A unique opportunity to listen and learn was how Special Olympics Europe Eurasia Regional President & Managing Director, David Evangelista described the Leadership Conference 2018 “Inclusion in Motion”. The conference, which took place in Budva, Montenegro, gathered together over 100 participants from 38 countries to learn from each other and discuss challenges and achievements.
Mr. Evangelista noted, “This is, in essence, a two-day data compilation bringing together a myriad of voices focused on the rejuvenation of our shared plan. The goals of this two-day conference are to listen and learn." He continued, “I’m here as President and Managing Director to listen to all of our programmes and to understand more about what their challenges are. For example, how are communities responding to our value proposition? How are governments engaging? How can we engage civil society more effectively and what are the barriers to gaining this support? Also, what are the athletes saying, what are their moms and dads saying, what are their friends telling us?”
Mr. Evangelista paid tribute to Special Olympics Montenegro for organizing and hosting the event as well as the U.S. Embassy in Montenegro for its support and local partner UNICEF for presenting at the event. At the conference, Special Olympics programmes from across the region were recognized for their years of service as well as celebrating the 50th anniversary of the movement.