Shiyu Zhang

Shiyu Zhang is an athlete from Special Olympics China in the East Asia Region. Shiyu participates in track and field and table tennis. She has been involved in Special Olympics since 2017.

Shiyu’s favorite part about Special Olympics is being inspired by the spirit of Special Olympics. She says that Special Olympics has made her realize that she was not left behind by this world but rather she is as equal as every individual. Through Special Olympics, Shiyu has become full of hope for the future.

Shiyu is excited for the congress in Berlin. She is looking forward to meeting new friends from all over the world. She said that congress participants come together and become a part of a big family of Special Olympics.

Shiyu is employed with a property management company. Her main duty at work is cleaning. When Shiyu isn’t working or competing, she enjoys dancing, singing, playing the cucurbit flute, drums, and African drums. She is also always happy to make new friends.

Shiyu says that being an athlete leader matters to her and her life. She says that being an athlete leader makes her feel like a valued member of society. Shiyu hopes that through her efforts she can spread the Special Olympics spirit and vision so that more people like her can be motivated and make their lives more meaningful. She hopes people get to know athletes for what they can do rather than focusing on their disabilities or differences so that everyone can work together to make the world more inclusive and friendly.

Shiyu’s grant plan is to educate people on why taking the lead as an athlete matters. She is planning a dryland curling competition for delegations from 10 cities in Shannxi as well as volunteers from the university there. Shiyu is planning to present a speech during the event with the support of her mentor.