UAE Special Olympics athlete pushes for ‘genuine’ inclusion of People of Determination

Chaica Al Qasimi, a Special Olympics athlete and outspoken self-advocate for People of Determination (PoD) in the UAE, is urging society to move beyond symbolic acts of inclusion and embrace meaningful, rights-based change.

In an exclusive interview with Khaleej Times, Chaica — a martial artist, global ambassador, and disability rights advocate — highlighted persistent gaps in education, employment, and healthcare that continue to marginalise many people with disabilities.

“Society focuses on talking about inclusion with free access to fun stuff, not the legal work of inclusivity,” she said, calling attention to the contrast between public perception and the harsh realities faced by many families.

While the UAE has made significant strides, including Federal Law No. 29 (2006) and ratifying the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Chaica warned that challenges remain. She noted that some schools still reject students with disabilities, specialised education is costly, and inclusive opportunities are limited.

“Families are hiding their children at home, in their rooms, with no food or water,” she revealed, exposing the unseen struggles that often remain hidden behind closed doors.

Employment discrimination, high joblessness among PoD, and bullying in schools were also cited as pressing issues. Chaica urged both government and the private sector to take accountability:

“Let schools be open to disabilities with affordable payment plans. Let the university be open to disabilities. Let workplaces hire and stop discriminating against them.”

For Chaica, the path forward begins with self-advocacy. She called on society to encourage People of Determination to raise their voices rather than silencing or redirecting them. “Encourage them to speak up without silencing them,” she stressed.

Diagnosed with Down syndrome, Chaica has broken barriers and stereotypes throughout her journey. A black belt in karate and Special Olympics athlete, she captured international attention in 2019 when she carried the torch for the Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi. She has also addressed the United Nations, urging global leaders to “make the invisible visible.”

Her advocacy extends beyond sports and speeches. She has trained other PoD, empowered women with disabilities, and launched programmes like Advocacy in the Desert, all aimed at building a more inclusive society.

The role of families, she noted, is equally vital. “Never overprotect your child. Encourage independence at home and outside of home,” she advised.

As the UAE continues shaping its future vision of inclusion, Chaica Al Qasimi’s voice stands as a powerful reminder: true inclusion is not about token gestures, but about rights, respect, and recognising the full potential of every individual.