“Do something today for a better tomorrow” – Oscar Wilde.
Over 60 organisations have come together in solidarity and unity under the Olympic, Paralympic and Special Olympics values.
Together these organisations will promote inclusion, health, equality, non-discrimination and peace.
The festival includes youth of all abilities where the doors are open for youth from migrant and refugee backgrounds, youth from international federations and those with different physical and mental abilities. The participating organisations share a common vision, to provide opportunity by working with and for the youth, giving them autonomy and hope.
Leaders of sport from IOC President Thomas Bach, IPC President Andrew Parsons, Special Olympics CEO Mary Davis and former 8th UN General Secretary Ban Ki Moon amongst so many visionary leaders, have pledged their support towards this unique first ever world youth festival.
The festival will see the youth competing in different fun challenges, where no passports or visas are needed on this virtual platform where the hub is Bangkok, Thailand.
Those who stand on the podium, will be a part of the virtual medal ceremonies.
The world will come together for a celebratory party, to celebrate the youth and where the world leaders will welcome them all. Performances by the youth will set our hearts alight under the #onespiritoneheart slogan.
This year the pandemic prevented youth from attending sport events, so the festival will bring the sport to the youth.
Education is paramount towards giving the youth tools, knowledge and skills towards their future. The Education Program will include inspirational speakers from the international sport community, to the athlete champions themselves.
The festival finals will be held 20-22nd November, in a hybrid event from Bangkok to the world. We will see cities around the world join the celebrations and activities.
Each organisation will have their own youth ambassadors representing their sport and organisation, inspiring the youth by sharing their stories, dreams and hopes through the power of sports.
Dear youth , this festival is for you. We invite you to follow your dreams, keep your eyes on the stars and your feet on the ground. Know that you can achieve anything you put your mind too.
Let’s come together to celebrate life and be united through sports.
