A father supports his son on and off the field

“I am Saif Bin Sumaida, a retired senior engineer from ADNOC Gas Company. God blessed me with four sons and two daughters. We discovered that one of our sons, Ali, was autistic when he was four years old and had struggled a lot with his speech while growing up. We enrolled him in speech therapy sessions at the Center New England to help him work on this matter.

After getting Ali involved in all-round sports with Special Olympics at the age of six, he began participating in equestrian activities, soccer, and golf. At the age of 15, he competed in Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019. We supported and encouraged him by attending his training sessions as he prepared for the Abu Dhabi Games and cheering him on from afar during competitions.

As for my role with my family, my previous work schedule was one month on and one month off. With this schedule, I tried to stay in touch with my family through calls and check up on their health as much as possible.

During my month off, I would make up for my absence by spending time at home, especially in the afternoon. We would eat breakfast together in the morning before school, lunch together in the afternoon, and I would help them with their homework, too. In the evening, I left it for my children to spend it however they wanted.

Even after I retired, my children were never far from my mind. I know their hobbies – they love electronic games – and I will try to get them into other habits by going out on family outings and making sure they are part of sports clubs, such as Special Olympics.

Breaking Barriers: Ali’s Inspiring Journey

Ali, a strong-willed 19-year-old, has been making waves in Special Olympics since 2019. His journey of perseverance and success is a testament to the power of dedication and support. As an avid golfer, Ali’s commitment to his sporting and community roles demonstrates his leadership and incredible spirit.

Rise through the ranks

Ali’s involvement with Special Olympics began in 2019. His talents and leadership qualities quickly became evident, earning him prestigious positions such as Chairman of the Special Olympics UAE Youth Leaders Council and member of the Athlete Leaders Council. His participation in the Special Olympics Games in the UAE (2019). Berlin (2023) Highlights his dedication. Alongside his sporting endeavours, Ali represented the UAE as an ambassador, attending the Regional Young Leaders Conference in Cairo in December 2023.

Balancing Law: Sports, Studies and Family

In addition to his achievements on the field, Ali maintains a full life full of diverse interests and responsibilities. In his spare time, he enjoys soccer, table tennis, volleyball, and volunteering as a sports supervisor. His daily routine is a good balance between academic activities and physical training. In the morning, Ali focuses hard on his business studies at university. The afternoon is devoted to fitness training at home and his younger brother’s soccer training. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in managing household errands, from buying groceries to running bakeries.

Facing challenges head on

Ali’s journey was not without challenges. His father, Mr. Saif, proudly acknowledges Ali’s achievements but also highlights the obstacles they face. Incorporating Ali into the community and into Special Olympics World, helping him accept victory and defeat, and fully integrating him into the school in 2019, were significant accomplishments. Ensuring Ali’s success at university required the provision of a shadow assistant, a testament to their unwavering commitment.

Celebrating successes

Ali’s achievements are truly inspiring. He won silver medals at the 2019 and 2023 Special Olympics World Games, and his academic prowess is evident in his impressive score of 94.6% in the 2023 secondary school final examinations. His seamless integration into university life, and active interaction with students, faculty and administrative staff, demonstrates his ability Adapt and design.

A bright future ahead

The bond within Ali’s family is characterized by love and understanding, which fosters an environment in which Ali thrives. Looking to the future, Ali aspires to be a voice for people of determination, advocating for their needs and helping them achieve their potential.

Mr. Saif offers profound advice to families of people of determination: “The real disability is when a person sees himself as incapable of thinking and developing.”

Ali’s story is a powerful reminder that with perseverance, support and ambition, any obstacle can be overcome. His journey continues to inspire, uplift, break barriers, and set new standards of excellence.