Refugee
World Refugee Day 2025: Polina Finds Meaning Through Sport in Romania
13-year-old Polina from Ukraine struggled with her new life when she first arrived in Romania but, with the support of teachers, friends and Special Olympics, she began to thrive. Polina now enjoys a full life of art and sport—even achieving bronze at the recent Special Olympics Romania National Games!
2 Min Read
World Refugee Day 2025: Olubunmi’s Story of Healing and Hope in Madrid
This World Refugee Day, we’re celebrating the remarkable story of Olubunmi and her family—originally from Nigeria and now living in Madrid, Spain—who have used the power of sport, dance and music to bring health, healing and enduring hope into their lives.
4 Min Read
Unified with Refugees
Host Novie Craven is joined by special guests Rebecca Daou from Lions Clubs International Foundation and Gerald Mballe, Special Olympics Unified with Refugees Advisor, to shine a light on vital global initiatives supporting youth refugees.
Ukrainian Teen Vlad Flourishes on the Dutch Athletics Track
Vlad Bezghinov, originally from Ukraine, competed in the 100 metres, 200 metres and shot put at the recent Special Olympics Netherlands 2024 National Games.
2 Min Read
Special Olympics Athletes and Refugees Team Up for Unified Football in Spain
Inclusivity took center stage in Seville, Spain on 25 April 2024, as Special Olympics Andalucía football players and refugees from the local Refugee Reception Center came together for an exhibition match.
2 Min Read
Konrad Debniak’s Story Of Resilience
The Special Olympics Poland athlete finds confidence, equality, and purpose through sports.
3 Min Read
Award-Winning Documentary Follows 9-Year Old Ukrainian Refugee’s First Steps
The award-winning documentary "When We Get Home" by Kathleen Shriver and Walking Films is a poignant exploration of the profound impact of war on marginalized communities, with a particular focus on individuals with intellectual disabilities.
2 Min Read
Jamaica Reinforces Inclusive Education Through Sports
Caribbean nation ratifies commitment to Global Coalition for Inclusion at signing ceremony in Kingston
4 Min Read
Special Olympics Europe Eurasia Team Gathers in Warsaw
Strategic planning, sports development, marketing and communications were some of the topics discussed during the two-day gathering
2 Min Read
Special Olympics Romania Embraces Inclusive Support for Ukrainian Refugees through Unified with Refugees Initiative
Representatives of Special Olympics Europe Eurasia, SO Romania, and UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency held a collaborative meeting in Bucharest to explore ways to amplify support for refugees.
3 Min Read