Solay Thomas

Athlete Leader, Board Director, Fundraising and Events Committee Member, and Current Training Programs: Kayaking & Shot Put

Solay Thomas is a vibrant, motivational individual who embodies positivity. Born on July 18, 1997, with Down Syndrome, she exemplifies the belief that ability triumphs over disability.

Since joining Special Olympics Bermuda (SOBM), Solay has excelled in swimming, kayaking, and athletics, including speed walking and shot put. Her remarkable skills have enabled her to compete both locally and internationally, with standout performances at the 2019 and 2023 Special Olympics World Games held in Abu Dhabi and Berlin. There, she earned a gold medal and a bronze medal, respectively.

Solay’s infectious enthusiasm and capacity to inspire her peers led to her appointment as Athlete Leader in 2022. This role allows her to highlight her talents, receive training, and learn new skills while embracing additional responsibilities on and off the sports field. As part of the SOBM Board, she participates in decision-making processes, providing a unique viewpoint as someone with an intellectual disability. She also sits on the Fundraising and Events Committee.

Beyond her involvement in the Special Olympics, Solay serves as an on-call model for Inclusive Identity, a local clothing brand focused on promoting inclusion. She is also a former member of the Devonshire Ultimate Star Twirlers dance group. Solay actively helps with ‘One Special Night,’ a social initiative that hosts events to create equal opportunities for individuals with diverse abilities.

Additionally, Solay has represented the Bermuda Downs Syndrome Organization at the United Nations World Down Syndrome Day in the USA and is a member of the National Policy for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities and their Families Implementation team.

In her free time, Solay enjoys dancing, rapping, and writing inspirational passages to uplift others. She loves traveling and meeting new people. Recently, she fulfilled a lifelong dream by co-producing her own fashion show, titled "Proud to Be Us."