Diversity and Inclusion Handbook – Phase 2: Looking Ahead to Strengthen the Message in 2025
As we conclude the first year of championing Diversity and Inclusion through table tennis and continue this journey towards World Table Tennis Day (WTTD) 2025, the ITTF Foundation proudly announces the launch of the WTTD Diversity and Inclusion Handbook – Phase 2! (click here to access)
Celebrating Achievements and Looking Ahead
WTTD 2024 saw unprecedented participation, with 812 events across 121 countries and territories, bringing together thousands of individuals under the theme of Diversity and Inclusion. Like Phase 1, the Diversity and Inclusion Handbook – Phase 2 was developed in collaboration with Pro Sport Development (PSD) and supported by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
While Phase 1 laid a strong theoretical and strategic foundation, Phase 2 builds upon it by highlighting real-world examples, case studies, and inspiring stories from WTTD Promoters, Continental Federations, our global collaborators in Sport for Development, and ourselves, aiming to inspire individuals and organisations on the trip to realise Diversity and Inclusion both within and beyond the realm of table tennis.
Phase 2 also exemplifies our goal to explore how Diversity and Inclusion can take on different meanings across various regions and cultures. It showcases the importance of creativity and open-mindedness in celebrating these values and fostering mutual understanding of their diverse realities. This broader perspective invites everyone to embrace the unique ways Diversity and Inclusion are practised and appreciated around the world.
Key Highlights of the Phase 2 Handbook
What’s waiting for you in this inspiring resource:
- Stories from Promoters:
Explore the power of grassroots initiatives through vivid stories from WTTD 2024 Promoters in Mexico, Rwanda, and India. These passionate table tennis enthusiasts showcase how the sport can break barriers, unite diverse communities, and foster a deep sense of belonging.
For example, Krishnarjun CN from India, overcoming administrative and communication challenges, organised a series of activities in various areas. He introduced table tennis to military soldiers, engaged youth in Indigenous communities, hosted an inclusive tournament gathering players of diverse gender identities, abilities, and nationalities, and led a city-wide Walkathon in Bengaluru.
- Continental Federations’ Efforts:
Dive into practical examples from Continental Federations, such as Table Tennis Australia and the Lebanese Table Tennis Federation, demonstrating innovative approaches to creating inclusive environments that accommodate individuals of different abilities, ages, and backgrounds.
For instance, Table Tennis Australia hosted the Come and Try Table Tennis Disability Day in Brisbane, creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities to experience the sport in an inclusive and welcoming environment. The event not only received positive feedback but also laid the foundation for building a more accessible and inclusive table tennis culture.
- ITTF Foundation’s Practices and Learnings:
We share and reflect on our experiences from the WTTD 2024 journey, including a roundtable discussion on inclusion, a unique inclusive tournament in Leipzig, a partnership with Pongmasters to map inclusive table tennis spaces, and efforts to raise awareness about gender identity and inclusion.
- Collaborators’ Perspectives:
Discover the transformative work of our global collaborators—the Olympic Refuge Foundation, IOC Young Leaders Programme, and Special Olympics. Their initiatives highlight how sport can build bridges, empower communities, and spark a global movement for Diversity and Inclusion, encouraging others to join this movement.
There is much more to explore in the Handbook. Uncover the creativity and enthusiasm of the individuals and organisations within these pages. They will inspire you and motivate you to bring your ideas to life, making a meaningful difference where you are.
An Invitation to Take Action
The Diversity and Inclusion Handbook – Phase 2 is more than a resource—it’s a call to action. As we build momentum towards the second year championing Diversity and Inclusion in the world of table tennis, we invite everyone—players, fans, clubs, and organisations—to download the Handbook! Discover practical tools, inspiring stories, actionable strategies, and more to foster diversity and inclusion within your community!
We extend our sincere gratitude to GIZ for their invaluable support and partnership throughout this journey—it has meant the world to us. Looking ahead, let’s continue to embrace the spirit of Diversity and Inclusion as we gear up celebrate to World Table Tennis Day on 23 April 2025!