Majed Al-Osaimi: President of the Asian Paralympic Committee The First National Ambassador for the United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF)

Majed Al-Osaimis journey in adaptive sports represents an exceptional success story that deserves to be studied. Despite being affected by cerebral palsy in early childhood, he did not succumb to his physical challenges. Instead, with the unwavering support of his family, he overcame both physical and psychological barriers. This support planted the seeds of confidence within him, allowing him to dream and aspire. It drove him to achieve one milestone after another throughout his life. Today, Majed Al-Osaimi holds the position of President of the Asian Paralympic Committee and is a member of the International Paralympic Committee. Additionally, he serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Dubai Club for People of Determination. He has become an inspiring figure, embodying patience and determination, showcasing how to explore ones talents and develop skills despite challenges. Majed successfully harnessed his abilities to support children with disabilities, making him a role model for resilience and the pursuit of excellence.

Al-Osaimi broke constraints, overcame barriers, and channelled all his energy with the aspirations and needs of people with disabilities, especially children. He worked to convey these aspirations to everyone concerned, particularly in light of our leaderships wise visions and directives to support the rights of people with disabilities and the significant governmental efforts in this regard. The government of the United Arab Emirates launched the National Policy for Empowering People of Determination, intending to achieve active participation and equal opportunities in an inclusive society, ensuring a decent life for them and their families, improving their quality of life, and guaranteeing fair opportunities in life. Majed studied at the Dubai Center for Care and Rehabilitation of People of Determination in his early primary stages. After the decision to integrate people with disabilities into government schools in 1986, he was forced to choose the literary specialization despite excelling in scientific subjects. This was due to the lack of necessary facilities at that time for people with disabilities to access laboratories and facilities, leading to his absence from science classes.

His fathers encouragement and advice played a significant role in instilling in him an iron will. Majed developed leadership qualities and excelled in his studies. He later joined the Higher Colleges of Technology, which distinguished itself by providing a disability-friendly infrastructure for individuals with mobility impairments. The campus had ramps for wheelchairs and designated parking spaces, enabling Majed to excel and graduate with honours.

Resolve for Change

Majed Al-Osaimi possessed an ardent desire to prove that individuals with disabilities are no different from their peers in their ability to accomplish tasks. He believed the real handicap lies in those who do not utilize their minds and harness their capabilities to serve themselves and their country. Upon joining the Trust Club for the Disabled in Sharjah in 1988, the results of his familys support, his confident personality, and resilient determination began to bear fruit. Majed started engaging in sports like his peers, preparing himself for participation in local, Gulf, Arab, and international championships. He later demonstrated his administrative skills, earning his first nomination as Deputy Head of the Cultural Committee of the club. This marked the beginning of his journey, eventually becoming the youngest board member, then the Executive Director, until he reached the position of club Secretary-General. He achieved significant milestones for adaptive sports and himself, leading to his appointment as Secretary-General of the UAE Disabled Sports Federation due to his efforts and dedication.

A pivotal moment in Majed Al-Osaimis journey was when His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and ruler of Dubai, honoured him by choosing him as a member of the Dubai Sports Council alongside renowned sports personalities. He also contributed to establishing a unit for the care of people with disabilities in the Youth and Sports Authority in 2006. Additionally, he served in various roles, such as Regional Marketing Advisor for the Special Olympics, a member of the organizing committee of the Gulf Cooperation Council for Disabled Sports, and the Advisory Council for the Special Olympics in the Middle East and North Africa. He was also part of the Board of Directors of the Higher Committee for the Protection of the Rights of People of Determination in the UAE.

Majed utilized his skills and media proficiency on various platforms, hosting three radio programs: Ambition Without End, a youth and sports magazine on Sharjah Radio, and "Together We Integrate" on Noor Dubai TV and Radio. He hosted numerous figures with disabilities, contributed articles to local newspapers, and spoke on behalf of people with disabilities at various events.

In 2014, Majed earned the well-deserved position of President of the Asian Paralympic Committee, receiving 17 votes to surpass the Malaysian Datuk Zainal Abu Zarin, who held the position for the previous eight years. This victory marked the culmination of his last efforts. As a testament to his resilience and commitment, the United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF) recently appointed Majed Al-Osaimi as its first National Ambassador from the UAE. The organization cited his decades-long efforts on behalf of children in the UAE and several other countries and regions. Majed attributes much of his success to his family, especially his parents, who encouraged him to integrate into society. He acknowledges the support and response from state institutions, their interest in people with disabilities, and their exemplary model in family and child care in alignment with the visionary directives of the UAE leadership.

Majed Al-Osaimis journey of giving and success continues, providing a living example that our children with disabilities can achieve remarkable success and accomplishments with the proper attention, programs, and projects to serve and develop their skills. They possess immense strength, talents, and abilities bestowed upon them by God, waiting to be discovered, nurtured, and cared for.