Through their project, Wheelchair Campaign, students and Special Olympics athletes at the Peruvian University of Applied Sciences came together to create new wheelchair signage on campus, using art to promote inclusion and challenge community perceptions.
About the Project
The project organized a campaign where students from the Peruvian University of Applied Sciences (UPC) and Special Olympics athletes came together to paint new wheelchair signage across the university’s campus.
The campaign aimed to challenge the idea that wheelchairs are synonymous with disability and demonstrate that inclusion creates opportunities for everyone to pursue their goals.
The Inspiration
This project was part of an exchange with Special Olympics North America. Angel and Sebastian were inspired by the friends they made during the exchange and wanted to bring those connections and lessons back to their community.
They also expressed their gratitude to Special Olympics Peru and UPC for their support and encouragement throughout the project.
The Project
Angel and Sebastian led the painting of a large wheelchair sign on the UPC campus. The new signage served as a visible reminder of the Special Olympics message of inclusion while encouraging the university community to think differently about disability and accessibility.
Project Impact
The impact of the project could be seen through the conversations and reflections of participants. As the signage changed, participants had the opportunity to discuss the importance of inclusion and the role that individuals can play in creating a more welcoming community.
Project Leaders Reflection
For Angel and Sebastian, some of their favorite memories came from working alongside members of their community toward a shared goal. Through the project, they strengthened their teamwork and communication skills while gaining experience as leaders and advocates for inclusion.
As they continue to lead in their community, Angel and Sebastian plan to raise awareness of Special Olympics by sharing their experience with friends and through social media, helping spread the message of inclusion to an even wider audience.