Elena is 20 years old and Gabriela (Gaby) is 23 years old and they are Youth Leaders are from El Salvador. Elena began her Special Olympics movements by participating as a Unified partner in sports and education events. This motivated her to become a leader who spreads the message of equal opportunities to the world, starting with the society that she lives in. Gaby is a Special Olympics Athlete Leader and has competed internationally in some sports, her favorite being gymnastics. She is a leader who wants to show that world what she can achieve and wants to be an example for other athletes with disabilities.
This project is geared towards people with intellectual disabilities as they are vulnerable to bullying and isolation on social media platforms. The Social Media: Appropriate Uses project will provide an opportunity to bring people together who are divided by distance. This will give individuals the opportunity to meet new people and make friends even if they are on the other side of the world. Elena and Gabriela also want to use this project to educate people on the dangers of social media and how to positively use social networks and social media
Elena and Gabriela will use Social Media: Appropriate Uses project to create a national campaign on positively using social networks for people with intellectual disabilities. These Youth Leaders will create a 9-month virtual campaign and forum. The forum will help to train athletes and their families on the risks and correct use of social networks to prevent life-threatening situations.
Elena and Gabriela have a goal of training at least 20 families in the positive and safe use of social networks. 100 Athletes will be educated on the risks and proper use of social networks that. They hope to use this project as an opportunity to hive individuals a voice on social media and practicing safe social media habits.