EDWIIN Foundation Hosts Wheelchair Racing Championship for Women with Disabilities
In a vibrant celebration of International Women's Month, the Empathy Driven Women International Initiative (EDWIIN) Foundation, in collaboration with the EgoBeke Foundation and Zuri Circle, organized a wheelchair racing championship specifically for women living with disabilities. This empowering event took place at the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, where participants showcased their athletic prowess and determination on the track.
Event Highlights and Theme
The championship, themed "Rise and Roll," featured thrilling competitions across multiple categories, including the 1500 meters, 200 meters, and 100 meters races. Spectators enthusiastically cheered on the young and energetic women as they tested their strengths, making it a fulfilling and motivational experience for all involved. The event underscored the importance of inclusivity and physical activity for women with disabilities.
EDWIIN's Commitment to Inclusion
Uri Ngozichukwuka, the founder of EDWIIN, emphasized the foundation's long-standing advocacy for inclusion. As an NGO focused on women with disabilities, EDWIIN has celebrated International Women's Day with this community for the past nine years. Since 2018, the organization has organized various projects, such as medical fairs and mini-exhibitions of participants' wares, to honor these women.
Ngozichukwuka explained, "We are an inclusion advocate as an NGO. We always include these women in the International Women's Day celebration, and this year, we chose a sporting event to drive them for excellence. We plan to organize other sports like table tennis and shot put for the blind in the future. They are part of society and should be included in every way."
Winners and Prizes
The professional wheelchair race was a highlight, with Commonwealth defending champion Kemi Ladipo emerging victorious in the 1500 meters category. Ladipo received gifts and a cash prize of N100,000. Chineme Irewole secured second place, taking home N50,000, while Abimbola Balogun won third place with N30,000. Winners in other categories also received similar cash prizes, ensuring recognition for their efforts and achievements.
This event not only promoted sports excellence but also highlighted the broader societal need for inclusivity, empowering women with disabilities to participate actively in all aspects of life.
