When I joined Special Olympics in 2020, I was looking for a way to get back into sports. I did not realize then that I would also discover my voice as a leader. Through basketball, soccer, baseball and floor hockey, I have built friendships, gained confidence and found opportunities to support other athletes. Today, I am proud to represent Toronto West as a Special Olympics athlete and to use my experiences to help make our community more welcoming and inclusive.
Growing up with an intellectual disability, I experienced bullying and struggled to fit in. Those experiences taught me why kindness, inclusion and leadership are so important. I want other athletes to feel welcome, respected and proud of who they are.
To me, being a leader does not mean being better than everyone else. It means supporting others, listening to their ideas and helping people feel included. A leader can make a difference through small acts of kindness and encouragement.
During basketball practice, I encouraged a teammate who was struggling with a drill. When he succeeded, we celebrated together. That experience reminded me that leadership can begin with a simple act of support.
I put my name forward for the Ontario Athlete Leadership Council because I wanted to help athletes have a stronger voice. I am also part of the Toronto West Council. Leadership training has helped me become more confident when sharing ideas and contributing to my community.
Recently, I delivered an athlete speech at a Special Olympics Ontario Torch Run event. Sharing encouragement and the Athlete Oath was another opportunity to use my voice and represent other athletes.
Being a leader is important to me because I care about mental health and want athletes to feel comfortable asking for support. I want people to know that they are not alone and that their voices matter.
Over the next five years, I hope to continue growing as a leader and create a Toronto social group where athletes can connect outside sports. After my athletic career, I would also like to coach younger athletes and encourage them to believe in themselves.
I am proud to represent Toronto West. Everyone deserves to participate, be heard and feel included. I believe leadership is about helping others feel confident, supported and valued.
Thank you,
Michael Kusi