Medellín, July 26, 2025 – As part of the ongoing partnership between UTS Colombia and Special Olympics Colombia, David Gonzalez, representing UTS in Colombia, joined forces with local young leaders to actively participate in the “No Barriers Cup”, a unified event organized by Special Olympics Colombia on Saturday, July 26th. This inspiring gathering brought together 700 athletes with disabilities from 10 municipalities across Colombia.
Throughout the day, participants engaged in a variety of activities, including futsal, basketball, athletics, dance sports and more. The event was fully unified, with teams composed of athletes with and without disabilities participating together in all activities. This inclusive approach fostered mutual understanding, respect, and a true spirit of unity. Reflecting on the day, David González shared:
“It was great, an atmosphere filled with joy and with an aura of victory. All athletes had the opportunity to share their different talents with their family and friends.”
Special Olympics Colombia’s impact on the lives of local youth with intellectual disabilities is undeniable. Through a range of programs, activities and events, they provide opportunities for these athletes to develop their physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and participate in sharing their gifts, skills, and friendship with their families, and the community. During the “No Barriers Cup” event, every person, regardless of ability, is accepted and celebrated, and we love to see it!
One of the event’s highlights was the dance and movement activity, where UTS Colombia representative David, along with Young Leaders Daniela and Alicia, actively engaged and supported the youth. They kicked things off with a lively warm-up, setting the tone for a fun and welcoming atmosphere. Participants of all abilities, in teams representing their respective regions, then took part in a vibrant dance competition! Good vibes all around.
David highlighted Daniela’s impactful role, noting that: “From her experience as an elite athlete and education in psychology, she has great empathy with Special Olympics athletes.”
The impact of Daniela and Alicia on the participants was evident: “They loved Daniela and Alicia, tons of repetitive strong hugs were received,, it’s just so much love.”
Every participating youth received a medal for their dedication and effort. A truly impactful moment for David was the final moment of each competition, where the rival teams celebrated with each other. Many times before knowing the result, this celebration was shared for the simple joy of competing and playing sports with their friends in front of their families.
UTS made its first venture into Latin America with an event in Medellín on February 27th, 2025, in a collaborative effort with the Mayor’s Office of Medellín through INDER, Special Olympics Colombia, and various departmental sports leagues. A native of Medellín, David founded “Sport is Your Chance Colombia” seven years ago, inspired by IFMA’s “Sport is Your Gang” social project. His vision aligns perfectly with UTS’s goal of creating opportunities for children to feel valued and fulfill their dreams through sport.
Discussing the partnerships between UTS Colombia and Special Olympics Colombia, David said: “It is 100% crucial. They have become our key partners here in Colombia. We are now starting to collaborate for the next edition in October.”
Looking ahead, UTS is eager to increase its activity in Colombia and the broader Latin America region, deepening collaborations with local partnerships.
David sees a lot of potential for UTS’s future collaboration with Special Olympics Colombia, stating: “UTS Colombia is working hard to create new connections and to generate strategic alliances (Inder Medellín, Indeportes Antioquia, Special Olympics Colombia, Medellín Convention Bureau, Plaza Mayor And Alcaldia De Medellín), with the intention of increasing UTS’ impact in the region.”
These efforts will also contribute to the preparations for the UTS World Youth Festival 2025, scheduled to take place this October in Malaysia, as UTS explores innovative ways to include youth from diverse regions through hybrid platforms for its upcoming events and activations!
