Charles Nyambe, the Regional President and Managing Director of Special Olympics Africa was invited to the Sports for Change Network (SSCN) inaugural 2022 Sports Awards. The event was held in Johannesburg, South Africa at the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC). Charles was nominated for the "Leading like Mandela" award which he was the recipient of. Nominations include high-profile individuals that have demonstrated excellence in using sports, physical activity, or physical education to contribute to development and peace on the continent. The event which was broadcasted live, was attended by 138 grassroots organizations from 13 countries.
During his acceptance speech, Charles chose to raise awareness for Special Olympics. He shared a call-to-action message to the audience, urging those in attendance and watching from afar to continue to fight for equality for those with intellectual disabilities.
"This award ensures that people with disabilities receive the resources, day-to-day requirements, and activities they need. We put what they need first, not what we desire. We ask them and listen very carefully to what they want, and then we implement," said Nyambe.
Charles was presented with a small-scale Nelson Mandela statue trophy, designed by Jean Moisa who also designed the original nine-meter-tall bronze statue of Nelson Mandela which stands in front of the Union Buildings in Pretoria, South Africa.
"This award ensures that people with disabilities receive the resources, day-to-day requirements, and activities they need. We put what they need first, not what we desire. We ask them and listen very carefully to what they want, and then we implement."
