The Agitos Foundation, in partnership with delivery partners, often implements programmes that cover its four keys areas of activity.

In 2011 and 2012, a number of Youth Workshops were organized in Central America, Africa and Europe which aimed to empower youngsters to get into sport and develop their abilities.

Hundreds of youngsters have benefitted from these programmes which introduced them to different summer and winter Paralympic Sports, included elements to improve their interpersonal skills and their living conditions, and taught them the Paralympic values of courage, determination, equality and inspiration.

Additionally youth co-ordinators and coaches received specific training to provide them with the necessary skills to train and empower youngsters in their own country.

The feedback from all involved has been overwhelming.

Michael Charris, tennis coach from Panama: “The Youth Camp was a tremendous experience, which made me realize that I can continue playing and coaching tennis even with my disability. It inspired me to promote Wheelchair Tennis in Panama.”

Aidah Katushabe, 18 from Uganda: “I was born disabled and later was amputated in 2006 then started using artificial limbs. At first, it was ok because it felt good to finally walk but I felt left out as I was the only one in the community I thought people did not like me. I felt that I had no value and I could not do anything on my own. But when I got a chance to attend a youth work shop in Rwanda my life changed for the better because I found out that they were many things that I could afford to do. My self-esteem increased and I got courage to try out new things like playing sports."

Aytakin Asgarova, Azerbaijan: “I am working with people with a disability and we have no experience in winter sports. This was a great opportunity for me and my nation. I will share the experience I’ve learnt here with organizations in Azerbaijan involved in winter sports.”