Breaking barriers through sport: A vision for an inclusive society

For Hassen Mannai, sports are about inclusion, personal development, and empowerment for all. As a regional director of a youth sports program in Tunisia, he works hard to provide people of all abilities with access to a variety of sports, including gymnastics and badminton. With a background in physical education and almost 20 years of experience navigating life in a wheelchair, Hassen sees access to adaptive sports as an essential component of a flourishing society. His leadership enabled him to serve on several nationally acclaimed sports organizations, including the technical committee of the Tunisian Paralympic Gymnastics Federation. This year, Hassen also joined the Tunisian para-badminton team.

During the GSMP, Hassen is interested in developing the skills he needs to expand his mission across the nation of Tunisia and eventually around the globe. He sees mentorship as an essential component and looks forward to extracting elements of the GSMP to professional relationships back home.

Hassen will be mentored by Erik Robeznieks, the Assistant Director of Adaptive Sports and Fitness at the University of Michigan.