Sierra Leone’s Paralympian athlete champions rights of people living with disabilities
Sierra Leone’s first ever table tennis paralympian athlete – George Wyndham, is bringing to the forefront disability issues on a global platform, as he sets forth to represent the country’s paralympic Table Tennis Division in this year’s games.
With financial support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the 23 year-old debutant has left the shores of Sierra Leone on August 30 for the Rio events scheduled to start, September 7.
UNDP in partnership with local charity, One Family People (OFP), focuses on closing the gap of inequality experienced by people living with disabilities in Sierra Leone. The participation of George in this year’s paralympic games will promote equal opportunities for people with disabilities on a global level.
George who has expressed interest in educating the public on the rights of disabled persons, will be collaborating with UNDP in its upcoming media sensitization campaign when he returns. Noting its importance in advancing the living standards and inclusion of the disabled community, George said, ‘I am happy to work with UNDP in advocating for our rights [people with disabilities] and showcasing the potential of those with disabilities’.
UNDP Inclusive Growth Cluster Team Leader Ghulam Sherani, reiterated the inspirational role of George, stating the athlete was a, ‘true hero and role model’, with UNDP expecting his participation in the games to be a big boost of encouragement to those living with disabilities in Sierra Leone.
UNDP has over the years endeavored to support and improve the lives of the poorest and most vulnerable in society, working with the Government of Sierra Leone, development partners and civil society organizations in livelihood protection and empowerment.
UNDP, Freetown, Sierra Leone
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