iLEAP inspires young leaders through sport, inclusivity
The transformative Inclusive Leadership Programme (iLEAP) has inspired more than 170 young people in the past three years – 27 per cent of whom are individuals with disabilities.
The programme is a flagship initiative of the Malaysian Olympism in Action Society (MOiAS), designed for young athletes from diverse and marginalised backgrounds, including those with disabilities.
At the heart of iLEAP is Tania Lee, the first and only Malaysian IOC Young Leader 2021-2024.
“I’m confident that in the years to come, iLEAP will continue to inspire and empower generations of young leaders from diverse backgrounds who will make a positive impact on the world of sport and beyond,” said Lee, iLEAP’s programme director.
“My goal is for iLEAP to become self-sustaining, with young leaders taking on leadership roles within the programme, ensuring its future growth and success.”
If the seventh edition, held at the International Youth Centre in Cheras from Dec 21-23, 2024, is any indication, Lee and her team are on the right track.
One of the participants, Mia Damia Muhammad Izwan, revealed she was “forced to join” the programme by her parents, but it proved to be an eye-opener.
“I felt nervous due to the new environment at the beginning, but later on, felt comfortable enough to deliver a speech and a song at the closing ceremony.”
Her journey from apprehension to confidence reflects the transformative power of iLEAP, where young people discover their potential and overcome personal barriers.
Another future leader was Tan Yee Phern, who said the programme was fun, delightful and filled with memorable moments and achievements. It was also a great way to meet new friends from different cultures.
The programme’s core modules focus on sports values, healthy living, life skills, and social competency – equipping participants with the tools they need to succeed, on and off the field.
The highlights of the event included enriching learning sessions, such as a tour of the OCM Sports Museum and Hall of Fame, a workshop on ‘Localising Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Malaysian Sport Leaders’ by MySDG Academy Malaysia, and an interactive session on ‘Nature Hero Champions’ by WWF Malaysia.
MOiAS president and Olympian Noraseela Mohd Khalid, who has been an integral part of iLEAP’s success, outlined plans to expand the programme this year.
“We aim to continue the iLEAP programme with exciting collaborations, including a ‘Tiger Run’ event with the World Wildlife Fund, aligning with our focus on health and well-being,” she said.
“We hope to inspire even more people to join our society and contribute to making this vision a reality.”
iLEAP marked a significant milestone in 2024 when it held its first programme in the East Malaysian state of Sarawak.
The programme attracted not only local participants but also international attendees from Thailand and Singapore, making it a cross-cultural experience.
Over 36 young participants joined, with eight participants with disabilities, further reinforcing iLEAP’s commitment to inclusivity.
At its core, iLEAP is about much more than sports – it is about shaping a better society through Olympism.
