Disability, innovation and the power of Paralympic legacy – a reception to remember at the British ambassador's residence to mark the start of the 2024 Paris Paralympics

As the first day of sport kicked off in Paris, and crowds around the city streamed into venues to cheer Paralympians in action, the Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) and Dame Menna Rawlings - British Ambassador to France – were delighted to welcome esteemed guests to the 'Beyond Sport' panel and reception to explore disability, innovation and the power of Paralympic legacy.   

Dame Menna Rawlings - British Ambassador to France.

Guests from across the worlds of sport, disability, inclusion and technology joined leaders from Intergovernmental Organisations, Business, Disabled Peoples Organisations and emerging innovators to share in the power of the Paralympic legacy, and how sport and culture can unite visionary leadership and innovative thinking to change lives and drive impact globally.  

Supported by the GREAT campaign, and the Global Disability Innovation Hub's UK aid funded AT2030 programme, the reception explored how London 2012 powered a disability innovation lens, and how the Paralympics and the visibility of Para Sport has enabled mechanisms for change on an international level. Opening addresses from Stephanie Peacock MP, the UK Minister for Sport, Media, Civil Society and Youth and Dame Menna Rawlings - British Ambassador to France – shared more on the impact of Paralympic sport and the power of sporting legacy to accelerate far-reaching impact.