From Isolation to Inclusion
From Isolation to Inclusion: How a Program supported by Qatar Foundation, Education Above All, and the International Olympic Committee helps a Palestinian Student facing barriers build a positive connection with Sport
Circle In Palestine, delivered by Palestine: Sports for Life, is part of the Circle In sport-for-equity, inclusion and education initiative.
Once withdrawn and struggling to communicate, 13-year-old Lina has experienced a remarkable transformation through opportunities provided by the Circle-In Palestine program, finding her voice and a true sense of belonging.
Lina, a seventh-grade student with disability and speech difficulties, was naturally shy and reserved, often preferring to remain on the side lines rather than interact with girls her age. That is, until she decided to join the sport-for-social-goods program run by Palestine: Sports For Life, as part of the broader Circle In initiative co-funded by Qatar Foundation, Education Above All Foundation, and the International Olympic Committee.
When the program first started, Lina showed little interest in joining, but with her mother’s encouragement and continuous support she agreed to participate despite her initial hesitation.
During the first sessions, Lina was reluctant to take part in activities, play games, or interact with the other participants. However, through the inclusive and supportive environment created by the coaches she gradually became more comfortable. Step by step, she began participating in games, using sports equipment, and engaging with her peers.
Over time, Lina has become into an active participant. She now laughs, plays, and enthusiastically joins activities. She has become more confident in communicating with her teammates and is often among the first to volunteer during group discussions and activities. The sports club provided her with a safe space where she can participate in sports-based activities, develop not only her physical abilities but also her communication skills, self-confidence, and sense of belonging.
Reflecting on her daughter’s progress, Lina’s mother said: “I never expected to see Lina so happy and confident. She now looks forward to attending every session, talks about her friends, and participates with enthusiasm. The change in her personality has been incredible, and I am truly grateful for this opportunity”
Circle In aims to build more equitable, inclusive, and educated communities across Asia and the Middle East and North Africa region through sport and values-based education, and is supporting sport- participation projects delivering development outcomes in 10 countries. The first phase of Circle In Palestine is reaching 1,250 children across schools and communities in the West Bank and Gaza, with a focus on girls, children with disabilities, refugees, and displaced children.
Taking its name from the sporting tradition of teams showing unity and purpose by coming together in a huddle, Circle In will benefit up to 50,000 children and young people by 2028, while training up to 5,000 coaches, teachers, and instructors to play their part in nurturing equality, inclusion, and education through sport. The project will reach additional beneficiaries through digital resources to help them create locally designed sport-based solutions to their social challenges.
Lina’s journey demonstrates the power of inclusive sport participation in creating opportunities for children and youth including those living with disabilities to build confidence, develop social skills, and become active members of their communities. Her story is a testament to how a supportive environment can unlock potential and inspire lasting positive change.