Shahd and Abdelrahman have been appointed to the Global Youth Leadership Council. This appointment is a testament to their unwavering dedication to inclusion and their tireless efforts to foster a sense of community and belonging for all.
The two athletes recently traveled to Washington, D.C., where they joined other council members for an initial series of meetings. These sessions aimed to set the stage for their term on the council, laying the groundwork for impactful initiatives and collaborative projects.
"We're so excited," Shahd exclaimed at the start of their adventure. Abdelrahman echoed this sentiment, adding, "Yes, I'm excited to be a council member alongside my sister and get to know people all around the world."
This opportunity holds special significance for Shahd, who shared, "I always felt close to this community. I always wanted to give them a safe space where they can just be themselves." Her passion for inclusion and his commitment to creating safe spaces for others has been long-standing. "So being around people who share the same passion as mine, that made me want to join the council," she continued.
The council brings together young leaders from diverse backgrounds, united by a common goal. "We are all alike, actually, despite our differences, our different backgrounds, but we share the same thing… we have the same passion towards inclusion, and this is amazing," Shahd explained.
Reflecting on their journey, Shahd remarked, "Since I was young, we shared the same school, the same life. So, I have been involved in inclusion my whole life." This lifelong connection has shaped their understanding and advocacy for inclusion. "This connection between us, the love that everyone saw between us, made this thing work. I just reflected this to everyone. So, I think it forced them to respect us, to respect him, to embrace him for who he is, and then made him feel safe. He had a safe place with me. So, he can just be himself and act like that," she elaborated.
Their trip to Washington, D.C., was not just about work. It was also an opportunity to forge new friendships and strengthen bonds with like-minded peers. "Making new friends was the best part of the trip," Abdelrahman shared. This camaraderie is essential as they work towards their shared vision of a more inclusive world.
As they embark on this new chapter, their dedication and passion will undoubtedly inspire others and contribute to a more inclusive and accepting world.
"I wanted to have an impact and make sure that we have a very inclusive life," Shahd concluded. Their journey is just beginning, and their contributions to the Global Youth Leadership Council promise to make a lasting impact.
