Hope and Resilience: The Refugee Paralympic Team at the 2024 Paralympic Games

Athletes from the Refugee Paralympic Team are set to inspire the world with their incredible stories of resilience and determination as they compete for medals at the 2024 Paralympic Games, commencing in Paris next week. This remarkable team, comprising eight Paralympians and one dedicated running guide, represents individuals who have fled conflict and persecution in their home countries. They will showcase their talents across six sports:

• Para-athletics
• Para-powerlifting
• Para-table tennis
• Para-taekwondo
• Para-triathlon
• Wheelchair fencing

Among these inspiring athletes is Ibrahim Al Hussein, a Syrian para-triathlete who endured the loss of his right foot and parts of his left foot during the devastating civil war in Syria in 2012. His journey of survival led him to seek refuge in Greece. Al Hussein expressed his heartfelt mission, stating, “I left Syria in a wheelchair, and I want to send a message of perseverance and hope to everyone who feels miserable or bad about themselves.” His words resonate with many as he trains at the team’s camp in Reims, embodying the spirit of overcoming adversity.

Like many of his teammates, Al Hussein is committed to demonstrating that success is achievable, even in the face of dual challenges—disability and displacement. The journey has not been easy; many team members have faced numerous obstacles, including years spent in overcrowded refugee camps with little to no access to proper training facilities. Despite these hardships, Al Hussein and his companions have reached the pinnacle of their respective sports.

Hadi Darvish, an Iranian para-powerlifter, encountered significant challenges, including the inability to open a bank account due to his refugee status, which hindered his ability to pay for gym access after arriving in Germany. However, his unyielding perseverance led him to find a suitable training facility, culminating in an impressive victory, where he secured first place in the 2022 German National Championships, competing against able-bodied athletes.

Another inspiring figure is Guillaume Junior Atangana, who, after losing his eyesight, believed his dreams of becoming a professional athlete had been shattered. Yet, through the support of a guide, he rediscovered his passion for running and found new possibilities. He proudly remarked, “I’ve managed to achieve performances that some able-bodied people can’t.” Following a commendable fourth-place finish in the 400 meters at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games, Atangana is now setting his sights on winning a medal in Paris.

Zakia Khudadadi, the only woman on the team, made history during the Tokyo Games as the first Afghan female athlete to compete in an international sporting event since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan. As she prepares for her second Paralympic Games, Khudadadi passionately shared, “Life for all girls and women in Afghanistan is forbidden. It’s over. I’m here to win a medal in Paris for them. I want to show strength to all women and girls in Afghanistan.” Her determination symbolizes hope for many.

The Refugee Paralympic Team will proudly lead the parade at the Opening Ceremony on August 28, making their way down the iconic Champs-Elysées, a powerful testament to their journey and resilience.