Maryam Al Madani, a 17-year-old Emirati girl with Down syndrome, secured a remarkable achievement for her country by winning two gold and two silver medals in women’s powerlifting at the 10th Special Olympics Middle East and North Africa Regional Games.

The competition was held in Egypt from September 17 to 23. Maryam, a student at GEMS World Academy, delivered an outstanding performance to achieve her goal of winning medals and bringing pride to the UAE.

Heath Monk, principal and CEO of GEMS World Academy, said of the teenager’s achievement: “Maryam has Down syndrome, but that has not prevented her from actively participating in school life, enjoying sport and striving to achieve her goals. She is a hardworking student who consistently faces challenges with determination and perseverance.”

From Cycling to the Powerlifting Podium

Maryam’s interest in sport began in childhood, when her family encouraged her to take part in activities such as gymnastics, cycling and fitness training. Learning to ride a bicycle independently was one of her earliest achievements and helped build her confidence.

About two years ago, Maryam joined Heroes of Hope. After observing her physical abilities during training, the club’s coaches identified her talent for powerlifting and encouraged her to pursue the sport at a more advanced level.

Regular training helped Maryam develop her skills and improve her strength. She gained her first competitive experience in Abu Dhabi and later won a silver medal at a Special Olympics event in the UAE capital.

Her performance attracted the attention of Special Olympics officials and led to her selection for the regional competition in Egypt.

Maryam continued training during the school holidays and, with the sustained support of her family and coaches, prepared for the competition. Her efforts ultimately paid off with four medals.

Fulfilling a Promise to Her Father

One of the competition’s most emotional moments came when Maryam won her first gold medal.

Before travelling to Egypt, she had promised her family that she would win a medal for the UAE and asked her father to attend the event to watch her compete.

According to the school principal, after learning that she had won her first gold medal, Maryam excitedly called her father and told him she had taken first place, just as she had promised.

Monk described the call as an immensely special and unforgettable moment for Maryam and her father.

School Honours Teenage Champion

Maryam has studied at GEMS World Academy since December 2017. School officials have worked to provide a supportive environment in which her academic, personal and sporting talents can flourish.

After Maryam returned from Egypt, the school held a ceremony to celebrate her achievement and presented her with a special jersey for the school’s elite athletes, along with a UAE flag.

The principal of GEMS World Academy expressed hope that Maryam’s success story would encourage families and schools to identify and nurture the individual abilities and talents of children with disabilities, rather than focusing on their limitations.

He said: “For children with disabilities, having people who believe in their abilities, encourage their interests and support their progress can have a profound and meaningful impact.”

Dreaming of Competing at the Special Olympics World Games

Maryam Al Madani is now pursuing a bigger goal and hopes to earn a place on the UAE national team for the Special Olympics World Games.

According to the school principal, the teenage athlete is determined to improve her powerlifting skills following her success in Egypt and secure the opportunity to compete on the world stage.

Maryam is proud of her achievements and hopes to win more medals for the UAE in the future.