Dr. Olesya Zaglada at the 17th International Symposium for Olympic and Paralympic Research in Italy

February 18th marked the opening of the 17th International Symposium for Olympic and Paralympic Research, held at the University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”. The Symposium is taking place in Italy as the country prepares to host the Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games Milano Cortina 2026.

Leading professors and researchers in Olympic and Paralympic studies have gathered in Naples from all over the world to participate in the Symposium.

Mr. Domenico De Maio, Education and Culture Director of Milano Cortina 2026, spoke about the educational programs that will help build the legacy of the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Games. For example, the I’mPOSSIBLE project tells the story and evolution of the Paralympic Movement and aims to raise awareness, especially among younger generations, about the rights of people with disabilities.

This project of the International Paralympic Committee was presented in Cortina d’Ampezzo on 6 March 2025 during the “One Year to Go” event for the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Games.
https://it.pg.com/campioni-ogni-giorno/

I’mPOSSIBLE consists of a range of easy-to-use lessons for learners aged 6–18, introducing them to inclusion through the Paralympic values, Para sports, and the inspirational achievements of Para athletes from around the world.

Using Para athletes’ stories, I’mPOSSIBLE  I’mPOSSIBLE | IPC:

• demonstrates to young people that with determination and courage, inspired by Para athletes, they can achieve the impossible in their own lives;
• challenges learners’ perceptions and attitudes towards people with disabilities, helping to build a more inclusive and equitable society;
• provides teachers with recommendations on how to make physical education more inclusive.

Thus, through inclusive education, I’mPOSSIBLE changes perceptions of people with disabilities and supports the development of a more inclusive society.

On February 19th, 2026, Dr. Olesya Zaglada is looking forward to the second day of the Symposium, which will feature a special Paralympic Session.