Princess Charlene, South Africa’s own royal and Honorary President of Special Olympics Monaco since 2012, recently paid tribute to Mireille Calmes.
Mireille Calmes is the visionary founder of Special Olympics Monaco.
PRINCESS CHARLENE CELEBRATES LEGACY
The ceremony took place at Stade Louis II in Monaco, according to UFO No More.
Princess Charlene unveiled a commemorative plaque celebrating Calmes’ enduring legacy.
This event highlighted Calmes’ pivotal role in making Monaco one of the first European countries, alongside Belgium and Ireland, to join the global Special Olympics movement.
WHO WAS MIREILLE CALMES?
Mireille Calmes dedicated over 40 years to advancing inclusion through sport. Calmes fostered opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities to participate in international competitions.
The tribute gathered athletes, officials, and members of the Calmes family, emphasising the values of solidarity, determination, and self-improvement.
These are principles Princess Charlene deeply embodies and champions.
THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS
Princess Charlene’s involvement in Special Olympics reflects her commitment to promoting sports inclusivity and empowerment of people with disabilities.
South Africa, like Monaco, values sport as a unifying social force and an enabler of equal opportunity.
Charlene’s dual connection to both countries strengthens the global network advocating for disability rights and inclusive sport.
This may inspire South African efforts to increase accessibility and support for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
PRINCESS CHARLENE ON THE WORLD STAGE
The tribute also reinforces Charlene’s prominent role on the world stage, not only as a royal figure but as an advocate for social change through sport.
Princess Charlene’s continued dedication to the Special Olympics and events like this tribute to Mireille Calmes amplify the message of inclusion.
This is especially so for people with disabilities in sports worldwide, resonating powerfully with South African values and aspirations for equal opportunity in all arenas.
Princess Charlene’s legacy extends far beyond Monaco. It inspires a global movement of inclusion and empowerment that motivates South Africans and others to champion equality and dignity through sport.