Para Football Contributes to Inaugural AFC Dream Asia Foundation Conference 2025
Para Football Contributes to Inaugural AFC Dream Asia Foundation Conference 2025
Riyadh, 15 October 2025 — Para Football were proudly invited as a guest speaker for the inaugural AFC Dream Asia Foundation Conference 2025, held in Riyadh under the banner of “Football for the Goals: Empowering Communities through the Beautiful Game.” The event marked a milestone in the Asian Football Confederation’s ongoing commitment to social responsibility, inclusion, and sustainable development.
Representing Para Football, Sam Turner joined the discussion panel “Football for Everyone: Creating Pathways for All,” sharing insights on how inclusive football programmes can break down barriers and create meaningful participation opportunities for players of all abilities. Turner highlighted the importance of collaboration between governing bodies, community organisations, and the disability sport sector to ensure football is accessible for everyone.
The Conference, hosted by the AFC Dream Asia Foundation in collaboration with the United Nations Football for the Goals initiative, brought together leaders from across Asia to explore how football can drive positive social impact. The sessions covered key areas including accessibility, equality, sustainability, and capacity building within football development structures.
Vahid Kardany, Secretary to the AFC Dream Asia Foundation, shared:
"We would like to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude for your invaluable contribution as a panellist at the headlined Conference. Your expertise on the topic of “Football for Everyone: Creating Pathways for All,” offered a fresh perspective that captivated our audience and sparked meaningful discussions, greatly enhancing their overall experience.
Additionally, your contribution was pivotal to the success of the Conference, and we look forward to collaborating with you again in the future."
Key Outcomes
- Strengthened commitment to inclusion and accessibility across all AFC member associations.
- Shared best practices and frameworks for developing inclusive football pathways.
- Renewed collaboration between Para Football and AFC stakeholders to enhance opportunities for persons with disabilities through the sport.
Acknowledgements
Para Football extends its heartfelt thanks to:
- AFC President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, for his continued leadership and vision in championing football for all.
- AFC Deputy General Secretary Vahid Kardany, for ongoing support and advocacy of inclusive football initiatives.
- The AFC Dream Asia Foundation and it's Board of Trustees, for their dedication to driving social change through football and for hosting this landmark event.
- All staff and partners at the AFC, whose commitment and passion made the Conference a resounding success.
Para Football looks forward to building on the outcomes of this historic gathering and strengthening partnerships across Asia to ensure that every player, regardless of ability, has access to the game we all love.
