Para-athlete from Amazonas overcomes barriers and shows the importance of inclusion in sport
In 2022, Camilli Vitória won the title of Brazilian Para Athletics Champion
Manaus (AM) – The month of September has inclusion and equal opportunities for people with disabilities as one of its banners. In Amazonas, Camilli Vitória da Silva is one of the people with disabilities who has overcome challenges and achieved significant victories on the national sporting scene.
“Camili is an example of how sport can be a powerful tool to promote inclusion and empower people with disabilities” highlighted Jorge Oliveira, secretary of the State Secretariat for Sports and Leisure (Sedel).
Camilli Vitória da Silva, visually impaired, who began her journey in para-athletics at the age of 16, dreams of winning a world championship.
“Athletics is very important to me. Through sport I made new friends, improved my social life and discovered what inclusion truly is,”
she said.
Currently 20 years old, the para-athlete from Amazonas who trains at the Manaus Olympic Village has been a standout representing Amazonas well. In 2022, Camilli Vitória won the title of Brazilian Para Athletics Champion. And in May this year, she reached first place in the 1500 and 400 meter events at the Basa Para Athletics Meeting, held for the first time in Manaus.
Aricélio Ramos, Camilli’s guide athlete for two years, talks about the para-athlete’s evolution and the importance of the sport.
“Camilli was very shy, now she is super communicative. Sport helps the inclusion of people with disabilities and personal development, it makes the individual believe in themselves. In addition to developing autonomy and confidence”,
states.
Camilli’s mother, Dalzileia Souza, speaks with pride about her daughter’s journey in sport. “I had a certain concern, but Camilli was always encouraged to learn, she is very dedicated, a very happy and determined girl. I am very proud of her, and the feeling of concern that I had before I no longer have,” she declared.
*With information from consultancy
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