DUBAI: Heroes of Hope, in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council, has launched an initiative to host wheelchair sports events in the UAE.
The initiative, announced at a press conference at JA Lake View Hotel in Jebel Ali, aims to expand access to adaptive sports for People of Determination and foster discussions around disability.
The event featured speakers Hollie Murphy, founder and CEO of Heroes of Hope, and Abdulla Alblooshi, the organization’s co-founder.
Murphy said: “Our activities, ranging from rugby to swimming, empower athletes of determination to feel included and thrive physically and socially.
“The addition of wheelchairs will allow more PODs to access sports, while also giving able-bodied individuals a better understanding of the resilience and skill required by wheelchair users, both in and outside of sports.
“It’s a powerful step toward a more inclusive community.”
Sara Houston, an Australian national wheelchair basketball athlete, member of the International Wheelchair Basketball Association, and former Idol contestant, shared her remarkable journey of resilience and empowerment through sports.
Houston, diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare and aggressive bone cancer, emphasized the importance of open conversations about disabilities to encourage innovation, acceptance, and inclusivity in sports.
“Sport gave me a purpose when I thought all was lost,” said Houston. “Wheelchair basketball introduced me to a community where I felt empowered, valued, and inspired.
“My mission now is to encourage everyone, athletes, coaches, and spectators, to embrace inclusivity and create a world where sports truly belong to everyone.”
Rodney Holt, founder and CEO of BSF Asia, played a key role in securing the wheelchairs and bringing Houston to the UAE for the event. Holt has been promoting adaptive sports across Southeast Asia for years.
He has had leadership roles in the Special Olympics Indonesia and the International Wheelchair Rugby Federation.
Through a partnership with PepsiCo, Heroes of Hope received 12 wheelchairs for training at the only academy in the UAE offering over 30 adaptive sports weekly for its POD athletes.
The academy has been recognized for hosting groundbreaking events such as Hyrox for PODs, Games of Hope by Aldar, and professional training programs for coaches.
Additionally, Heroes of Hope was the only organization to provide activities for PODs at the Dubai Rugby 7s in both 2023 and 2024.
Wael Ismail, PepsiCo vice president for corporate affairs for Africa, Middle East, South Asia, said: “We are proud to support the Heroes of Hope team as they break new ground with wheelchair sports in the UAE.
“Their determination and passion are truly inspiring, and it’s nothing short of amazing to witness how they face each challenge with such heart and courage, setting an example for the entire community.
“We’re honored to be part of their journey and to help them continue making a meaningful impact.”