A well-attended workshop on the difficulties experienced by persons with intellectual disabilities was recently held by Special Olympics Malta. The event was put together for the benefit of coaches, athletes and their families and was led by Tali Kornhauser, Vice-Chair Special Olympics Israel. Tali Kornhauser, herself a parent of an athlete with intellectual disability led a remarkable session addressing some of the fears and frustrations persons with intellectual disabilities go through.

The event was supported by the Vodafone Malta Foundation. The Foundation has been supporting Special Olympics Malta for a number of years and is an integral part of the organisation, which has grown considerably from its inception days. “It is very heartening to see how this organisation works with passion and drive for the benefit of its members and their families,” said Gemma Mifsud Bonnici, Chairperson, Vodafone Malta Foundation. “A perfect example of turning Vodafone Malta Foundation funds into tangible benefits for members.”

The workshop, put together by the Family Support Network led by Albert Gruppetta in collaboration with the Education Section, and coordinated by Marica Gatt, allowed parents and coaches alike to feel, perceive and understand how persons with intellectual disability experience fear, frustration and tension in daily life. Through the use of art and role play, Tali led the audience through the path of performing under cognitive restrictions and undergo frustration occurrences, similar to those experienced by persons with intellectual disabilities. Through this workshop, participants were encouraged to reflect on current practices and develop strategies for improved education and support. After the workshop around forty athletes competing in the upcoming Special Olympics World Games created a colourful 5-metre banner to be taken to Athens to support the Maltese Athletes.

Special Olympics Malta forms part of the Special Olympics Europe/Eurasia region and currently services around 400 children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics Malta offers training in seven different disciplines, voluntarily all year round and on a daily basis. The Family Support Network plays a crucial role in the running of the family programme in Malta and provides social, humanitarian support and information. Further information regarding Special Olympics Malta can be obtained by visiting the Special Olympics Malta Facebook Page.

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