The Young Advocates Program is sponsored by the Culture and Education Section of the British Embassy in Beijing and co-organized in partnership with the Chinese Disabled Persons Federation. They aim to raise the awareness of the Paralympics, the Paralympic Spirit and contribute to positive social change and the strengthening of civil society.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, First Secretary of British Council Robin Rickard said: “We are very proud of our Beijing Young Advocates; indeed we are proud of all of China’s young people.”

He continued: “The program will establish a global community of Young Advocates committed to promoting the Paralympic Spirit. Through these Young Advocates disseminating and training in their schools, people will become aware of the potential of sport to benefit a diverse range of people in the community and the active role young people with disabilities can play in society.”