Turin2025: Global Coalition for Inclusion with Shawn Ferguson

On this episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast Series: “A Recap of Turin 2025,” Daniel Smrokowski sits down with Shawn Ferguson, the Chief of Global Government Relations at Special Olympics , to explore the mission and impact of the Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion . The Coalition is uniting global leaders, governments, and advocates to drive systemic change for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Together, they are working to create a more inclusive world through sport, education, and social integration.

Shawn takes us behind the scenes of this important global initiative, discussing its origin, growth, and the key milestones in the Coalition's journey. We learn about the significance of the Coalition's gathering during the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy, and how it has elevated the mission of inclusion on the world stage.

Through Unified Schools® and Unified Sports®, the Coalition is transforming classrooms and communities, making inclusive education and social cohesion a reality. Shawn shares powerful success stories, highlights the importance of financial investment in sustainable change, and explains how public-private partnerships are creating long-term solutions for individuals with IDD.

As the Coalition expands, Shawn outlines the challenges they face, how they measure success, and the future of inclusive education and systemic change. He also encourages individuals and organizations to get involved and make a difference.

If you're passionate about inclusion and want to learn how we can all contribute to a world where individuals with intellectual disabilities are celebrated and respected, this episode is for you!

Topics Covered in This Episode:

• What is the Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion?
• The significance of the Coalition's gathering during the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy.
• Key milestones and global impact of the Coalition.
• The role of governments, multilateral organizations, civil society, and the private sector in driving inclusion.
• Success stories and transformative examples from the Coalition's work.
• The importance of Unified Schools® and Unified Sports® in fostering inclusion.
• How financial investments are helping to make inclusive education a tangible reality.
• The role of public-private partnerships in driving sustainable change.
• Overcoming challenges in advancing systemic change for people with IDD.
• How the Coalition measures success and evaluates its impact.
• The future of the Special Olympics Global Coalition for Inclusion and how you can get involved.

Listen now to hear Shawn’s insights on this transformative global initiative and how you can be part of creating lasting change for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Episode 770 ShowNotes & Links: SpecialChronicles.com/Podcast770

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