Twenty-three young leaders with and without intellectual disabilities from across the Middle East/North Africa representing North Africa Programs came together in Tunisia, Sousse from June 16 – 21 for the 11th Special Olympics Middle East/North Africa (SOMENA) Youth Leadership Summit. But they weren't the only voices shaping the experience. Families of Special Olympics leaders also played an important role, reinforcing that meaningful inclusion extends far beyond the participants themselves.
Centered around the theme "One Vision, One Voice," the summit empowered youth to shape both the agenda and the experience, demonstrating what authentic youth leadership looks like in action.
Representing six Programs (Special Olympics Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, and host Program Tunisia) the participants were joined by Sargent Shriver Global Messengers (SSGM) Mujahid Al-Sarhani and his mentor, Warith Al Shibani of Special Olympics Oman. Together, they explored how young people can create more inclusive communities while strengthening leadership skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
Unlike traditional leadership conferences, much of this summit was designed and led by the young people themselves. Participants facilitated icebreakers, organized daily reflections, led group discussions, shared their personal stories, and built friendships that extended well beyond the summit. Their leadership created an environment where every voice was heard and every participant played a role in shaping the experience.
The topics covered throughout the week also reflected youth priorities. Based on participants input, professional speakers led interactive sessions on artificial intelligence, storytelling, inclusive education, and project management. which equipped youth with practical tools to become stronger advocates for inclusion in their schools and communities.
One of the summit's most powerful moments came on the second day, when organizers expanded the conversation beyond youth leaders by inviting families to participate. The decision reflected a broader vision for inclusion, one that recognizes lasting change happens when athletes, siblings, parents, mentors, and communities work together.
"I am the mother of Mohammed Amin (MA), SO Tunisia swimmer,” said Mrs. Najla Menaay. “As a family we have a lot of ups and downs. But when I see his smile, I forget everything. His siblings, Yassin and Ziad, have a major role and are very engaged. Parents should see the positive progress of their children. Love is the essence of the family. Special Olympics changed the whole family for the better."
She reflected on the sacrifices many families make while raising a child with intellectual disabilities as well as situations that can be difficult in the moment, recalling a visit to a supermarket, she described how Mohammed Amin accidentally bumped into another customer while paying. The response was immediate: "Are you stupid?" She was taken back by the response.
“I was shocked,” said Najla. “This is how things are. Although I passed through difficult times, but I am a survivor.”
Her story resonated deeply with participants throughout the room, highlighting both the challenges families continue to face and the transformative role Special Olympics can play in creating acceptance and belonging.
Mohammed Amin's journey reflects that transformation. A swimmer with autism spectrum disorder and limited language skills, he competed at the 10th SOMENA Regional Games, where his determination and love for competition spoke louder than words.
"I realized the immense happiness he experienced during this event and witnessed in him a self-confidence and indescribable joy I had never seen before,” said Najla. "I was delighted by his integration with the group and his feeling of belonging... it gave my son a human and sporting experience that will remain etched in his memory."
The opportunity strengthened Mohammed Amin's confidence, deepened his love for sport, and reinforced his belief that he can achieve even more. The story carried weight throughout the room.
"Thank you for the beautiful story," shared Farah, a Youth Leader without intellectual disabilities from Special Olympics Egypt.
"Thank you for the wonderful job. Behind each athlete there is a mum," added Iman, a mentor from Special Olympics Tunisia.
Anis, a mentor from Special Olympics Tunisia, reflected on the family's impact by saying, "The family is the basis of the success of the athlete."
Throughout the week, the summit demonstrated that leadership is strongest when it is shared. By placing youth at the center of the experience while embracing families, SSGM, mentors, and community leaders as partners, the 11th SOMENA Youth Leadership Summit embodied its theme of One Vision, One Voice, showing that lasting inclusion is built when everyone has a seat at the table and every voice has the opportunity to lead.
