When I was selected as a Sargent Shriver International Global Messenger, I was proud and thankful to receive an honor like this! The position has shaped me into a spirited, thoughtful leader in the inclusion revolution, where I help define the mindset of what true inclusion looks like.

Together, Special Olympics and accessiBe have released a collaborative mini-series of the Inclusion Revolution Radio Podcast and accessiBe’s Spotlight Sessions where they will be highlighting the Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023 and driving conversation surrounding the importance of accessibility with many featured guests.

Inclusion Revolution Radio podcast host, Novie Craven, and co-host, Josh Basile, from accessiBe have teamed up to release a podcast mini-series highlighting the Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023.

“Unified Champion Schools are not the only path to social inclusion. But the model is tested, effective and ready to use. For the global community, always ready to talk but often slow to act, they are a way to finally get serious about a commitment to justice.”

“It’s important to recognize that they may not accomplish growth or success in the same manner as many do, but our differently abled children will still accomplish remarkable milestones and pursue life goals!”

Tim Shriver's Op-Ed in Euronews: To build inclusive classrooms, let young people with intellectual disabilities take the lead

Special Olympics Chief, Global Youth and Education, Dr. Jacqueline Jodl, writes, “As policymakers and education leaders attempt to triage the challenges faced by young people in the aftermath of the pandemic, they should consider prioritizing the principles of social inclusion—improving the terms on which individuals and groups take part in society.”

Happy New Year, everyone! Can you believe it is 2023?! It’s so hard to imagine that four years in my role as an SSIGM have already gone by. I can honestly say these years have certainly been filled with adventure and the unexpected.

2023 marks the final stretch of my Sargent Shriver International Global Messenger (SSIGM) term. This is the time for me to reflect on the message that I hope to get across to you, our readers, and the Special Olympics community. I have four meaningful goals for this year that I hope to accomplish, with the love and support of my mentors and staff from Special Olympics and my family and friends.

Read an excerpt of the Leaders interview with Special Olympics Chairman of the Board Timothy Shriver.

The following is an excerpt from the article titled Social Impact Heroes: Why & How Jacqueline Jodl Of Special Olympics Is Helping To Change Our World published by Authority.

The award is presented by Dimensions, an organization in the UK that offers support for people with learning and developmental disabilities.