World Down Syndrome Day

My name is Sheikha Al Qasimi, I am 22 years old, I practice martial arts, and I hold a black belt in Karate. I live in Sharjah. I am a sister, daughter and granddaughter.

I also have a case of Down syndrome.

These few words sum up my condition, but they do not define my character. It is part of my life, but it is not a barrier to my life and my ability to achieve my dreams, overcome my fears, or prevent me from living my life to the fullest.

During the past two weeks, my country has received more than 7500 athletes, sons, daughters, mothers and fathers, to participate in the Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019.

Each of these athletes has demonstrated a tremendous ability to choose the sports in which they participate. Some of them managed to excel and achieve victories, while others did not reach advanced stages, but what is certain is that each of them managed to achieve their dreams by representing their friends, family and country in a world-class event.

And every one of them is an athlete with mental challenges.

Special Olympics has proven time and time again, since its establishment 50 years ago, that the presence of these challenges does not limit what a person can achieve, nor does it limit his capabilities and competencies.

This was confirmed by the stadiums, swimming pools and various sites that witnessed competitions in all games within the Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019 for a whole week.

As an Emirati athlete, I am happy to be part of the World Games hosted by Abu Dhabi.

This event in Abu Dhabi represented an amazing opportunity for the UAE to shed light on the great strides it has taken towards achieving solidarity and solidarity for people of determination like me in the local community, and in all components of this society in the Emirates.

And quickly, the notion that always surrounded people with mental challenges is a thing of the past. Everyone in the UAE is working to change their attitudes and ideas.

People of determination and people with Down Syndrome have a very important role to play in the Emirati society, and they are now standing side by side with their fellow members of the community.

Existing barriers have been broken down by solidarity that includes schools, universities, businesses, and even homes across the country.

The wise leadership of the United Arab Emirates has also affirmed its full commitment to building a solidarity and cohesive society that guarantees each individual the widest long-term benefit.

By presenting the finest examples that emphasize the commitment to achieving the goals of solidarity, our wise leadership inspires the entire country.

I myself provide a true example of the benefit we derive from solidarity and not turning a disability into an excuse to abandon or isolate people of determination, whether in education or during their daily lives.

As a graduate of Sharjah English School and International School of Arts and Sciences in Dubai, I spent my school years alongside classmates who were not mentally challenged.

I never happened to be aloof or study alone, but I was always welcome among my fellow students in the classroom, who became my friends.

I was influenced during education, and my character developed and grew to a large extent thanks to being among people of different nationalities, ages and abilities as well as of course.

I like to think that my classmates have also benefited just as much from being in the classroom with me.

For me, my views on solidarity have not changed at all over the years. It's something I always feel, experience and enjoy.

My life has always been based on the principles of solidarity and togetherness. I have never had a different treatment from my family because of Down syndrome. This situation was not seen as a hindrance either on their part or mine.

They have always been supportive of my choices, and I have always been encouraged and supported when deciding to practice martial arts.

Depending on my choice of exercise, I have been able to connect with many athletes, people with intellectual disabilities, and more.

After winning a black belt from the Japanese Shotokan Karate Center, I joined the UAE Special Olympics team and participated in martial arts competitions at the local or international level.

With my country, the UAE, hosting the World Games, I am filled with feelings of pride, and participating in the March of Hope was a dream that turned into reality.

I also had an amazing time judo at the World Games and taking on a new challenge in my sporting life.

Although I did not compete, nor was I able to win medals, I am determined to show that People of Determination have the skills and abilities to play a more valuable role in society.

Today, despite the official closing ceremony of the Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019, our story is still in its infancy and we will strive to continue moving forward.