Honouring Lenine Cunha’s Inspiring Leadership on International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Today, as we celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPwD), we shine a light on the powerful theme of “Amplifying Leadership by Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.”

Virtus Ambassador Lenine Cunha, one of the most decorated athletes with an intellectual impairment, personifies this theme through his groundbreaking achievements and relentless advocacy for inclusion. Lenine’s journey is a testament to the power of diverse leadership, marking a new chapter for athletes with disabilities everywhere.

With a legendary career, winning over 200 international medals, including a bronze at the London 2012 Paralympic Games, Lenine has established himself as a powerhouse in sports. However, his influence reaches far beyond his athletic record. As an active Virtus Ambassador, Lenine has mentored athletes globally, offering wisdom on competition, resilience, and making informed life choices.

Leadership isn’t new to Lenine. Since 2006, he’s been leading the Portuguese team as the team captain, rallying teammates with motivational talks and practical guidance before competitions to the athletes. In his native Portugal, Lenine often visits schools and universities, sharing his story to inspire others, particularly young people with disabilities.

“When I go to competitions, I’m the captain of the team, so I am a leader. With my experience, I try to help the coaches and the team leader, and I set an example for the athletes. When I speak to young people, I share my sports journey and my personal experiences with meningitis and how I came into sports, how sports changed my life and overcoming bullying. I want them to know that they can overcome anything.”

“I work at Decathlon in Portugal and I am not the team leader but I am one of the bestsellers and I always give advice to my colleagues on how to sell more products and many of them are following my footsteps now.”

Earlier this year, Lenine became the first athlete with an intellectual impairment to be elected to the IPC Athletes’ Council, a milestone that symbolizes progress for millions of athletes with intellectual impairments worldwide. Reflecting on his journey to the Council, Lenine admitted,

“I never imagined this level of recognition. When Virtus asked me if I wanted to be a candidate, I thought it was impossible. There were so many famous athletes, and I thought, ‘How could I possibly win? But when I saw the results, when I saw I  won with highest number of votes, I was overwhelmed. It was proof that our community wants representation that understands their experiences.”

During his campaign for the IPC Athletes’ Council, Lenine received widespread support from fellow athletes. “The reactions were overwhelmingly positive,” he shared. “Athletes from around the world were genuinely excited about having someone like me on the Council.” This level of enthusiasm, he says, strengthened his resolve to work for an inclusive future in sports.

Now a member of the IPC Athletes’ Council, Lenine is dedicated to advocating for athletes’ rights, expanding event opportunities, and supporting athletes in their post-competition careers. For Lenine, listening to athletes is the first step in effective leadership.

“We are the voice of the athletes. My focus is on what matters most to them, what issues they face, and what changes we need to address. I am still competing, so I know exactly how they feel, and I’m here to make their concerns heard.”

“Virtus launched an amazing campaign two years ago – #AthleteFirst. For me, #AthleteFirst isn’t just a campaign name, I believe that athletes are at the heart of everything we do. Without them, there would be no championships, no Paralympics. As leaders, we must stand for them and ensure their voices shape the future of sport.”

Lenine Cunha’s story illustrates how the leadership of persons with disabilities can foster a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable world. His journey demonstrates that diversity in leadership doesn’t just benefit those represented—it enriches everyone. With voices like Lenine’s shaping policies and promoting inclusivity, we’re building a future where everyone, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to lead, contribute, and inspire.

Today, as we celebrate IDPwD 2024, Lenine’s achievements remind us that amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities is not only necessary but transformative. Through his unwavering dedication, Lenine continues to pave the way for future generations, proving that a truly inclusive future is one that embraces the unique perspectives of all people.