SISF awardee Khongorzul Batsukh’s journey and project illustrate the transformative power of dedication and vision. Her innovative project, ‘Special Olympics’ breaks barriers for children with disabilities and ignites a spark of inclusive change in her community. She grew up in the Khovd province of Mongolia. Raised by an indigenous family of herders called Altai Uriankhai, Khongorzul was influenced by the raw beauty of nature around her and the challenges it brought on. This upbringing instilled in her the values of perseverance, dedication, and kindness. Most importantly, it taught her the power of skill and knowledge sharing.
Path to Leadership
Her leadership journey began with an array of volunteer positions at notable organizations. Driven to contribute to her community, she volunteered with organizations such as Amnesty International Mongolia, Mongolian Red Cross Society, Education USA Mongolia, and the Mongolian Women’s Fund.
Joining the Aspire Leaders program was one of the best decisions I have ever made
These experiences, along with experiences at Save the Children in Mongolia and local NGOs, broadened her perspectives, aided her professional development, and began to shape her understanding of leadership. This understanding was complemented by the Aspire Leaders Program.
“Joining the Aspire Leaders program was one of the best decisions I have ever made,” she shared. The program allowed her to evaluate her strengths and areas for improvement, instilling in her a profound sense of purpose and empowerment.
One of the most valuable aspects of the Aspire Leaders Program (ALP) was the opportunity to translate leadership theory into practical application. This led her to apply for the Social Impact Seed Funding (SISF) with a project for children with disabilities in rural areas like her community.
Making an Impact: The ‘Special Olympics’ Project
Inspired by a visit to a center for disabled children during her volunteer experience, she designed a project to empower children with disabilities through sports. Her goal was to create an inclusive environment where these children could experience the joy of sports and physical fitness.
Implementing the Special Olympics in her community proved to be an eye-opening experience. “Watching the disabled children enjoy themselves playing basketball, volleyball, bocce, and badminton helped me understand that we are more alike than we are different,” she reflected. The project not only benefited the children but also instilled in her a deeper appreciation for human diversity.
The impact of such an innovative endeavor extended beyond the children to their parents as well. Seeing the parent’s reaction to their children developing new skills, and becoming more social was, in her words, “priceless.”
Looking to the future
With the success of her Special Olympics project, Khongorzul has planted the seed of inclusion in her community. She credits the Aspire Institute for making this possible and looks forward to continuing her journey as a leader.
“I hope to continue making a positive impact through my work and carry on strengthening my capacity and knowledge,” she stated. Her vision for the future is clear: to be an effective leader and transformer, implementing projects that resolve issues in her community, nation, and eventually, the world.
