Advancing Inclusion Through Sport, Community, and Global Partnership

On 3 December 2025, the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) proudly joined the global community in marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities under the theme:
“Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress.”

This theme resonates deeply with IFMA’s core values. Sport must be accessible to all every ability, every journey, every story.

True inclusion does not only uplift individuals; it strengthens entire societies.
This is why IFMA has built long-standing partnerships with the International Paralympic Committee, Special Olympics, and global organisations committed to equality and dignity.

Inclusion in Action: IFMA at the Steps Community Flagship Event

IFMA was honoured to participate in the flagship event hosted by Steps Community, a leading force for neuroinclusion and disability inclusion through education, employment, social enterprise, and research.

More than 120 leaders from business, education, advocacy, and sport came together, all driven by one powerful belief: barriers fall when society chooses to open doors.

Key messages from the day reminded us that:

  • Inclusion is not a concept   it is action, courage, and responsibility.
  • The greatest barrier is never disability, but the environments we create.
  • Persons with disabilities represent one of the world’s most skilled, resilient, and innovative talent pools.
  • Universal design elevates everyone, shaping societies where all can participate with dignity.

These messages reflect the spirit of the Olympic Movement, calling all sports bodies to champion fairness, equality, and the right of every human being to belong.

IFMA’s Commitment to Inclusive Sport

Representing IFMA, Sport Director Janice Lyn shared a heartfelt insight into IFMA’s mission:

“Muaythai has the power to embrace everyone. This is the beauty of our sport. Inclusion must guide how we train, how we teach, and how we lead because sport has the power to unite, to empower, and to transform lives.”

IFMA continues to grow pathways for athletes of all abilities through:

  • Inclusive divisions at the IFMA Youth and Senior World Championships
  • Para & Special Muaythai showcases at Olympic-recognised multi-sport events
  • Strong global partnerships with IPC, Special Olympics, UNESCO, the United Nations, and United Through Sports

These initiatives ensure that every nak muay regardless of ability has a place on our platform, in our community, and in our future.

IFMA Director General Charissa Tynan captured this spirit perfectly:

“Inclusion is not a programme it is a principle. It is about dignity, respect, and giving every athlete the chance to shine.”

Moving Forward Together

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is not simply a date on the calendar it is a global call to accelerate change.
To listen more.
To include more.
To build spaces where every individual feels seen, valued, and welcomed.

IFMA stands committed to:

  • Expanding inclusive pathways in every region
  • Deepening international partnerships
  • Ensuring safe and equitable access for every athlete who steps into our sport

Together with our global partners, IFMA is shaping a world where sport becomes a platform for empowerment, equality, and social progress, and where every athlete every ability, every journey has the opportunity to rise.