Our attention turns to the stories of three Afghan girls and young women, Ava*, 18 years, Negar*, 15 years, and Arezoo*, 13 years, who have sought refuge in Iran. These girls and young women, like many others who have endured years of discrimination due to a select few, continue to persevere while holding onto hope, not only for themselves but also for countless others facing similar challenges.
Hope is a state of mind that every person has experienced in their lives – some have always been hopeful, some have lost it along the way, and some fortunately were able to re-gain it even after facing the most horrible pathways a human being can cross. With the story of Francois Bulambo, we would like to celebrate his strength, courage and resilience when he was forced to flee his home fearing for his and his family’s lives, and we ask everyone to show empathy, solidarity and understanding to refugees.
The collaboration between ITTF Foundation and Swaythling Club International aims to promote the sport's benefits, foster development, and have a lasting impact on communities worldwide. With aligned objectives, the partnership focuses on ensuring the continuance of the Emergency Relief Fund and boosting the inaugural World Table Tennis for Health Congress.
Helia Asghari, a table tennis player from Iran, has achieved a remarkable milestone by being selected to participate in the 63rd International Session for Young Olympic Ambassadors, as the sole representative from the Islamic Republic of Iran. Her journey began as a participant in the Rising Stars project, an initiative in Iran supported by the ITTF Foundation's Dream Building Fund powered by GSD, and aims to raise awareness on female rights and promote social inclusion. Helia's selection as the first-ever Irani representative from table tennis at the YOA Session is a testament to her exceptional skills, dedication, and her role in driving positive change within her community.
The ITTF Foundation and Parkinson’s ZA also announced that they will invite one local man and woman to participate at the 2023 World Parkinson’s Championships in Crete, Greece later this year.
The ITTF Foundation is excited to announce its partnership with Parkinson's ZA to create a lasting legacy for the local community on the occasion of the ITTF World Table Tennis Championships Finals in Durban 2023, marking the first time the African continent has hosted the prestigious event in over 80 years.