DEPUTY MINISTER TO JOIN SOSA NATIONAL TEAM AT THE SUMMER WORLD GAMES IN BERLIN AS THEIR NUMBER ONE CHEERLEADER
DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT TO BACK SPECIAL OLYMPICS SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL TEAM
The Special Olympics South Africa (SOSA) National Team has received an incredible boost ahead of the highly anticipated Special Olympics World Summer Games in Berlin, Germany, as the Deputy Minister of Social Development, Ms Hendriette Bogopane-Zulu, has declared her unwavering support for the team. In an unprecedented move, the Deputy Minister will be joining the National Team as their Number One Cheerleader, traveling to Berlin in June to rally behind the talented athletes.
Additionally, the Deputy Minister will be participating in the esteemed Special Olympics Global Coalition, a prominent international body dedicated to promoting inclusivity and empowerment globally.
With a steadfast commitment to uplifting and empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities, the Deputy Minister has shown immense dedication to the cause throughout her career. By joining the Special Olympics South Africa National Team at the World Summer Games, she aims to underscore the importance of inclusivity and celebrate the achievements of these exceptional athletes.
The Special Olympics World Summer Games, a global event of unparalleled magnitude, will bring together 7000 athletes from 180 countries to compete in a range of sports. Taking place in Berlin, Germany, this year's Games promise to be a monumental showcase of skill, determination, and unity.
Expressing her enthusiasm, the Deputy Minister stated, "It is an immense honour for me to stand shoulder to shoulder with our exceptional athletes as their Number One Cheerleader at the Special Olympics World Summer Games. I am filled with joy and anticipation as we embark on this journey together, celebrating their remarkable talents and unwavering spirit. I firmly believe that by promoting inclusion and providing equal opportunities, we can pave the way for a more equitable and compassionate society."
The Department of Social Development as the custodian of the 2015 cabinet approved White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, remains committed to eradicating the persistent systematic discrimination and exclusion experienced by persons with disabilities.
As the Number One Cheerleader, the Deputy Minister Bogopane-Zulu will not only provide encouragement and motivation but will also serve as a beacon of inspiration for the entire Special Olympics South Africa community. Her presence at the Games will amplify the national team's spirits, igniting a renewed sense of determination to strive for excellence and overcome any challenges that may come their way.
In addition to her role as the Number One Cheerleader, the Deputy Minister will also actively participate in the Special Olympics Global Coalition during the World Games. This esteemed coalition is dedicated to fostering global partnerships, advocating for inclusive policies, and promoting awareness and understanding of intellectual disabilities on an international scale.
The Special Olympics South Africa National Team and the entire SOSA community extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Deputy Minister of Social Development for her unwavering support and her dedication to the Special Olympics movement. Her presence at the World Summer Games, as well as her involvement in the Special Olympics Global Coalition, exemplifies the government's commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable world for all.
Special Olympic South Africa National Team athletes and coaches
Deputy Minister of Social Development, Ms Hendriette Bogopane-Zulu
