International Inspiration Young Leaders inspired by visit to Olympic Park

The Young Leaders pictured at the recent Sainsbury's UK School Games in Sheffield.

The five Young Leaders, including two from Nigeria and two from Malaysia, came down to London as part of a special trip after volunteering at the Sainsbury’s UK School Games, a major multi-sport event which is delivered by the Youth Sport Trust.

Every year, International Inspiration delivery partner the British Council brings Young Leaders from the programme to volunteer at the UK School Games where they meet other Young Leaders from the UK and learn about leadership and cultural diversity.

During the day on the Olympic Park they visited the Aquatics Centre, and met with II Foundation Chair Sir Keith Mills and International Inspiration Ambassador Tanni Grey-Thompson.

In Nigeria and Malaysia, International Inspiration aims to raise the profile of sport and instil more interest and enthusiasm in teachers, young people and the wider community, providing young people of all abilities with better access to sport and PE.

Over 100,000 Malaysian schoolchildren have benefited from activities and training organised through the programme, while in Nigeria, the IAAF Kids’ Athletics programme is helping train 800 teachers to deliver high-quality activities to 200,000 children.

Tanni Grey-Thompson said: 'I was thrilled to meet some of the Young Leaders involved in International Inspiration – they’re incredibly inspiring and ambitious young people. They are a testimony to what the programme is delivering around the world and demonstrate the impact that physical education and sport can have on young people’s lives.'

Ayoka, aged 15, from Nigeria said: 'Since becoming involved with International Inspiration, my leadership qualities have improved and I am looking forward to going back and sharing what I have learned with other students at my school.'

International Inspiration is bringing to life London 2012’s promise to reach young people all around the world and connect them to the inspirational power of the Games so they are inspired to choose sport. It has achieved its vision of reaching 12 million children and young people a year earlier than planned, and the programme is now active in 17 countries around the world.

Read the full press release