IPC trains 250th Local Leader in Para sport development
On October 6, 2026, the International Paralympic Committee trained its 250th Local Leader in Cambodia, part of the Sport for Mobility programme funded by Toyota Mobility Foundation. The initiative aims to empower leaders across 50 National Paralympic Committees worldwide, promoting grassroots participation and sustainable athlete pathways.
The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) reached a significant milestone on October 6, 2026, by training its 250th Local Leader during a course in Cambodia. This achievement is part of the IPC’s Sport for Mobility programme, funded by the Toyota Mobility Foundation. The initiative aims to enhance Para sport development worldwide by equipping leaders within National Paralympic Committees (NPCs) with essential skills and knowledge. The course in Cambodia marked a key moment in the initiative, which began in December 2025 with an initial goal of training 200 leaders across 50 countries. The program's success has led to exceeding this target, with ongoing training efforts now focused on increasing the number of trained Local Leaders globally.
The Local Leaders initiative empowers individuals to advance Para sport within their nations. The first training session took place in collaboration with NPC Madagascar, involving four participants. The latest course in Cambodia welcomed eight new trainees, among whom Song Sokleap was recognized as the 250th Local Leader. The training includes an introductory online session followed by three days of intensive workshops covering essential topics like stakeholder networking and strategic planning. Participants also develop a two-year action plan aimed at increasing grassroots participation in Para sport and establishing sustainable pathways for athletes.
Key stakeholders, including Kristina Molloy, the IPC’s interim CEO, highlight the necessity of collaboration with NPCs to foster sustainable growth in Para sport. The Local Leaders training is a crucial part of the IPC Development Model, which seeks to support NPCs through interconnected initiatives that address their specific needs. As Local Leaders complete their training, they will work closely with coaches, officials, and National Federations to implement their action plans, with a focus on increasing access to Para sport opportunities and enhancing athlete development.
The broader impact of this initiative is already evident, as NPC Botswana recently organized a successful Para Sport Festival that attracted over 165 participants with disabilities. This event received support from approximately 60 coaches and community leaders, illustrating the tangible progress made in promoting Para sport at the grassroots level. The IPC Development Model also encompasses various programs, such as Para Sport Festivals and National Development Training Camps, designed to maximize long-term impact within participating NPCs.
Looking ahead, the IPC is committed to continuing the implementation of the action plans developed by the Local Leaders. As more leaders are trained, the IPC aims to strengthen the entire Para sport ecosystem in these nations, ensuring that the growth of Para sport is both sustainable and impactful. The collaborative effort between the IPC, NPCs, and local communities will be vital in shaping the future of Para sport globally, with the goal of increasing participation and improving athlete pathways in the years to come.
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