The Asian Paralympic Committee (APC) continues to place athletes at the heart of its mission – especially young athletes who represent the future of the movement.
In line with this vision, Salama Al Khateri, a para-cyclist from UAE and Vice Chair of the APC Athletes’ Committee, was entrusted with a special role — serving as the Master of Ceremonies at the APC Conference and General Assembly.
And she delivered far beyond expectations.
With a voice that carried both strength and emotion, Al Khateri not only filled the grand hall of The Hilton in Astana with her words but also touched the hearts of every delegate present.
Her elegance, confidence, and natural presentation skills made her a standout presence throughout the four-day event.
Reflecting on her performance, APC President Majid Rashed expressed deep pride:
“The APC is very grateful to Salama for her outstanding performance on stage – she truly did a remarkable job. We thoroughly enjoyed her presence as the MC across all four
days. As part of our mission to empower athletes, we are always seeking opportunities to give them platforms to lead, and this was one such occasion. We are extremely proud of her and wish her continued success in her career.”
Delegates echoed this praise, commending her poise and ability to engage the audience with grace. “Sport has the power to bring people together like no other Salama Al Khateri has done an incredible job this week for Asian paralympic Committee. She shines as bright as her smile,” shared Jo Calvino, International Relations Manager of Paralympic GB who attended the APC Conference and GA in Astana.
Al Khateri, who is pursuing Master’s in Marine Studies from University of Auckland and is due to graduate in September, started Para badminton at the 2017 Asian Youth Para Games before switching to Para cycling in 2023.
She represented the UAE team at the Glasgow 2023 Para cycling Road World Championship and Hangzhou 2022 Asian Para Games while also winning the gold medal (time trial) at the Asian cycling championships 2023 in Rayong, Thailand.
At the Asian Para Road Cycling Championships 2025 in Phitsanulok-Phichit, Thailand, she took the first positions in both Road Race and time trial.
She shared her heartfelt gratitude to the APC for giving he one of the most memorable experiences.
“It was truly an honour to stand alongside all the leaders of the Paralympic Movement in Asia. Having the chance to lead such an important event sent a powerful message that athletes’ matter, that our voices count, and that we are at the very heart of this movement. This experience has lifted my spirit, boosted my confidence, and inspired me to give even more to sport and to my community.”
She added that the event also provided a unique platform to connect with fellow athletes, exchange ideas, and share feedback that will help shape the future of Para sport.
“With initiatives like this, the APC proves its commitment to empowering athletes not only in sport, but also as leaders and voices of change.”
Through initiatives like this, the APC reaffirms its belief that athlete empowerment goes far beyond competition — sending a strong message of hope and possibility across Asia and beyond.
