David is a 21-year-old student pursuing a BSN at Cavendish University. He initially joined Special Olympics Zambia as a volunteer and has worked with the program since then. David is a Unified Partner and a community coach. As a Unified Partner, David works with athletes and other leaders to make sure their work aligns with Special Olympics objectives, as well as creating sports and health programs for persons with intellectual disabilities. Ever since he joined Special Olympics, David has conducted activities in different communities such as “Reach Our Youth Day,” Chisamba activity, sporting events and advocacy programs. David is passionate about spreading the message of inclusion.

Joshua is a 19-year-old athlete for Special Olympics Zambia. He is currently enrolled in school completing his sixth year at Chainama Special School. Joshua joined Special Olympics Zambia through the sports programs and health screenings held at his school. Over the years, Joshua actively participated in Special Olympics programs where he enjoyed playing sports and making friends with so many other athletes. Joshua has attended various Special Olympics youth and leadership trainings where he has learned new skills and developed new friendships.
David and Joshua know that attitudinal barriers are created by individuals in the community who can only see an impairment in a person with a disability and not the different abilities they possess. These Youth Leaders are passionate about eliminating the stigma associated with intellectual disabilities which so often result in bullying, social isolation, or even violence.
David and Joshua will train both athletes and partners how to play and enjoy the game of hockey. They will also train more coaches and teachers about diversity and inclusion in Unified Sports. They will hold advocacy and awareness campaigns in local schools and communities. Lastly, David and Joshua will hold Unified Sports and other activities and competitions to show the different abilities youth with and without intellectual disabilities have. They will all come together to host these events and showcase their respective talents.
David and Joshua’s project will work to break down attitudinal barriers in their community through collaboration, advocacy, and sport. They will use Unified field hockey to play a part in educating the members of their community, parents and the athletes about these barriers and teach them on how to create new pathways to ensure that society is as accessible and inclusive as possible.