Imagine the courage it takes to represent your nation on a global stage, carrying not just your own dreams, but the hopes of an entire community. This is the reality for two remarkable young para-athletes from Bhutan, set to compete at the Fifth Asian Youth Para Games in Dubai. Their stories are a powerful testament to the human spirit's resilience and the transformative power of sports.
The Games, taking place from December 7th to 14th, 2025, will host over 1,500 para-athletes aged 14 to 20 from more than 45 countries. It's a platform where young people with disabilities can showcase their abilities and inspire the world.
One of Bhutan's representatives is 17-year-old Ugyen Sonam Choden, a shot-putter from Thimphu. This event marks her international debut and her first trip abroad. She's a Class IX student at Yangchen Gatshel Higher Secondary School.
Alongside her is 14-year-old Cheyang Kuenchap, a wheelchair badminton player from Dagana. His journey into sports began unexpectedly, sparked by a viral video of him dancing. He's a Class IV student at Gesarling Central School.
Ugyen Sonam Choden is fueled by months of rigorous training and dreams of a top-three finish. She's excited to experience Dubai, a city she sees as a symbol of development. But here's where it gets controversial... Despite facing challenges related to her short stature and her parents' divorce, she remains undeterred. She credits her coach from the Bhutan Paralympic Committee, her school sports instructor, and the constant encouragement from her mother, principal, and teachers for her progress.
Ugyen's message to others with disabilities is simple yet profound: embrace who you are, pursue your passions, and never give up. Her coach, Tashi Jamtsho, highlights her remarkable improvement and anticipates that this experience will boost her confidence.
Cheyang Kuenchap, who has lower-limb impairments and uses a wheelchair, will compete in the WH2 classification, designed for players with strong upper-body and trunk control. He's been training in a wheelchair for two years and anticipates improved performance. He expresses his gratitude to his coach, the Bhutan Badminton Federation, the Bhutan Olympic Committee, and the Bhutan Paralympic Committee. And this is the part most people miss... He's been optimistic since birth, and he's also a talented painter, a skill he developed while studying at Draktsho School.
His coach, Dorji, recognized Cheyang's potential after seeing that viral video. With support from various organizations and Cheyang's parents, Dorji facilitated Cheyang's training, eventually moving him to Gesarling Central School to balance education and sports. Dorji's goal is to provide a platform for Cheyang to become an independent individual, emphasizing the opportunities sports can offer. Cheyang has previously competed in the Japan Para Badminton International 2024 and the Thailand Para Badminton International 2025.
The participation of these Bhutanese para-athletes is a significant step toward encouraging more young people with disabilities to engage in sports. It's a powerful message of hope and inclusion.
What do you think? Do you believe that sports can truly break down barriers and inspire individuals to achieve their full potential? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
