Special Olympics Pakistan - The Spirit of Inclusion
“Everywhere in the world, it’s the same problem… they are isolated, they are bullied, they are sexually abused. The degree is different, but every place is the same,” says Ronak Lakhani, Chairperson of Special Olympics Pakistan (SOP) discussing the struggles of people with intellectual disability.
In response, SOP is dedicated to transforming lives through the power of sports. The organization has created a platform for over 34,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities to perform and be seen. This effort is sustained by more than 4,000 coaches and a nationwide network of families and volunteers. (numbers as of October 2025)
VCast sat down with the team at SOP to learn more about their work.
Through sports, athletes not only enhance their physical fitness but also build discipline and social skills. The SOP community also allows them to meet others like themselves, forging friendships and a sense of belonging.
Pakistan's Special Olympians have worn their green jackets at every World Games since 1991, excelling in their chosen sports and representing their country with pride, yet they are seldom celebrated with fervor at home. In a society where disability is often met with silence and considered taboo, these athletes must work harder to prove themselves, despite possessing the same drive as anyone else.
But once given the opportunity, their rise is undeniable. Take the story of Adil Visram, who was once taunted with the word “pagal” (crazy) on his own street. Through SOP, he went from an outcast to an athlete with international speaking engagements that have also led him to meet leaders like Bill Clinton and Barack Obama.
Jasmine Sharif’s journey is another powerful testament to the impact of SOP. During one event, Chairperson Ronak Lakhani was nervous for her, urging her to swim only 25 or 50 meters. Jasmine, however, committed to the full 100 meters—and succeeded. She now serves as an Athlete Leader at SOP, embodying her own philosophy:
“Whatever I dream, I make sure I fulfill it — it was my dream to become an Olympian, so I have to fight for it.”
This pathway to empowerment is no accident. SOP operates a structured development system that begins with inter-school competitions, progresses to city, regional, and national games, and ultimately selects athletes to represent Pakistan at international winter and summer events held every four years.
Crucially, corporate partnerships have accelerated this transformation. Brands like Soya Supreme, through campaigns such as Neiki Ki Recipe, have used their platforms to spotlight Special Olympians, reshaping public perception. Entire families—and even cities—become known because of these athletes.
The impact is so profound that it inspires deep commitment. Acclaimed actress Sarwat Gilani initially visited SOP for a standard celebrity interview. However, after witnessing its "larger than life" impact, she decided to become an official ambassador.
“These are heroes — real-life heroes — but there is a lot of acceptance lacking in our society.”
The call is simple: witness their achievements, support their journey, and stand beside them as allies.
You can also champion SOP’s cause by volunteering your time or contributing financially to help train the next generation of athletes. Visit the Special Olympics Pakistan website to learn how you can get involved today.
This interview was produced with support from Soya Supreme.
This article was developed with the assistance of AI tools.
