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Gabriela Patricia Velásquez Rodríguez

Gabriela Patricia Velásquez Rodríguez

Special Olympics El Salvador

Gabriela is a Health Messenger, a teacher, and an advocate for inclusion. Her ability to relate to and support people encouraged her to equip herself with knowledge in order to serve better.

Born on 3 June 1999 in San Salvador, El Salvador, Gabriela studied at the Pallas Atenea School. At school, Gabriela felt welcome, included, and considered as a person, capable of understanding and teaching. She passionately worked as a shadow teacher for children with disabilities aged 3 to 6 years old, for three years until 2020.

When Gabriela joined Special Olympics, she participated in artistic gymnastics. Soon thereafter, she became an athlete leader. Her quest for knowledge led her to Health Messenger training. She later attended workshops on first aid, cancer prevention, and the human rights of people with disabilities. Gabriela is currently studying Salvadorian sign language at the Pedagogical University of El Salvador so that she can teach children with hearing impairment.

Knowledge inspired Gabriela to teach about the inclusion of people with disabilities in society. After attending the cancer prevention workshop, she made an effort to pass on the information to fellow athletes, engaging the athlete leaders, Health Messengers, and mentors. She also distributed the brochures and the pink ribbons at the health fair to educate the athletes and their families about cancer.

Gabriela says she wants to play a more active role within the unified space. She would like to contribute her knowledge about inclusion within her community, family, and friends. This is how she can make a difference in society.

Health Messengers 2023

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