Refugee Paralympic team to shine in Paris as ‘inspiration to us all’

His views were shared by Andrew Parsons, President of the International Paralympic Committee, who described the team as “One of the great stories of the Paris 2024 ParalympicsEach of these athletes has overcome many difficulties to achieve the results they have today and each has a compelling message to share with the world.”

Representing more than 120 million displaced people worldwide, eight athletes and two running guides have made up the largest ever Refugee Paralympic Team, after the team debuted at the Rio 2016 Paralympics with just two athletes.

Eight refugees are hosted in six countries and will compete in six sports – Para-athletics, Para-weightlifting, Para-table tennis, Para-taekwondo, Para-triathlon and Wheelchair fencing.

Choose the team flag bearer

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) announced on Sunday that T11 Paralympic sprinter Guillaume Junior Atangana will be the flag bearer for the Refugee Paralympic Team at the Opening Ceremony on Wednesday.

When he was a the boy is growing up In West Africa, Atangana’s only ambition was to become the world’s greatest soccer player. But at the age of eight, his eyesight began to fail, and by the age of 12, he had lost it completely.

Switching to Para athletics and sprinting, he was able to regain his confidence and love for the sport. He finished fourth in the 400m T11 at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, just missing out on a medal.

Speaking about being chosen as the flag bearer, Mr. Atangana said, “I am very emotional and happy. It gives me chills. I can picture it in my mind. I see myself as a great champion who has made his dream come true.”

Hope in adversity

Globally, it is estimated that at least 18 million people with disabilities have been forced from their homes due to war, conflict, violence and human rights violations.

Many face increased risks of violence, discrimination, exploitation and abuse, as well as barriers to accessing vital support, assistance, education, sport and livelihood opportunities.

In such a difficult context, the 2024 Refugee Paralympic Team represents “an important message of hope to millions of refugees around the world, and indeed all of us,” said Grandi.

‘This remarkable team reminds us of the importance of people with disabilities having the opportunity to participate fully. in society equally,” he added.