Final Day of the 17th International Symposium for Olympic and Paralympic Studies

The final day of the 17th International Symposium for Olympic and Paralympic Studies was marked by dynamic discussions, high-level scholarly exchange, and a continued celebration of the values and ideals underpinning the Olympic and Paralympic movements.

Olesya Zaglada delivered her presentation, “The Legacy of the Paralympic Games Through the History of the Paralympic Movement and Its Impact on the Lives of People with Disabilities,” during the session “Olympic/Paralympic Philosophy, Ethics & History.” Her research was met with strong interest and a warm reception from the international academic community in attendance.

The programme also featured several notable presentations addressing contemporary issues in Paralympic studies:

• Prof. Doiara Silva dos Santos – “Brazilian Women on Snow: Challenging Stereotypes in the Winter Olympics and Paralympics”
• Ms. Hajar Boukendil – “Beyond the Torch: Volunteers’ Experience at the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games”
• Prof. Alessandra Palermo – “TikTok for Olympic and Paralympic Values: A Case Study of the Italian Paralympic Committee (Paris 2024)”

Olesya Zaglada and Alice Maria Gallian Augusto, Legal Counsel at Brazilian Paralympic Committee.

In their closing remarks, organizers highlighted the Symposium’s academic significance and the depth of interdisciplinary dialogue it fostered among scholars from around the world. Participants noted the event’s contribution to advancing research in Olympic and Paralympic studies and strengthening international cooperation within the field.

The Symposium concluded with a formal Closing Banquet in Naples, providing an opportunity for continued professional networking in an informal setting. The evening celebrated not only the scholarly achievements presented over the course of the event, but also the shared commitment to the principles of inclusion, excellence, and global collaboration that define the Olympic and Paralympic spirit.

On the picture: Amber Nusser, Western University International Center for Olympic Studies (ICOS) Organization committee of the Symposium

Prof. Angela J. Schneider, OLY, Director of the ICOS 17th Symposium and Director of Western University’s International Center for Olympic Studies (ICOS)

Dr. Olesya Zaglada

May Keeble, Organization committee of the Symposium