Adoption of Para Cycling & Goalball Sports

In FY2020, Mitsubishi Corporation made a donation of $50,000 to the Singapore Disability Sports Council (SDSC) to support the creation of a more inclusive society, where persons with disabilities have the opportunity to pursue their sporting dreams and aspirations and achieve a more equitable quality of life. Over 45 individuals with disabilities benefited from this initiative - they were able to access structured training with experienced coaches, specialised equipment and dedicated volunteers. They displayed immense resilience and innovation to play and excel in sports, despite the additional challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Of the donation, $25,000 supported the SDSC’s cycling programme for persons with disabilities, building on Mitsubishi’s contribution since 2019. The donation covered critical coaching fees, purchase of new equipment such as handcycles for wheelchair users, and maintenance of existing equipment such as tube repairs. With the new equipment, members of the group who were born with cerebral palsy can learn to use specialized cycling equipment such as a trike and build the confidence that they need. This support has inspired beginner and development athletes with disabilities. Mitsubishi Corporation's donation has strengthened the group's passion for cycling, encouraging them to lead an active lifestyle and reap the lifelong benefits of the sport, regardless of their disabilities.

Mitsubishi Corporation contributed the remaining $25,000 to support SDSC's goalball program specially designed for persons with visual impairment, enabled more than 15 visually-challenged individuals to access structured training sessions with experienced coaches and dedicated volunteers. The impact of Mitsubishi's support was further amplified through a community outreach initiative called the VisAbility 2-on-2 Goalball Competition in 2021. This initiative not only allowed the group to invite people from diverse backgrounds to try out the sport, but also provided an opportunity for persons with and without disabilities to play and enjoy a sport together, breaking down barriers and encouraging inclusion.

Mitsubishi Corporation donation has helped to shape the disability sports ecosystem in Singapore, enabling persons with disabilities to pursue their dreams through sports. Sport helps to break down barriers and disability should never disqualify someone from participating in it.