ian Cropp makes the ideal

children with disabilities they reach

mentor Anderson. Over the past five

with their programs.

years, Ian, who is fluent in Portuguese,

FROM THE MENTOR’S PERSPECTIVE:

“

Everybody can benefit from a mentor, whether they’re just starting out in their career or at the peak of it. Mentorship

“Aside from the Games, we will host

has worked with Olympic sponsors

our own smaller sports events here

looking to enter the Brazilian market,

in our club and invite our partners to

private brands and agencies, and

attend,” Anderson says. “We want to

both the U.S. Olympic Committee

use the Paralympic Games as a mirror

and U.S. Paralympics. In addition to

I know where to go to find

so the children can see what they can

Ian, the team of experts at Glideslope

it. I lean on Anderson to

achieve if they never give up.”

has the experience of participating

give me guidance. Ours is a

in GSMP: Sport 4 Community with

give-and-take relationship.

Brazilian emerging leader Alessandro

Together we’re stronger than

One of Anderson’s key focus areas leading up to the Paralympic Games

Martins in 2014, and will be able to

is on developing OSDM’s marketing

help Anderson develop a plan to grow

strategy to attract more sponsors for its

person. I may not always have the right answer, but

of Rio de Janeiro.

sports programs that can provide

|

#Sport4All |

”

as individuals.

OSDM’s impact across Taquara and all

events and to create a more structured

@SportsEmpower

is about understanding a

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

IAN CROPP Glideslope

37

ANDERSON GAMA

Marketing Manager Obra Social Dona Meca BRAZIL

EDUCATION Bachelor’s Degree, Social Communications

2009-Present

Concentration: Marketing and Advertising Universidade Estácio de Sá

FUN FACTS: WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST DREAM?

To someday work for an organization such as UNICEF so I can help make a difference in people’s lives all around the world.

WHO DO YOU ENJOY SPENDING THE MOST TIME WITH AND WHY?

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Manager of Marketing & Institutional Development Obra Social Dona Meca Social Director & Graphic Design

2012-Present

Virgula Agency Access Control Supervisor Ingresso Mais

My girlfriend because I can truly be myself with her.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SUBJECT IN SCHOOL?

History because it helps explain trends in the society and enables us to learn from the past.

WHO HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST MENTOR?

My dad. He inspires me to be a better man and stands by me until my dreams come true.

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2014-Present

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

2011-2014

THE BIG THREE WITH

ANDERSON GAMA BRAZIL

THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

3

To learn how to establish and expand sponsorships

To gain new networks and meet other disability advocates

To learn about organizational structure

THREE THINGS I WANT MY MENTOR TO KNOW ABOUT ME: I love working in a non-profit organization.

1

I’m passionate about marketing strategies.

2

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR: Listens Knowledgeable Respectful

Open-Minded Team Player Optimistic

@SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

3

Punctuality is important to me.

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON: Confident Unafraid Free

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

39

IAN CROPP

Sports Strategy Manager GLIDESLOPE

IAN CROPP joined the GlideSlope

Rio 2016 sponsors. Previously, Ian

team in 2015 after three years at Altis

worked as a journalist, covering sports

Marketing, an Olympic sponsorship

and outdoors in Colorado. Ian holds

consulting firm. While at Altis, Ian

a B.A. in political science from Brown

worked extensively in Brazil, helping

University and an MBA from The

companies in their bid to become

George Washington University.

FUN FACTS: WHO DO YOU ENJOY SPENDING THE MOST TIME WITH AND WHY?

Friends! I love meeting new people and sharing experiences with them.

HAVE YOU TRAVELED OUTSIDE OF YOUR HOME COUNTRY? IF SO, WHERE WAS YOUR FAVORITE DESTINATION?

Yes! I really enjoyed the Maré favela in Rio where I was able to meet kids from a program called Fight for Peace. They were so inspiring and driven.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SUBJECT IN SCHOOL AND WHY?

History because it provides great perspective on the world.

WHAT DO YOU WANT YOUR LEGACY TO BE?

That people will care for others and be kind when they think of me.

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GlobalSportsMentoring.org

THE BIG THREE WITH

IAN CROPP GLIDESLOPE

THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To provide my Emerging Leader with tools and valuable experiences

To help my Emerging Leader achieve his goals

3

To build a lasting relationship with my Emerging Leader

THREE THINGS I WANT MY emerging leader TO KNOW ABOUT ME:

1

I am passionate about the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

2

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

I am very open and available and like others to ask lots of questions.

Willing to learn Delegates Listens

@SportsEmpower

3

I speak Portuguese and Spanish.

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON:

Observant Listens Resourceful

|

#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

Present Informed Humble

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242 SPORT FOR COMMUNITY

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

BAYRON LOPEZ

ECUADOR

+

MARK LUCAS

U.S. ASSOCIATION OF BLIND ATHLETES

@SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

43

BAYRON LOPEZ

President National Paralympic Committee of Ecuador ECUADOR As a young man, BAYRON LOPES BURGOS was among the popular kids in the neighborhood. He loved to hang out with his friends and play sports. But, then he was in a motorcycle accident that forced doctors to amputate his left leg, and everything changed.

Bayron’s friends left and he was often alone at home with his family. Because of the fear of being discriminated against if he went out in the streets, he felt isolated and alone.

At the age of 19, Bayron had the opportunity to meet Ann Cody, program officer for the SportsUnited division of the U.S. State Department, Paralympic gold medalist, and governing board member of the International Paralympic Committee. It was around this time that he discovered wheelchair basketball, swimming and, ultimately, his true

with disabilities—Club El Empalme—in 2007, Bayron was

passion for racing.

appointed as the president of the National Paralympic

“I have won over 200 medals in the last 10 years,” Bayron says. “For me, every morning those medals inspire me. And I know there are many people with disabilities who need the same opportunity. Sport changed my life and I know it can change many, many more lives.”

Bayron is also a pioneer for disability sports and the Paralympic movement in Ecuador. After launching and gaining attention for his own sports club for people

44

Committee of Ecuador in 2012. In this position, he meets regularly with the US Embassy and Ministry of Sports to find ways to increase resources available to people with disabilities that want to pursue sports at both the grassroots and high-performance levels.

But, there is still a severe lack of facilities and accessibility due the economic instability of the country. To illustrate how hard it is for disabled athletes, Bayron explains that he often trains at 2 a.m. on public roads, one of the few times

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

when there is little traffic and he and

working with visually impaired and

his training partners aren’t in danger

blind children and athletes. In his

of being struck by a car.

current role, he manages fundraising programs and budgeting for USABA,

“Right now in our country the money

implements and monitors sports

runs out,” Bayron says. “There is not

management programs for a range

enough money to support those

of sports—athletics, goalball, judo,

with disabilities. And we have a lot of

swimming, skiing, and others— and

people now who say they are working

acts as USABA’s chief spokesman to

with us, but they don’t know how

the USOC, where he also serves as an

and we’re losing time and money by

executive member of the Multisport

investing in the wrong places. We

Organization Council. Mark will

need to have information on how to

guide Bayron through the process

invest the small amount of money we

of developing relationships with

receive to support programs that can

prominent community partners and

be successful.”

potential donors, as well as connect

When it comes to experience

him with key influencers in the field.

in executive leadership in the

Together, the two men will come

disability sport sector, Bayron

up with a plan that allows Bayron to

receives the model mentor in Mark

create a sustainable platform that

Lucas, executive director of the

guarantees a bright future for both

U.S. Association of Blind Athletes.

young and established athletes with

Mark has 30 years of experience

disabilities in Ecuador.

@SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

FROM THE MENTOR’S PERSPECTIVE:

“

For years, I ran a summer camp in Malibu teaching leadership skills to the blind and those working with the blind. I’ve been thrust into that role of a mentor and its empowering for me to teach people how to become better leaders. I believe it’s part of my calling here on Earth.

”

MARK LUCAS

U.S. Association of Blind Athletes

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

45

BAYRON LOPEZ

President Paralympic Committee of Ecuador ECUADOR

EDUCATION Secondary School Diploma

2011

Colegio Nacional Mixto Simón Bolívar

FUN FACTS: IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE AND WHY?

Blue because I connect with the vast sea and all the secrets it holds, which inspires me to keep fighting for my goals.

WHO HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST MENTOR?

My sister Legny. After my accident, she helped me realize that I am worthy because I am a human being and that I could accomplish things if I worked hard.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS President

2012-Present

National Paralympic Committee of Ecuador President

2015-Present

Paralympic Sports Club for People with Disabilities Vice President

2011-2015

Paralympic Sports Club for People with Disabilities President

2012-2013

Ecuadorian Sports Federation for People with Disabilities (FEDEPDIF) President El Empalme Sports Club and Association for People with Disabilities

DID YOU INTEND TO PURSUE THE CAREER YOU’RE IN NOW?

Yes. I like helping the most disadvantaged people through sports because we can change lives and society.

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GlobalSportsMentoring.org

2007-2011

THE BIG THREE WITH

BAYRON LOPEZ ECUADOR

THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To learn how to better train those working with people with disabilities

3

To learn promotional strategies so I can create better partnerships

To gain best practices on providing inclusivity in rural areas

THREE THINGS I WANT MY MENTOR TO KNOW ABOUT ME: I’m a passionate person.

1

I like teaching people with disabilities to fight for their rights.

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON:

Makes Good Decisions Collaborative Altruistic

Experienced Listens Provides Friendship

Selfless Driven Has Power

@SportsEmpower

2

|

#Sport4All |

3

I’m determined to be an example for others.

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

47

MARK LUCAS

Executive Director U.S. ASSOCIATION OF BLIND ATHLETES

MARK LUCAS, the Executive Director

and management of USABA

of the U.S. Association of Blind

fundraising programs; managing the

Athletes (USABA), has worked with

organizational budget; implementing

people who are blind and visually

and monitoring a sports management

impaired individuals for nearly 25

program for USABA’s nine Olympic

years. Lucas first began working with

and Paralympic sports; hiring and

blind and visually impaired people in

overseeing USABA national office

1985 as the Director of Recreation for

staff and volunteers; and serving

the Foundation for the Junior Blind

as USABA’s chief spokesperson to

in Los Angeles, Calif. In 1993, Lucas

organizations and associations,

relocated to Colorado Springs, Colo.

including the U.S. Olympic Committee

to serve as the Assistant Executive

and other national and international

Director for USABA and became

federations. Lucas has served in

the Executive Director in 2001. In

support staff capacities with the USOC

this capacity, he is responsible

for the ’96, ‘00 and ’04 Paralympic

for facilitating the development

Games.

FUN FACTS: WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SUBJECT IN SCHOOL AND WHY?

I enjoyed geography because you could study the world and its cultures.

WHAT DO YOU WANT YOUR LEGACY TO BE?

I would like to be remembered as a person who made a difference in the lives of many people.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE EXTREME SPORT TO WATCH OR PLAY?

I will run an ultra marathon this summer guiding a blind person to the top of Pikes Peak Mountain and back down.

IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE AND WHY?

I would be Scarlett and Grey -Go Buckeyes!

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GlobalSportsMentoring.org

THE BIG THREE WITH

MARK LUCAS

U.S. ASSOCIATION OF BLIND ATHLETES THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To learn from my Emerging Leader, his life, family, and culture

To be a great mentor for my Emerging Leader

3

To help my Emerging Leader create an impactful project

THREE THINGS I WANT MY emerging leader TO KNOW ABOUT ME: I care about ALL people.

1

My wife and my family are the most important part of my life.

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON:

Driven Adaptive Creative

Experience Integrity Listens

Independent Productive Growth-Minded

@SportsEmpower

2

|

#Sport4All |

3

I have the greatest job in the world.

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

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250 SPORT FOR COMMUNITY

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

ADELINE DUMAPONG

PHILIPPINES

+

JEFF UNDERWOOD LAKESHORE FOUNDATION

BETH CURRY

LAKESHORE FOUNDATION @SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

51

ADELINE DUMAPONG

Paralympian; Philippine Sports Association for the Differently Abled National Paralympic Committee of the Philippines PHILIPPINES ADELINE DUMAPONG is not the type of person to get discouraged by difficult situations. Born into a poor family in the mountainous landlocked province of Ifugao in the Philippines, she was diagnosed with polio at the age of 6 and was moved to a school for children with disabilities seven hours south in Manila.

It was at that school that a Belgian missionary first exposed Adeline to sports.

“I tried everything when I was younger,” Adeline says. “Wheelchair racing, wheelchair basketball, swimming. But, I really wanted to find a sport that made me feel strong. And here I am now.”

“Here” for Adeline is preparing for her fifth Paralympic Games as a member of the Philippines’ powerlifting team. In the 2000 Sydney Games, Adeline became the first Filipina to earn a medal, winning bronze in her

52

category, and she has participated in

Paralympic Committee of the

every Paralympics since then.

Philippines (PHILSPADA-NPC PHIL).

At the age of 42, Adeline will compete

These positions include athlete’s

in her final Paralympic Games in

representative, board treasurer, and

Rio before transitioning out of

point person for the Women in Sport

competition.

Committee launched by the Asian

Aside from managing two competitive wheelchair basketball teams, she also holds several roles within the Philippine Sports Association for the Differently Abled—National

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

Paralympic Committee.

Adeline believes in the power of mentorship and has taken leadership courses throughout the year to prepare for her the transition. But, she has run into issues at the grassroots

FROM THE MENTOR’S PERSPECTIVE:

“

level when trying to recruit children to participate in Paralympic sports because of parents’ fears.

“Parents are ashamed or afraid of letting their children play sports,” Adeline says. “I am considered an exception to the rule. Participating in the Global Sports Mentoring Program: Sport for Community can help me—it can serve as the feather in my cap when I reach out to them.”

The Lakeshore Foundation has participated in multiple Department of State exchanges and since 1984 has

the-art facilities at Lakeshore, and the

lived its vision of improving the lives

years of experience in this sector, they

of people with disabilities throughout

will be able to provide Adeline with

the world from young athletes to

both a space to train for the Rio 2016

Paralympic hopefuls. Jeff Underwood,

Games, as well as the mentorship

Beth Curry and their versatile team

needed for her to help develop

represent a variety of strengths

another generation of Filipino

from advocacy and policymaking

Paralympians.

The vision of Lakeshore Foundation is to improve the lives of people with disability around the globe. I can think of no better way to pursue that vision than through sharing and learning with other leaders in this field.

The connections made through international exchanges and the relationships formed are amazing, impactful, and life changing for everyone involved.

to programming and activities for disabled athletes. With the state-of-

@SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

”

JEFF UNDERWOOD Lakeshore Foundation

53

ADELINE DUMAPONG

Paralympian; Philippine Sports Association for the Differently Abled National Paralympic Committee of the Philippines PHILIPPINES

EDUCATION B.S., Computer Secretarial Administration and Education

1995

Saint Paul University of Quezon City

FUN FACTS: DO YOU HAVE ANY BROTHERS OR SISTERS

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Athlete Representative Women in Paralympic Sport Point Person

Yes, I have 3 sisters and 2 brothers.

Philippine Sports Association for the Differently Abled

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST DREAM?

Committee Member

My biggest dream is to have a foundation that provides services to people with a disability. I’d love to give back all the help and support I received when I was a child.

HAVE YOU TRAVELED OUTSIDE YOUR HOME COUNTRY?

Yes. I have traveled for sports competition and music performances. My favorite destination was Australia because it’s where I won my first Paralympic medal. It was not only for myself but also for my country. I loved every minute I was there.

54

2005-Present

National Paralympic Committee 2015-Present

Asian Paralympic Committee-Women in Sport Committee (APC-WISC) Executive Director

2011-2015

Freedom Technology Wheelchair Foundation Inc. Marketing Director

2013-2015

Freedom Technology Wheelchair Foundation Inc. Office Staff/Communications Officer Philippine Sports Association for the Differently Abled National Paralympic Committee

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

2006-2011

THE BIG THREE WITH

ADELINE DUMAPONG PHILIPPINES

THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To gain a network of strength for athletes with disabilities

3

To learn ways to increase participation, especially among women

To learn about advocacy, involvement, and inclusion

THREE THINGS I WANT MY MENTOR TO KNOW ABOUT ME: I can be shy at times but open up with a little prodding.

1

I like deadlines.

They serve as goals.

2

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

Open-Minded Passionate Committed

@SportsEmpower

Available Open-Minded Patient

|

#Sport4All |

3

I appreciate honesty and direct feedback.

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON: Confident Passionate Committed

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

55

JEFF UNDERWOOD President LAKESHORE FOUNDATION

BETH CURRY

Chief Program Officer LAKESHORE FOUNDATION

JEFF UNDERWOOD is President of

BETH CURRY serves as Chief Program

Lakeshore Foundation, one of the

Officer at Lakeshore Foundation and

country’s largest providers of fitness,

is responsible for development,

sport, and recreation programs

implementation and management

for people with physical disability.

of programs, activities, and events

Lakeshore is an official USOC training

that fulfill the mission and vision of

site for Olympic and Paralympic athletes.

Lakeshore Foundation.

Prior to his current position,

Prior to this role, Beth worked at

Underwood worked for the University

Lakeshore Rehabilitation Hospital

of Alabama at Birmingham and served

for 24 years, beginning her career as

as a Legislative Assistant to former

a physical therapist and ultimately

U.S. Congressman Ben Erdreich.

serving as the Director of Therapy

Underwood has served elected office

Operations, supervising the daily

as a city councilman in his hometown

functions for both inpatient and

of Homewood, Alabama and as a state

outpatient therapy services.

Senator in Alabama. He has served on the Board of several community and civic organizations including the Homewood City School Board, the Bryant-Jordan Scholarship Program, and the national Board of Disabled Sports USA. Underwood is also a member of the USOC-appointed Paralympic Advisory Council.

Beth received her B.S. in Mathematics from Birmingham-Southern College in 1982 and her M.S. in Physical Therapy from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 1984. She serves on the health careers subcommittee of the Norton Board for BirminghamSouthern College which assists students interested in pursuing careers in healthcare.

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GlobalSportsMentoring.org

FUN FACTS: DO YOU HAVE ANY SIBLINGS? IF SO HOW MANY?

Both: Each of us has two brothers and two sisters.

WHAT WERE YOUR FAVORITE SUBJECTS IN SCHOOL AND WHY?

Beth: It’s a funny combination, but I liked Math was because there was a process and a correct answer and Religion because it made you think from varying perspectives.

WHAT IS YOUR GREAT ESCAPE?

Jeff: I love the beach.

Beth: I love the woods.

DO YOU HAVE ANY PETS? IF SO, WHAT KIND?

Jeff: I have a Shitz Zu dog named Lulu.

Beth: I have 3 cats. They’re all rescue animals named Pounce, Jake, and Max

THE BIG THREE WITH

JEFF UNDERWOOD & BETH CURRY LAKESHORE FOUNDATION

THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To help our Emerging Leaders address issues in their communities

To learn from this experience personally and professionally

3

To have an impact on the development of our Emerging Leaders

THREE THINGS WE WANT OUR emerging leaderS TO KNOW ABOUT US: We are very excited to be a host.

1

We can get busy at times but are always open and flexible.

2

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR: Listens Aware Committed

Listens Passionate Willing to share

@SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

3

We are passionate about our work.

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON: Knowledgeable Confident Humble

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

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258 SPORT FOR COMMUNITY

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

OLESYA VLADYKINA RUSSIA

+

JEFF UNDERWOOD LAKESHORE FOUNDATION

BETH CURRY

LAKESHORE FOUNDATION @SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

59

OLESYA VLADYKINA

Paralympian National Paralympic Team of Russia RUSSIA OLESYA VLADYKINA grew up around sports in Moscow, the capital and largest city in Russia.

Her mother competed in athletics (track & field) and her father was a cross-country skier. Olesya’s brother is an ice hockey player. But, from the time she was a young girl, she decided to try something different by competing in swimming.

In early 2008, after 10 years of sustained success in the pool, Olesya was involved in a bus accident in Thailand and lost her left arm. She was afraid it might be the end of her career. Only five months later, determined to “continue living,” she competed in the 2008 Beijing

Championships in her career. She now

I didn’t know how I could continue

Paralympics and won a gold medal

prepares to compete in her third and

living. Sports helped me realize that I

in 100m breaststroke, setting a new

final Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro this

am a full person and that I can dream

world record in the process.

summer.

and achieve.”

Olesya added three more medals

“I can say that sports really saved my

Already one of the country’s most

at the 2012 London Games, to

life,” Olesya says. “When I lost my

accomplished female swimmers at

complement the dozen or so she

arm, my mental state was so terrible.

the age of 28, Olesya plans for a long

won at different World and European 60

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FROM THE MENTOR’S PERSPECTIVE:

“

Lakeshore is a fortunate organization. Sometimes

and successful future outside of the

Department for Physical Culture and

pool, where she can influence a new

Sport and an Honored Master of

generation of Russians to follow in her

Sport in Russia for her professional

footsteps and reach the medals stand.

achievements.

“Being an ambassador at the Sochi

At Lakeshore Foundation, Olesya will

Games helped me to realize that

have access to facilities to train for

parking lot. We have a list

sport can really bring changes in my

her final Paralympic bid in Rio. More

country,” Olesya says. “I want more

importantly, through mentors Jeff

of values at Lakeshore that

inclusion. I may be an athlete, but I’m

Underwood & Beth Curry, she will

also a Paralympian, which gives me a

join a team of people with extensive

different perspective. Everyday I see

experience in policy, advocacy,

the problems faced by people with

and education on disability. Their

disabilities in my country, especially

collaboration, as well as the exposure

children and their parents.”

to the research and other resources the precise tools she will need to

advocate within the disability community in Russia, partnering with charities and sharing her story at

we offer. And, yet, our history basketball team in a hot

includes creating and changing expectations. Sometimes society provides people with disabilities with low expectations. Stretching them is what we strive for because ALL people need that. It is the people and their heart and passion for what we do that

Russia, as well as promote inclusion

makes us so special.

disabilities at the grassroots level

in the media. She is also an advisor

across the country.

to the head of the Moscow State

|

”

influence the education curriculum in and participation of children with

events around the country, including

@SportsEmpower

how many different things started off as a wheelchair

at Lakeshore, provides Olesya with

Olesya is already a prominent

people are overwhelmed by

#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

BETH CURRY Lakeshore Foundation

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OLESYA VLADYKINA

Paralympian National Paralympic Team of Russia RUSSIA

EDUCATION Honoured Master of Sport

2012

United Sports Classification System of Russia Bachelor’s Degree, Sports Management

FUN FACTS: HAVE YOU TRAVELED OUTSIDE YOUR HOME COUNTRY?

Yes. A few of my favorite destinations are Rio de Janeiro, Barcelona, Tokyo, Maldives, and Los Angeles.

WHAT IS YOUR “GREAT ESCAPE” WHEN YOU NEED REST AND PEACE?

I really enjoy spending time in nature.

Moscow State University of Railway Engineering

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Advisor

2011-Present

Department of Physical Culture and Sports in Moscow Athlete-Instructor

2008-Present

Center of Sports Preparation of National Teams of Russia Russian Paralympic Swim Team Member Global Shapers Community - Moscow

IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE AND WHY?

Yellow because it’s the color of the sun and the heat of summer.

DO YOU HAVE ANY BROTHERS OR SISTERS?

Yes, I have one brother named Nikolay.

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2011

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Present

THE BIG THREE WITH

OLESYA VLADKYINA RUSSIA

THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

3

To improve myself and make change in my country

To gain a network of support through experiences with others

To learn as much as I can about disability sports

THREE THINGS I WANT MY MENTOR TO KNOW ABOUT ME: I enjoy having some alone time to reflect.

1

I am working to improve my english.

2

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

Passionate Patient Social

Patient Compassionate Kind

@SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

3

I love sports and being outdoors.

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON: Responsible Reliable Communicator

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

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264 SPORT FOR COMMUNITY

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JP MAUNES

PHILIPPINES

+

DEREK DANIELS

REHABILITATION INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO

@SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

65

JP MAUNES

CEO and Founder Philippine Accessible Deaf Services PHILIPPINES JOHN PAUL MAUNES, or “JP” for short, lived the typical life of a boy.

Growing up with one brother and one sister in an urban section of Cebu in the Philippines, he was always outside playing sports—specifically, football, which he still holds close to his heart (JP is a member of the Azkals national football team fan club in Cebu).

But, he was diagnosed with a minor brain condition that forced doctors to keep him from the football field. For a year, he focused on simply recovering.

the advocacy work, letting hearing

sign language interpretation into

In that time, he began volunteering to

people understand and create better

national news broadcasts, mobilizing

occupy his time. Through his volunteer

platforms for the involvement of deaf

hundreds of local and international

work, JP met his best friend, Peter

people and persons with disabilities.”

volunteers, and launching the

Paul, who played basketball with him and later introduced him to the deaf

By 21, JP started Gualandi Volunteer

community. Sadly, Peter Paul died in

Service Programme (now known as

an accident when he was 17 years old.

Philippine Accessible Deaf Services, Inc. or “PADS”). In the past decade,

“His death was really hard for me

PADS has become one of the most

because he was my best friend,” JP

successful deaf services organizations

says. “It’s hard for a young guy to

in the country, accomplishing a

lose a very important person. But, I

number of important goals for the

promised myself that I would continue

deaf community, including integrating

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award-winning Break the Silence campaign to advocate for deaf victims of sexual abuse and exploitation. In 2013, JP and his organization helped to mobilize NGOs and volunteers following Super Typhoon Yolanda in a humanitarian response that has served approximately 15,000 people with disabilities to date.

JP, who is also a registered nurse,

for JP. In his role at the RIC, Derek

regularly receives interview requests

collaborates with local and regional

from local and national media for

adaptive sports clubs and partners

his role as principal advocate for the

to provide some of the best adaptive

deaf community. This attention led

sports programming in the United

to his selection as a 2015 Ashoka

States. While they work with a pool of

Fellow. But, he still knows there is

Paralympians in Chicago, Derek and

more for him to learn in order to reach

his team’s work starts from the ground

even more people with disabilities

up and is made possible through

throughout the Philippines.

creative fundraising strategies. They will be able to assist JP in developing

“Disability advocacy in the Philippines

marketing and fundraising strategies

is new and there are few laws,” JP

for PADs programs, as well as to

says. “It is difficult to network without

provide him with best practices in the

the right background. I’ve received

field of disability sport, healthcare,

good exposure and have been able to

and rehabilitation. Through this

gain skills and confidence to expand

mentorship, JP will also gain the tools

my work, but we still need a better

required to build the key relationships

strategy and more collective effort to be

with community businesses and local

inclusive of people with disabilities.”

government that will allow him to

Derek Daniels at the Rehabilitation

multiply his work throughout the

Institute of Chicago (RIC) will be a vital

Philippines.

FROM THE MENTOR’S PERSPECTIVE:

“

At RIC, we’re creating something much bigger than ourselves. I see sport as advocacy and activism. It challenges the idea of what people with disabilities can do on a daily basis. Can JP be the farmer for that same seed in the Philippines? We believe he can.

Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago

source of knowledge and experience

@SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

”

STEPHANIE KANTER

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

67

JP MAUNES

CEO and Founder Philippine Accessible Deaf Services PHILIPPINES

EDUCATION Master of Arts, Medical-Surgical Nursing Candidate

Current

Southwestern University Bachelor of Science, Nursing

FUN FACTS: WHO DO YOU ENJOY SPENDING THE MOST TIME WITH AND WHY?

I enjoy spending time with young deaf people. I do mentoring and enjoy communicating with them in sign language. On my personal time, I spent it with my wife and our 6-monthold baby boy.

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST DREAM?

I would love to set up a school for students with disabilities where I could provide them the highest educational opportunities so they can live independently.

University of San Carlos Associate’s Degree, Health Education

2003

University of San Carlos

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Co-Founder, Executive Director

2005-Present

Philippine Accessible Deaf Services (Gualandi Volunteer Service Programme) Television Sign Language Interpreter

2005-Present

BS-CBN TV Patrol Central Visayas Fellow

2015

Ashoka Philippines Nurse Trainer/Clinical Instructor

2005-2010

St. Paul College Foundation & Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center

WHAT IS YOUR “GREAT ESCAPE” WHEN YOU NEED REST OR PEACE?

I love going outdoors and swimming in the beach!

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2005

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

THE BIG THREE WITH

JP MAUNES PHILIPPINES

THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To learn best practices for inclusivity

3

To apply what I’ve learned to make positive change

To further develop my program

THREE THINGS I WANT MY MENTOR TO KNOW ABOUT ME: I know how to communicate in sign language.

1

I love soccer and basketball.

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON:

Honest Innovative Visionary

Open-Minded Flexible Approachable

Confident Knowledgeable Determined

@SportsEmpower

2

|

#Sport4All |

3

I enjoy lifting weights and working out.

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

69

DEREK DANIELS

Sports and Recreation Manager REHABILITATION INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO

DEREK DANIELS Derek has served

and Recreation. Derek has a bachelor’s

as the manager of sports and fitness

degree in therapeutic recreation

programs for the Rehabilitation

from Michigan State University and a

Institute of Chicago since 2011.

master’s in sports management from

Previously, he was the director of

the United States Sports Academy.

Freeland SportzSone in Michigan

Derek coaches the organization’s sled

from 2009 to 2011 and the recreation

hockey team, the RIC Blackhawks.

superintendent for City of Lapeer Parks

FUN FACTS: HAVE YOU TRAVELED OUTSIDE YOUR HOME COUNTRY? IF SO, WHERE WAS YOUR FAVORITE DESTINATION?

I’ve traveled to Europe and Central America...about 14 countries outside of the USA. One of my favorite experiences was paragliding in the Swiss Alps.

DID YOU INTEND TO PURSUE THE CAREER YOU’RE IN NOW?

I have enjoyed sports my entire life and truly believe that sports are a phenomenal outlet for life.

Everyone deserves a chance to play and experience the joy of a win or the heartbreak of defeat.

Adapting sports simply requires wwcareful thought and execution and the willingness to include everyone.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE DESSERT?

Chocolate ice cream with caramel topping.

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THE BIG THREE WITH

DEREK DANIELS

REHABILITATION INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To learn from my Emerging Leader so I can help him the best way I can

To engage my Emerging Leader in progressive adaptive sports opportunities

3

To renew passion and excitement for original programming

THREE THINGS I WANT MY emerging leader TO KNOW ABOUT ME:

1

I love to travel and explore cultures around the world.

2

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON:

Thoughtful Involved Communicates

Honest Reliable Facilitator

Open to new experiences Curious Connected

I was born into a blue-collar family that instilled the value of hard work.

@SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

3

Finding a new sport is better than getting a birthday present to me.

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

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272 SPORT FOR COMMUNITY

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VALERIA FILIAEVA BELARUS

+

MARY PATSTONE SPAULDING REHABILITATION NETWORK

DR. CHERI BLAUWET

SPAULDING REHABILITATION NETWORK @SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

73

VALERIA FILIAEVA

Producer, Sport Commentator, and Wheelchair Tennis Coach Belarussian State TV and Radio Company, Stringershub BELARUS For VALERIA FILIAEVA, tennis was always a way to connect.

tennis departments for both the Belarusian Tennis

Born in Azerbaijan to a soldier’s family, she grew up with

Federation and the integrated sports rehabilitation

her maternal grandparents in Belarus. At the age of 10,

center Egalite. On top of these responsibilities, Valeria is

she began playing tennis to get closer to her father. Valeria

a tennis commentator for state television and a producer

was so impressive that she traveled to the IMG Academy

for Stringershub, an international network of freelance

Bollettieri Tennis Program in Florida to train and was soon

journalists who provide content for Eastern European

ranked among the Top 30 juniors in the world by the

television broadcasts.

International Tennis Federation (ITF).

In her mind, it is important to treat all her athletes the

By 2008, however, Valeria was ready to give up competitive

same. In the next five years, Valeria hopes to see Belarus

tennis. She was preparing to enroll in the journalism school

with a Paralympic wheelchair tennis team and its players

at Belarusian State University and wanted to transition into

entering into the top international rankings, which she

coaching while she pursued her studies. One day while

knows can only happen if both she and the players are

walking around the tennis courts she was approached by a

unshakable in their determination.

lady who mentioned to her that a group was thinking about launching a wheelchair tennis team.

“One of my students told me that when I come to the courts I never treat them as weak,” Valeria says “I am shouting and

“It was a good way to financially support myself and learn

pushing them. And they appreciate this because they know

to coach, but I had no experience with Paralympic sports

I feel honored for them to be my students. I believe they

before,” Valeria says. “At first, I didn’t know if I wanted

can do anything they want. It doesn’t matter that they are

to take the job. But, I thought about it for a minute and I

in wheelchairs.”

decided, ‘Yes, I will do this.’’’

Even with her enduring attitude, Valeria does have goals

From translating videos and articles from YouTube and

that she believes cannot be achieved without the help of

wheelchair tennis websites at the very beginning, Valeria

a program like GSMP: Sport for Community. She wants to

is now one of the recognized pioneers for the sport in

expand her networks within Belarus and find likeminded

Belarus. At only 24 years old, she heads the wheelchair

individuals working in disability sport that can support each

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other and reach more people. Valeria also seeks vital private sponsorships to support the tennis programs and herself. “I need for someone other than

FROM THE MENTOR’S PERSPECTIVE:

myself to tell me I can do it,” Valeria says. “I need to be pushed because sometimes I have no idea how to proceed. Everyone in Belarus is talking about our economic problems and

Valeria. Alongside Dr. Cheri, a seven-

other situations outside of my control.

time Paralympic medalist who also

And it makes me worry if I’ll be able to

works as a faculty member at Harvard

do this work much longer.”

Medical School, Spaulding’s mentors

Mary Patstone, director of adaptive

will be able to expose Valeria to

sports and recreation, and Dr. Cheri

experts in the fields of advocacy,

Blauwet, attending physician, of

research, workforce development,

Spaulding Rehabilitation Network

and political impact. The vastness

understand the kind of perseverance

of Spaulding’s programming and

that Valeria needs to continue her

partnerships will provide Valeria with

success in Belarus. With more than

the experience she needs to return to

a decade of experience as a director

Belarus rejuvenated and with a strong,

within the nonprofit sector, Mary’s

comprehensive plan for continuing to

experience will be invaluable for

develop wheelchair tennis and other

“

For Spaulding’s patients, sport is the light that helps them get through every day.

Even if it’s just putting a golf club in their room to see if it’s possible. They notice that golf club and find the motivation to pick it up and push through. Sport gives them a chance to ask the questions: ‘if I can do this, maybe I can make it back to my family, my job, and my community?

Spaulding Rehabilitation Center

adaptive sports. @SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

”

MARY PATSTONE

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

75

VALERIA FILIAEVA

Producer, Sport Commentator, and Wheelchair Tennis Coach Belarussian State TV and Radio Company, Stringershub BELARUS

EDUCATION Bachelor’s Degree, Radio and Television Journalism

2013

Belarusian State University

FUN FACTS: DO YOU HAVE ANY BROTHERS OR SISTERS?

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Producer

Stringershub

Yes, I have four brothers and one sister.

Television Commentator

HAVE YOU TRAVELED OUTSIDE YOUR HOME COUNTRY?

Head of Wheelchair Tennis Department

I enjoyed visiting Barcelona and London.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY?

2013-Present

National State Television and Radio Company of the Republic of Belarus 2012-Present

Belarus Tennis Federation Head of Wheelchair Tennis Department Egalite Center Social and Rehabilitation Institution

Anything involving fitness.

WHAT IS YOUR “GREAT ESCAPE”?

I’d love to buy tickets and travel the world.

DID YOU PLAY SPORTS GROWING UP?

Yes, I’ve always loved playing tennis.

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2015-Present

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

2012-2015

THE BIG THREE WITH

VALERIA FILIAEVA BELARUS

THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To learn more about sports for people with disabilities

3

To gain a network of resources I can apply to my work

To meet people from across the world and learn from them

THREE THINGS I WANT MY MENTOR TO KNOW ABOUT ME: I’m enthusiastic and interested in many things but can be shy at times.

1

I have high standards for my work.

2

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

Friendly Disciplined Good Communicator

@SportsEmpower

3

I’m very disciplined.

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON:

Respectful Creative Knowledgeable

|

#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

Happy Curious Confident

77

MARY PATSTONE Director

DR. CHERI BLAUWET

Attenting Physician SPAULDING REHABILITATION NETWORK

MARY PATSTONE has more than

DR. CHERI BLAUWET, MD, is board

20 years’ experience in non-

certified in physical medicine,

profit sector and has served in a

rehabilitation, and sports medicine.

director capacity within Spaulding

She is a graduate of the Stanford

Rehabilitation Network since 2006.

University School of Medicine and

In her current role over adaptive

completed her residency training at

sports and recreation, Mary oversees

Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital/

29 land- and water-based sports and

Harvard Medical School, where she

recreation activities for a wide range of

served as chief resident. Dr. Cheri

patients, including military veterans.

is a seven-time Paralympic medal

Mary received a master’s degree in

winner for the U.S. in wheelchair

philanthropy and development from

racing, as well as a two-time winner

St. Mary’s University of Minnesota

of both the Boston and New York City

and was previously the COO, CDO,

Marathons. She has been nominated

and CFO of the American Red Cross in

for an ESPY Award, the Laureus World

Massachusetts and New Hampshire.

Sports Award, and Women’s Sports Foundation Athlete of the Year. She is the chairperson of the International Paralympic Committee’s Medical Committee.

FUN FACTS: DID YOU GROW UP PLAYING SPORTS? IF SO, WHICH ONES?

Mary: Yes! Alpine skiing, field hockey and dance.

WHO DO YOU ENJOY SPENDING THE MOST TIME WITH AND WHY?

Mary: I love spending time with family, friends and my adaptive sports community cohorts!

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST DREAM?

Mary: Inclusion is not something we need to point out or talk about. It is part of the everyday fabric of our society.

HAVE YOU TRAVELED OUTSIDE OF YOUR HOME COUNTRY? IF SO, WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE DESTINATION?

Mary: Yes! I’ve been to many places, but Vienna, Austria and Bern, Switzerland are on the top of my list.

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THE BIG THREE WITH

MARY PATSTONE & DR. CHERI BLAUWET

SPAULDING REHABILITATION NETWORK THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To aid in the worldwide momentum of inclusive sports initiatives

To use of sport as a communitybuilding tool on an international level.

3

To provide a longterm mentoring relationship

THREE THINGS WE WANT OUR EMERGING LEADER TO KNOW ABOUT us: Mary: I am a hands-on, get dirty adaptive engineer.

1

We believe in the power of sport to connect people across the world.

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON:

Curiosity Eager to Learn Passionate

Shares Knowledge Listens Respected

Independent Inclusive Confident

@SportsEmpower

2

|

#Sport4All |

3

We look forward mentoring our Emerging Leader!

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

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DEEPAK K.C. NEPAL

+

MARY PATSTONE SPAULDING REHABILITATION NETWORK

DR. CHERI BLAUWET

SPAULDING REHABILITATION NETWORK @SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

81

DEEPAK K.C.

Deputy Secretary General National Paralympic Committee of Nepal NEPAL From the SOS Children’s Village where he grew up as a boy to becoming the first wheelchair user in Nepal to graduate with a degree in architectural engineering, DEEPAK K.C.’s life is a story of perseverance and giving back.

In a wheelchair for as long as he can remember, Deepak excelled in Para table tennis from the time he was a teenager and pursued it alongside his professional training in

the Kathmandu Engineering College

architecture. Through sport, he was

at Tribhuvan University in 2007,

able to gain a sense of strength and

Deepak founded the National Physical

purpose that pushed him forward. “I

Disabled Table Tennis Association—

am a great believer in the power of

Nepal, where he is president. Deepak

sport,” Deepak says. “In my school

also currently serves as the deputy

life, sport was one of the ways I could

secretary general of the Nepal

engage with my non-disabled friends

Paralympic Committee and was

regularly visits schools and

to feel included, self-confident, and

appointed to the Athletes Standing

conferences to share his story as

to believe that I am really not that

Committee of the Asian Paralympic

motivation for young people with

different even though I am in a

Committee through 2018.

disabilities to participate in sports.

He also uses his architecture for

wheelchair.”

After completing his bachelor’s degree in architectural engineering from 82

Deepak is focused on grassroots

social good, serving on the board

activities and accessibility. He

of the Global Alliance on Accessible Technologies and Environments and

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

FROM THE MENTOR’S PERSPECTIVE:

“

Mentorship isn’t just important—it’s essential.

Being mentored is what has opened up most of the doors in my life. In any career, you need people who are willing to provide opportunities and guidance along the way. That is what I look to do with Deepak and Valeria, who have already shown their leadership and left their legacy in Nepal and Belarus. I have no doubt their legacy will continue to grow after they leave here.

collaborating with the Institute for Human Centered Design (IHCD), based in Boston, on creating accessible environments in Nepal.

Deepak’s work earned him the 2014 Herman Gmeiner Award for outstanding achievement.

“I want to see how accessibility impacts the rights of people with disabilities in the sports sector,” Deepak says. “I am convinced that sport can be used as a tool for

“

DR. CHERI BLAUWET

advocacy and awareness so that all people, regardless of age, ability, and

sport as a tool for rehabilitation and

gender can enjoy the lives they want

empowerment. Spaulding hosts

as human beings.”

a wide range of adaptive sports

At Spaulding Rehabilitation Network, Deepak will be mentored by Mary Patstone and Dr. Cheri Blauwet, who will provide him with access to some of the top minds using disability

@SportsEmpower

Spaulding Rehabilitation Network

programming at its multiple facilities

Through Dr. Cheri, Deepak will also

and the mentorship team will expose

have access to Eli Wolff of the Inclusive

Deepak to the best practices, training

Sports Initiative at the ICHD, where he

knowledge, and networks he needs

can continue developing his work in

in order to continue serving as an

accessibility.

advocate and pioneer in Nepal. |

#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

83

DEEPAK K.C.

Deputy Secretary General National Paralympic Committee of Nepal NEPAL

EDUCATION Bachelor’s Degree, Architectural Engineering

2007

Tribhuvan University of Nepal, Kathmandu Engineering College Architectural Engineering Diploma

FUN FACTS: DO YOU HAVE ANY BROTHERS OR SISTERS?

I have three sisters, but I grew up in SOS Children’s Village since I was 8 years old where I found many brother and sisters like me!

WHO DO YOU ENJOY SPENDING THE MOST TIME WITH AND WHY?

I really like spending time with my college friends because we spent more than 5 years together and made so many memories. It is always fun to remember them and laugh together.

Tribhuvan University of Nepal, Institute of Engineering

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Athletes Standing Committee Member

2015-Present

Asian Paralympic Committee Deputy Secretary General

2014-Present

National Paralympic Committee of Nepal Board of Directors

2014-Present

Global Alliance on Accessible Technologies and Environments (GAATES) Founder, President

2010-Present

Nepal Physical Disabled Table Tennis Association Freelance Architect

WHAT DO YOU WANT YOUR LEGACY TO BE?

I would like to be remembered as an architect who used the power of sport to promote accessibility.

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1998-Present

THE BIG THREE WITH

DEEPAK K.C. NEPAL

THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

3

To make strong connections with leaders in the field

To improve management and business skills

To gain a network of support for future collaborations

THREE THINGS I WANT MY MENTOR TO KNOW ABOUT ME: I like thinking creatively but also like having a schedule.

1

I learn best by doing.

2

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

Committed Energetic Driven

@SportsEmpower

Invested Knowledgeable Empowering

|

#Sport4All |

3

I’m excited to expand my network and learn new ideas.

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON: Confident Insightful Good Communicator

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

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YERLAN SULEIMENOV KAZAKHSTAN

+

JOHN REGISTER USOC

@SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

87

YERLAN SULEIMENOV

Executive Director National Paralympic Committee of Kasakhstan KAZAKHSTAN YERLAN SULEIMENOV was born

In 2003, Yerlan completed a Master of

language to a person with a disability.

to a close-knit family in Astana,

Laws degree at Kazakhstan’s largest

I know their problems. I understand

Kazakhstan’s capital city. With his older

university, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian

their pain, what they need, and what

brother, he practiced sports, especially

National University. During four years

kind of support I can give them.”

martial arts. The two were so close that

as a senior lecturer, he worked on a

they even launched a small business

number of projects in collaboration

together as teenagers, which Yerlan

with international organizations

says quickly helped them realize “we

such as UNICEF, UNESCO, and the UN

were not businesspeople at all.”

Refugee Agency (UNCHR). Afterward,

With one career choice out of the way, Yerlan decided to become a lawyer so he could defend and uphold human rights in Kazakhstan and abroad. At the age of 19, however, he became

he transitioned into working with SOS Children’s Villages Kazakhstan, an international NGO that focuses on children’s rights. In seven years he rose to become deputy national director.

Unlike in many other countries, Kazakhstan’s NPC is neither government-financed, nor the top disability organization in the country.

Officially, it is an NGO that works in collaboration with other Parasport federations and does not have its own athletes and coaches. As a result, it is very important for Yerlan to secure financial and structural support

unexpectedly ill with bone cancer

Last year, the opportunity came for

from the Ministry of Sport, as well

and was forced to have one of his legs

Yerlan to become executive director of

as sponsorships and donations from

amputated.

the National Paralympic Committee

private businesses.

“My world ended when I became ill and lost my leg,” Yerlan says. “But, then my mother, brother and all of the people close to me came and showed me I could live even without a leg.

That opened up my eyes and I knew that I wanted to help people with disabilities become champions.”

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of Kazakhstan. “Because of my professional experience, I knew how you must speak to people from the different government ministries, businesses, and sponsors to show them that it is not easy for a person in a wheelchair to become a champion,” Yerlan says. “And I can also speak the

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

“The Paralympic movement is not only about rehabilitation of disabled people, it is about the image of Kazakhstan,” Yerlan says. “If we do not receive more support, the NPC will have to close its doors and we will not be able to represent our country in international competition.”

FROM THE MENTOR’S PERSPECTIVE:

“

When I was chosen to mentor, I thought to myself: ‘What could I possibly teach these individuals?’ I feel like I could be mentored by them. This is a great opportunity for us to partner together, to foster new relationships between our countries.

I’m here to listen and to be a servant-leader to meet any of their needs.

For his mentorship, Yerlan travels to Colorado Springs, home of the U.S. Olympic Committee and more than a dozen other national sports associations. Like in Kazakhstan, the USOC is a non-profit, of which U.S. Paralympics is a division. Throughout its history, the organization has been very successful in fundraising and securing corporate sponsorships for its many programs.

”

field in Uzbekistan in March 2016,

John Register, a two-time Paralympian

USOC

influencers inside the USOC, as well

and noted motivational speaker,

as guide him through developing

oversees community and veterans

relationships with media, community

programs for U.S. Paralympics and

partners, and potential donors.

has a long resume of experience in

Together, the two men will come up

program development, networking,

with a plan that allows Yerlan to return

and communications. John, who also

to Kazakhstan and create a sustainable

served as a Sports Envoy for track and

@SportsEmpower

DOUG GARNER

will be able to connect Yerlan with key

|

#Sport4All |

platform that will guarantees athletes with disabilities achieve success for the country at elite international competitions like the Paralympics.

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YERLAN SULEIMENOV

Executive Director National Paralympic Committee of Kasakhstan KAZAKHSTAN

EDUCATION Master of Business Administration

2016-Present

Almaty Management University Master of Laws, Science of Law

FUN FACTS: WHO DO YOU ENJOY SPENDING THE MOST TIME WITH AND WHY?

I enjoy spending time with my daughter, wife,and mother. But if I have free time, I also enjoy tranquillity and having some time alone.

L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Executive Director

2015-Present

National Paralympic Committee of Kazakhstan Deputy National Director

2014-2015

SOS Children’s Villages Kazakhstan National Programme Development Director

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST DREAM?

To spend my life in a way that my children are proud of me.

WHO HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST MENTOR?

My former Director at my previous job. He was like father to me. We could discuss openly and honestly many issues, his doors were allways open for everyone, and we had mutual trust.

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2003

2011-2014

SOS Children’s Villages Kazakhstan National Youth Care Coordinator

2008-2011

SOS Children’s Villages Kazakhstan Deputy Director of Centre of Foreign Affairs

2007-2008

KAZGUU University (Kazakh University of Humanities and Law) Instructor and Senior Lecturer L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University

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2003-2007

THE BIG THREE WITH

YERLAN SULEIMENOV KAZAKHSTAN

THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To learn more about the Paralympic movement

3

To connect with like-minded people from across the world

To build strong relationships for future projects

THREE THINGS I WANT MY MENTOR TO KNOW ABOUT ME:

1

I cannot walk long distances because of my leg prosthesis.

2

I like karaoke and play the guitar.

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON:

I haven’t played many sports, but I’d like to start!

Visionary Creative Convincing

@SportsEmpower

3

Simplifies Shares Experiences Passionate

|

#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

Equipped Creative Dedicated

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JOHN REGISTER Executive Director USOC

JOHN REGISTER John Register is

on Foreign Policy Issues regarding

a two-time Paralympian, U.S. Army

disability. He continued to serve in

veteran, professional speaker, and

this capacity under Secretary Hillary

director of veterans and community

Clinton. In addition to his professional

programs for U.S. Paralympics and the

achievements and advocacy work,

U.S. Olympic Committee. In 2007, he

John was a four-time All-American

was appointed by Secretary of State

in track and field at the University

Condoleezza Rice as one of eight

of Arkansas, where he completed a

members to advise the Secretary

bachelor’s degree in communications.

FUN FACTS: DID YOU PLAY SPORTS GROWING UP?

Yes, I played baseball, football (American), and track and field.

WHO DO YOU ENJOY SPENDING THE MOST TIME WITH AND WHY?

My daughter Ashley who’s 19 because these years are precious.

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST DREAM?

I would love to create a heightened value for people with disabilities in the general public and for them to be honored, valued, and respected as anyone else.

HAVE YOU TRAVELED OUTSIDE YOUR HOME COUNTRY? IF SO, WHERE WAS YOUR FAVORITE DESTINATION?

I have travelled extensively. But my favorite city is still sweet home Chicago!

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THE BIG THREE WITH

JOHN REGISTER USOC

THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To expand my network and build strong relationships

To learn more about the Paralympic Movement

3

To provide my Emerging Leaders a great experience

THREE THINGS I WANT MY EMERGING LEADERS TO KNOW ABOUT ME: I enjoy hosting and look forward to mentoring.

1

I love all types of music.

2

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

Passionate Driven Growth-Minded

@SportsEmpower

Listens Curious Available

|

#Sport4All |

3

I believe in creating “new normals.”

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON: Independent Progressive Flexible

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

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294 SPORT FOR COMMUNITY

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NJOMZA EMINI KOSOVO

+

JOHN REGISTER USOC

@SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

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NJOMZA EMINI

President National Paralympic Committee of Kosovo KOSOVO Sports were never a big priority in NJOMZA EMINI’S

we have many athletes and women with disabilities in

family. Raised in Kosovo’s capital and largest city, Pristina

our country. I work hard so that we can involve them in

(then a part of Serbia), Njomza grew up as the sixth-born of

decision-making.”

eight siblings. Her brother practiced judo for a short time, but her parents pulled him fearing their only son might get injured.

Paralympics is still a new concept in Kosovo, but with the support of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, as well as private sponsors, Njomza is working to organize sports

Instead of sports, Njomza was on the pathway to politics.

events and activities to engage the disability community

While completing a bachelor’s degree in social work

and promote adaptive sports. The KPC, which recently

from the University of Pristina, she worked for several

applied for membership to the International Paralympic

years in the human rights sector focusing on the rights of

Committee, will host a three-day Mini-Paralympics in June

women, youth, and disabled people. After five months as a

2016 with more than 500 participants from 25 cities. It is

researcher and coordinator for the NGO Handicap Kosovo,

Njomza’s vision that this will continue to give exposure to

she joined the New Kosovo Alliance political party and by

rising athletes and push for greater inclusion of disabled

2008 was elected as the youngest Parliamentarian in the

people in communities that still hold stigmas.

country.

“A disability can happen to anyone,” Njomza says. “If I

Njomza continues to serve in Parliament as the head of the

get into an accident while driving, I can have a disability.

Committee on Health, Labour and Social Welfare. But, in

We cannot ignore people with disabilities or be ashamed

2011, she was also appointed as president of the Kosovo

of them. We want them to be successful and to bring

Paralympic Committee, making her the only woman in

recognition back to Kosovo when they compete at the

Kosovo working in a sports leadership role.

international level.”

“I was very surprised when I got the job because I’m not

John Register, associate director of community and

an athlete,” Njomza says. “When I go to meetings I am

veterans programs for U.S. Paralympics (a division of the

the only woman, which is very challenging. But they knew

U.S. Olympic Committee), understands Njomza’s position

I had experience helping people with disabilities and

and motivation for creating a platform for elite-level

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FROM THE MENTOR’S PERSPECTIVE:

“

I am John first. I am a father, coach, speaker, and

athletes with disabilities. John had

many other things. I have

a serious injury while training in

a disability. My disability

the U.S. Army’s World Class Athlete

doesn’t define me or

program and had to have his left leg amputated above the knee. However,

anyone else. We all have

he came back from the injury to compete in two Paralympic Games

talent in us and we must

and launched a highly successful

take action steps to foster

career as a motivational speaker and

inclusion, accessibility, and

program developer. John will expose

change attitudes. I see

Njomza to life at one of the most successful Olympic committees in the

Yerlan and Njomza working

world and provide her with the tools

to accomplish those goals

to improve the quality of disability sport in Kosovo, collaborate with

return to her country with clear ideas

sponsors and other sports federations,

as to how she can elevate Paralympic

and develop programs that include

sports and help her athletes reach

more women and youth. Through this

the podium in order to inspire

mentorship experience, Njomza will

generations of young Kosovars.

@SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

”

in their countries when they return.

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JOHN REGISTER USOC

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NJOMZA EMINI

President National Paralympic Committee of Kosovo KOSOVO

EDUCATION Master’s Degree, Protocol and Diplomacy

Present

International School of Protocol and Diplomacy in Brussels Master’s Degree, Social Work

FUN FACTS: DO YOU HAVE ANY BROTHERS OR SISTERS?

Yes, I come from a big family. I have 7 sisters and 1 brother.

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST DREAM?

My dream is to build a world where women can live with dignity and be respected for who they are.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SUBJECT IN SCHOOL AND WHY?

2016

University of Tirana Bachelor’s Degree, Sociology

2007

University of Pristina

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS President

2011-Present

Kosovo Paralympics Committee Parliamentarian

2011-Present

Roles: First Vice Chairperson on Committee of Health, Labour, Social Welfare Assembly of Kosovo Parliamentarian

2007-2010

I loved literature and sociology. I could travel the world through words and could learn about humanity each day.

Roles: Head of European Integration Group, Vice Chairperson of Youth

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY?

Handicap Kosovo

Swimming!

Forum, Chairman in the Second Branch of Women’s Forum Assembly of Kosovo Researcher and Coordinator

Researcher and Coordinator Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Department of Youth

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GlobalSportsMentoring.org

2005-2006

2004

THE BIG THREE WITH

NJOMZA EMINI KOSOVO

THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To gain new and deeper perspectives in disability sports

3

To develop a program that increases opportunities for women

To learn from professionals in the field

THREE THINGS I WANT MY MENTOR TO KNOW ABOUT ME: I’m passionate about creating opportunities for people with disabilities.

1

I’m eager to apply what I learn to my experiences in Kosovo.

2

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

Eager Receptive Connected

Guides Shares Experiences Knowledgeable

@SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

3

I believe all people should have equal rights.

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON: Humility Courage Optimism

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

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2100 SPORT FOR COMMUNITY

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AGWANG ANGELLA CHRISTINE UGANDA

+

DR. MARGARET STRAN

UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA

MIKE MUSHETT TURNSTONE

@SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

101

AGWANG ANGELLA CHRISTINE Lecturer Kyambogo University UGANDA CHRISTINE ANGELLA AGWANG was born into a very large family in Uganda. From a young age, she competed with nine brothers and sisters in tribal games. The competitions made her strong and determined, even though she never pursued more formal sports.

But her passion for play was reawakened at Kyambogo University, where she completed a bachelor’s degree in community based rehabilitation in 2010. One year

disability, she is stunned by the lack of

Aside from her role in the university,

prior to finishing her degree, a

integration and inclusion of persons

Agwang is a member of the Uganda

professor in the department passed

with disabilities in Kampala and

Blind Sports Association and coaches

away and the opportunity came up

throughout Uganda.

a national disability sports team.

for Agwang to take his position as a part-time lecturer. Now she teaches more than 700 students yearly about disability sport, heads the mobility and rehabilitation section of the Department of Community and Disability Studies, and is on path to complete her master’s degree in human rights at the end of 2016.

Although Agwang does not have a

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“People are discriminated against and left out, when everybody has the right to participate in sports as a recreational activity,” Agwang says. “I care about social justice. And I believe that if we have the right people in place to train athletes with disabilities and guide them they will perform and realize their best.”

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As Kyambogo University is the only higher education institution in Uganda with a focus on disability sports, she is determined to increase her knowledge about disability and community mobilization because she knows a key role is reserved for her in bringing education to communities about the importance of health and physical activity for all people.

“Sports exposes you to different

academia matches up perfectly with

friends, different cultures, and is

Agwang’s ambitions.

important for staying in good health,”

After one week in Alabama, Agwang

Agwang says. “When people see

travels a few hours north to be

persons with disabilities participate

mentored by Mike Mushett, chief

in sports tournaments they think it’s

executive officer of Turnstone, an

a myth. The whole community comes

organization that is at the top of

out to see a blind person compete.

the disability sports field. With

That brings me a great joy. I want this

comprehensive programs that

to keep growing.”

mix therapy, health and wellness,

Agwang has the opportunity to be

inclusion, recreation, and high-

mentored at two different sites:

performance sports competition,

the University of Alabama and

Turnstone sponsors three wheelchair

Turnstone. In Alabama, she will spend

basketball teams and has strong

time with Margaret Stran, Ph.D.,

programs in sled hockey, power

associate director for the UA Adapted

soccer, and goalball. Agwang and Mike

Athletics Department. Dr. Margaret

are both on a quest for knowledge,

has spent more than 20 years as an

connected by their commitment to

elite-level wheelchair basketball

empowering people with disabilities

player and coach for Team USA,

through sports, which will lead to a

winning five medals and six national

relationship that blossoms before,

championships, and her experience in

during, and after the mentorship.

FROM THE MENTOR’S PERSPECTIVE:

“

We are excited to host Christine because of her work to promote disability sport throughout Uganda.

We are excited share our knowledge with her but know we will learn just as much from her.

how disability sports functions within

@SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

”

DR. MARGARET STRAN University of Alabama

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AGWANG ANGELLA CHRISTINE

Lecturer Kyambogo University UGANDA

EDUCATION Master’s Degree, Human Rights

2016

Uganda Martyrs University Bachelor’s Degree, Community Based Rehabilitation

FUN FACTS: DID YOU PLAY SPORTS GROWING UP? IF SO, WHICH ONES?

Yes, in the community, I took part in several local games such as skipping, hide and seek, running, and frog jumping. When i joined school, I participated in athletics, netball, and jumps.

WHO DO YOU ENJOY SPENDING THE MOST TIME WITH AND WHY?

My husband. I simply love being in his company. He also mentors me in a lot of things because we have a common professional background.

Kyambogo University

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Disability Sports Point Person

2011-Present

Department of Community & Disability Studies Kyambogo University Lecturer

2009-Present

Department of Community & Disability Studies Kyambogo University Mobility Instructor Department of Community & Disability Studies Kyambogo University

IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE AND WHY?

Sky blue. I just love it.

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2010

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

2007-2009

THE BIG THREE WITH

AGWANG ANGELLA CHRISTINE UGANDA

THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To become a champion and role model for inclusive sports

3

To develop skills in program organization

To learn about promotional strategies

THREE THINGS I WANT MY MENTOR TO KNOW ABOUT ME: I am openminded and willing to learn.

1

I’m selfmotivated but like individual instruction.

2

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

Passionate Good Communicator Resourceful

@SportsEmpower

Experienced Mindful Good Communicator

|

#Sport4All |

3

I’m passionate about disability rights.

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON: Confident Influential Advocate

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

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DR. MARGARET STRAN

Associate Director of Adapted Athletics UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA

MIKE MUSHETT

DR. MARGARET STRAN loves

MIKE MUSHETT has a distinguished

pursuing her passions through work.

career that includes more than 30

As Associate Director of the Adapted

years organizing and implementing

Athletics program at the University of

Paralympic and adaptive sport,

Alabama, she has created a community

recreation and health and wellness

of people with ambulatory disabilities

programs at the community, national

who connect and grow through elite

and international levels. He has a

sport, including wheelchair basketball

unique skill set developed collectively

and wheelchair tennis. She also works

through employment in the sport,

to improve and expand the recreation

nonprofit, government, and university

opportunities for all students and staff

sectors. Additionally, over the course

with disabilities on campus through

of his career, Mike has developed a

rowing, track, and golf and teaches

comprehensive network of experts

classes focused on disability and sport.

he can call upon to address unique

Additionally, Dr. Margaret writes

technical requirements for providing

grants to expand the program’s impact

services to and empowering people

and was awarded a grant from the

with disabilities. Mike has held senior

Craig H. Neilsen Foundation that

leadership positions for organizations

allowed her to purchase inclusive

such as Turnstone, the United States

cardio equipment.

Olympic Committee, Wheelchair &

Dr. Margaret has been at the University of Alabama since 2003. She completed her Ph.D. there in 2007.

She is also a two-time graduate of the University of Illinois-Champaign.

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Ambulatory Sports USA, BlazeSports America, Georgia State University, the Atlanta Paralympic Organizing Committee, the City of Westland, Michigan, and the United States Cerebral Palsy Athletic Association.

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

CEO TURNSTONE

FUN FACTS: DID YOU PLAY SPORTS GROWING UP? IF SO, WHICH ONES?

Margaret: Yes, I played everything growing up, including cross country, soccer, softball, basketball, track, volleyball, dance team, swimming, tennis, and golf. I still occasionally play wheelchair basketball and wheelchair tennis.

WHO DO YOU ENJOY SPENDING THE MOST TIME WITH AND WHY?

Margaret: My husband and son.

They are fun to be with!

DO YOU HAVE ANY PETS? IF SO, WHAT KIND AND WHAT ARE THEIR NAMES?

Margaret: I have 2 dogs named Lucy and Sloan, 1 cat named Quazi, 1 horse named Ricky, and 4 fish.

WHAT IS YOUR “GREAT ESCAPE”?

Margaret: Reading a good book.

THE BIG THREE WITH

DR. MARGARET STRAN UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA

THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To create a relationship that will continue after they return home

To help my Emerging Leader develop a solid action plan

3

To learn from my Emerging Leader so we can improve our program

THREE THINGS I WANT MY EMERGING LEADER TO KNOW ABOUT ME: I love what I do!

1

I am excited about sharing what I know and learning from them.

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON:

Role model Good listener Open to new ideas

Role model Good listener Open to new ideas

Empowers others Creates change Balanced

@SportsEmpower

2

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#Sport4All |

3

Our entire staff is excited to provide a great experience.

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

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2108 SPORT FOR COMMUNITY

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

ALEMAYEHU TEFERI

ETHIOPIA

EYASU HAILU

ETHIOPIA

+

DOUGLAS GARNER

UNIVERSITY OF TEXASARLINGTON @SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

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ALEMAYEHU TEFERI

President; Ethopian Deaf Sports Federation ETHIOPIA

EYASU HAILU TAMENE

Program Coordinator; Sign Language and Deaf Culture Program Unit ETHIOPIA

In sports, teamwork can sometimes

with disabilities, such as the Ethiopian

Ministry of Ethiopia. In 2008, they

make all the difference. ALEMAYEHU

National Association of the Deaf

developed the Deaf Development

AND EYASU take that lesson into their

(1997-2005, 2011-2014), Ethiopian

and Information Association (DDIA) to

everyday lives as two of Ethiopia’s

Federation of People with Disabilities

support deaf inclusion and improve

chief advocates for the disability

(2002-2005), and the Federation of

the community’s access to vital

community.

Ethiopian National Associations of

information, training and livelihood

Persons with Disabilities (2009-2014).

opportunities.

together for over 10 years in the area

Along the way, Alemayehu met

Now, Alemayehu and Eyasu turn

of deaf education, sign language, and

Eyasu, a university professor and sign

their attention to developing sports

deaf community mobilization,” Eyasu

language and deaf communication

for people with disabilities. Through

says. “And I can see that he is a leader

expert who is 11 years his junior. Eyasu

their work they hope to increase

of the community in Ethiopia. If you

has traveled throughout the world to

participation of young people in

were to ask any ordinary person in

participate in workshops and trainings

recreational sports, and to include

Ethiopia about the deaf community

on sign language deaf education

more deaf Ethiopian athletes in elite

they would all reference Alemayehu.”

and recently earned his Ph.D. in

international competitions like the

sociolinguistics of Ethiopian Sign

Deaflympics. Although their primary

Language from Addis Ababa University.

focus is in deaf sports, Alemayehu

“Alemayehu and I have been working

The elder Alemayehu is trained as an economist and received a master’s

and Eyasu also seek opportunities

degree in the subject from the

The two men collaborate frequently.

University of Botswana in 2007. Since

With Addis Ababa University and the

1990, he has worked for the Central

National Association of the Deaf ,

Statistical Agency of Ethiopia. Around

they founded Ethiopia’s first B.A. in

the same time he began his advocacy

sign language and deaf culture. They

“Sport is important for many things,

work, which has included positions as

also launched the Ethiopian Deaf

especially for social interaction of

the chairman or president of several

Sport Federation through the active

people from different backgrounds,”

important associations for people

support of the Federal Youth and Sport

Eyasu says. “The rich and the poor, the

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to support the greater Paralympic movement and work with all people from different disability backgrounds.

FROM THE MENTOR’S PERSPECTIVE:

“

I am excited by the opportunity to learn

majority and minority, the educated

dedicated his life to advocating for the

and under-educated, men and women

rights and inclusion of young athletes

can all be brought together through

with disabilities. Douglas Garner,

sports.”

assistant director of campus recreation and head coach for the men’s and

“There is talent in our country, but

women’s wheelchair basketball teams

they don’t have the resources they

was named a 2015 Champion of

need to be successful,” Alemayehu

Change by The White House for his

adds. “There are no specialized

work as a disability advocate. With

trainers and a lack of knowledge in sports management. As a leader, I feel responsible for getting the materials and building networks with sports

the ideas we’re sharing can go back to Ethiopia and transform some of its organizations. The personalities and spirit of Alemayehu and Eyasu

30 years of experience as a coach

are great to be around.

and educator, Doug will provide

Their appreciation for this

Eyasu and Alemayehu with training

opportunity rubs off on

resources and best practices in sports

organizations in places like the U.S.

and the possibility that

management that will be vital for

us at UTA. It forces us to

developing disability sport in Ethiopia.

re-evaluate how much

The relationship the three men will

we appreciate everything

At the University of Texas-Arlington,

form will also serve as a key point of

we’ve been given.

Alemayehu and Eyasu will have

contact and networking for Alemayehu

access to one of the most successful

and Eyasu.

and Russia, which are at a higher level in deaf sports.”

University of Texas-Arlington

programs in collegiate disability sport, as well as a mentor who has

@SportsEmpower

”

DOUG GARNER

|

#Sport4All |

facebook.com/GlobalSportsMentoringProgram

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ALEMAYEHU TEFERI

President; Ethopian Deaf Sports Federation ETHIOPIA

EYASU HAILU TAMENE

Program Coordinator; Sign Language and Deaf Culture Program Unit ETHIOPIA

EDUCATION: ALEMAYEHU FUN FACTS: WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST DREAM?

Eyasu: I would love to stablish an academic and sport institution that engages a large majority of deaf people.

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST DREAM?

Alemayehu: To see empowered deaf people in every social and economic activity, especially in rural areas where they are usually forgotten.

Master of Arts, Economics

2007

University of Botswana

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS: ALEMAYEHU Founding Member and President

2008-Present

Deaf Development and Information Association (DDIA) Director of Household Surveys and Price Statistics

1990-Present

Previously: Senior Economic Statistician, Prices and Price Indices Team Leader Central Statistical Agency of Ethiopia

EDUCATION: EYASU Ph.D., Sociolinguistics of Ethiopian Sign Language

WHAT IS YOUR “GREAT ESCAPE” WHEN YOU NEED REST/PEACE?

Eyasu: Walking long distances, hiking into the mountains, and going to the church.

DO YOU HAVE ANY BROTHERS OR SISTERS?

Alemayehu: Yes, 4 brothers and 4 sisters. I am the first born of all of them.

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2015

Addis Ababa University

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS: EYASU Board Member and Vice Chair

2013-Present

Rehabilitation Services for the Deaf Association (RSDA) Board Member and Vice Chair

2010-Present

Deaf Development and Information Association (DDIA) Lecturer and Program Coordinator

2007-Present

Ethiopian Sign Language and Deaf Culture, Addis Ababa University

GlobalSportsMentoring.org

THE BIG THREE WITH

ALEMAYEHU TEFERI & EYASU HAILU TAMENE ETHIOPIA

THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To gain new skills from experts in the field

3

To further develop a deaf sports program for Ethiopia

To connect to a global sports community

THREE THINGS I WANT MY MENTOR TO KNOW ABOUT ME: Eyasu: I am enthusiastic to create change.

1

Alemayehu: I tend to be shy.

2

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

Driven Dedicated Resourceful

@SportsEmpower

Experienced Values Others Gives Feedback

|

#Sport4All |

3

Eyasu: I have worked in Deaf education for 10 years.

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON: Confident Optimistic Decisive

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113

DOUG GARNER

Assistant Director of Campus Recreation for Adapted Sports UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS-ARLINGTON

DOUG GARNER is the Head Coach for

while also owning and operating a

the UTA Movin’ Mavs and Asst. Director

youth fitness facility and gymnastics

of Campus Recreation for Adapted

training center. He has written several

Sports and Recreation. He has a

articles for different publications about

Master’s Degree in Behavioral Science

the benefits of sport participation

and a Master’s Degree in Education

for students with disabilities and

(Curriculum and Instruction) Doug

Wheelchair Basketball. In 2015 Doug

served 15 years as Commissioner for

was recognized by the White House

the National Wheelchair Basketball

as a Champion of Change in Higher

Association Junior Division developing

Education for his work advocating for

programs around the country and as

sport and recreation opportunities for

an International Wheelchair Basketball

students with disabilities. He and his

Classifier for the International

wife, Becky, have two sons. Tyler is

Wheelchair Basketball Federation. He

former wheelchair basketball player

has also served as an advisor for the

at UTA and graduated with his M.S.

USA Men’s and Women’s Paralympic

in Exercise Science.He is currently

teams and National Junior Teams since

serving as a clinical Asst. Professor

2005. He also served as the Head

in the Kinesiology Department and

Coach for the USA Under 20 Team that

working on his Ph.D. in Exercise

won Gold Medals in 2001 and 2003

Science. Mike is graduate of Wichita

at the Australian National Games for

State in Wichita, KS with his degree

the Disabled. He was an Assistant

in Entrepreneurship and works as

Coach for the USA Men’s U-23 Team

an Assistant General Manager for

in 2013. Doug taught Psychology

Abuello’s Restaurants.

and Sociology at a Junior College in Hot Springs, Arkansas for 15 years

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GlobalSportsMentoring.org

FUN FACTS: DO YOU HAVE ANY SIBLINGS?

Yes, I have one older brother and one younger brother. I’m the middle child!

WHO DO YOU ENJOY SPENDING THE MOST TIME WITH AND WHY?

Family because when you are with them you can relax, be yourself and spend time with others who share experiences and values.

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST DREAM?

To one day be able to look back and say “I made a difference in my world.”

WHO HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST MENTOR?

All of the people who have opened doors for me and given me opportunities to grow, make mistakes and learn from those mistakes.

THE BIG THREE WITH

DOUG GARNER

UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS-ARLINGTON THREE GOALS FOR THE SPORT FOR COMMUNITY PROGRAM:

1

2

To help my Emerging Leaders understand creative processes

To help my Emerging Leaders expand their knowledge

3

To help my Emerging Leaders grow personally and professionally

THREE THINGS I WANT MY EMERGING LEADERS TO KNOW ABOUT ME:

1

I have a wide range of academic interests and experiences.

2

QUALITIES of a great EMERGING LEADER:

QUALITIES of a GREAT MENTOR:

I am passionate about helping others understand and reach their potential.

Good communicator Insightful Patient

Confidence Thoughtful Passionate

@SportsEmpower

|

#Sport4All |

3

I have been married for 33 years and have two sons ages 29 and 30.

QUALITIES of an EMPOWERED PERSON: Confident Wise Self-Aware

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AN INITIATIVE OF THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE