Regional Youth Summit Participants in the 3rd Regional Youth Summit discussed a number of important topics, including getting rid of stereotype and recruiting volunteers. The 3rd Regional Youth Summit took place 11-15 November at the Leadership Qualification Centre Attendees came from five countries: Bahrain, Libya, Oman, Egypt and United Arab Emirates. Representatives of Takamol, a nongovernmental organization that is working toward integration of individuals with intellectual disabilities in all aspects of live in the United Arab Emirates, visited the summit. There is the strong possibility of a mutually beneficial partnership between Special Olympics and Takamol. The Youth Summit was held during the 2006 Special Olympics Middle East/North Africa Regional Games. Participants in the summit were presented with a portfolio of information on the event and Special Olympics, as well as a stuffed toy wearing a Special Olympics T-shirt in a Special Olympics pouch, a Special Olympics CD and a copy of the book, “What's Wrong with Timmy? by Maria Shriver. Summit participants (pairs of students, one with and one without intellectual disabilities) discussed several topics, including recruitment of volunteers, coaches, Special Olympics' goals, getting rid of stereotypes, taking steps to change the world and families. After receiving some basic training in journalism, they spent time at the competition venues interviewing athletes, coaches, volunteers and family members. They also had some fun, visiting Ski Dubai, an exclusive “snow city” complete with skating rinks and snow bars. To wrap up the summit, participants all signed a declaration to pledge their commitment to work in their schools and communities as one to make the world a better place. Return to Middle East/North Africa Regional Games home.