The 2025 IPC Athletes’ Forum was held from June 24–26 in Bonn and Duisburg, Germany. More than 70 athlete representatives from over 50 countries attended the Forum, taking part in discussions aimed at shaping the future of the Paralympic Movement. IBSA Chairperson of the Athletes’ Council, representative from Kenya, Sela Adikinyi Odhiambo, took part on behalf of IBSA.

The Forum brought together athlete leaders from National Paralympic Committees, International Federations, Regional Organisations, International Organisations of Sport for the Disabled, and the World Anti-Doping Agency. Over the three days, participants engaged in meaningful conversations on key topics influencing the future of Paralympic sport.

IBSA Chairperson of the Athletes’ Council Sela Adikinyi Odhiambo shared her thoughts on the experience:
“This experience was incredibly enriching, providing me with valuable knowledge to lead the council of athletes in IBSA sports. It was also incredibly encouraging and inspiring to meet people of diverse races and disabilities from around the world. This forum left me feeling special despite my visual impairment, and motivated me to work even harder to strengthen blind sports. I would like to encourage all my fellow athletes out there, know this: Para sports are bursting with opportunities, and you have the power and ability to seize every single one!”

All IBSA athletes are part of a big Paralympic family. Today goalball, judo, and blind football are Paralympic sports, and other sports under IBSA’s umbrella are also growing fast. Women’s blind football is making strong progress and has a real chance of being added to the Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games. At the same time, there is serious development work taking place in powerlifting and showdown.

That’s why having Sela present at the Forum wasn’t just about one person—it represented the voices, experiences, and aspirations of all IBSA athletes. Her participation is a symbol of the growing strength and unity of the blind sports community on the global stage.