Paisley, 15, and Radoslava, 17, are both Youth Leaders from Saratoga Springs. Paisley enjoys her time as a peer tutor and is excited about the work that Special Olympics does. Radoslava has been an advocate of the Special Olympics movement and is excited to grow the message in her community. Radoslava and Paisley believe that youth connection and engagement is extremely important. They are both strong advocates for social interaction, despite the current situation of the pandemic.
Paisley and Radoslava have noticed that youth in their community are finding it extremely difficult to connect socially in person, without relying on digital platforms. Many students spend time playing video games and have a hard time connecting outside of those games. Communicating online has its benefits and drawbacks and they see how after months of quarantine and isolation, youth struggle to revert to pre-COVID social life.
Their plan is to shift the narrative from viewing video games as hindering social interaction, to using them in a positive way to promote social interaction and create platforms that encourages teamwork and collaboration. Paisley’s and Radoslava’s plan include sending out invites, researching top games, gathering the necessary supplies and hosting a video game sporting event.
Paisley and Radoslava hope to host an event that promotes social interaction between all individuals present as well as make a connection to individuals with and without disabilities around the world.