Oluka Jeremiah

Jeremiah’s Story: How Sports Transformed My Life.

My name is Oluka Jeremiah, a 28-year-old Ugandan with a physical impairment, but with a sound mind. My journey has been shaped by resilience, education, and most importantly sports. Through my involvement with Ability Sports Africa (ASA), I have discovered the transformative power of sports, not just for myself but for countless children and youth with disabilities in Northern Uganda. 

 A Childhood of Challenges and Triumphs.

Growing up with a physical disability, I faced discrimination, exclusion, and societal stigma. Simple things like accessing classrooms or participating in games were often denied to me. But at the age of 12, I found my escape. Though I relied on a wheelchair and walking sticks, I became the goalkeeper for my school football team. My teammates nicknamed me “Degea” after the legendary Manchester United goalkeeper; a name that replaced the labels of “disabled” or “incapable.” For the first time, I felt seen, valued, and strong. 

Sports gave me more than physical strength; it built my confidence, self-esteem, and sense of belonging. In secondary school, I became the top-performing student among peers with disabilities, proving that exclusion could not define my potential. At Gulu University, I channeled this confidence into leadership, serving as the state minister for Students with Disabilities and advocating for inclusive policies. 

Sports as a Catalyst for Change in my life.

At university, I joined the Ability Sports team and competed in wheelchair races, helping my team win a Paralympic trophy. This victory was more than a medal; it was proof that disability does not limit ability. Today, as a Social Worker Volunteer with Ability Sports Africa, I use sports to empower children and youth with disabilities. Through adaptive basketball, boccia, blind goalball, and other inclusive games, I witness daily how sports: 

• Build Confidence: Children who once hid from society now stand tall, proud of their abilities. 
• Foster Inclusion: Sports break barriers, uniting participants with and without disabilities. 
• Develop Life Skills: Teamwork, leadership, and resilience learned on the field translate into everyday success. 
• Challenge Stereotypes: Families and communities are redefining what disability means. 

My Vision for the Future

My story is not unique: it’s a chapter to what is possible when we create opportunities for all. At ASA, I work tirelessly to ensure no child feels the isolation I once did. Sports are not just games; they are tools for social change, healing, and empowerment. 

I dream of an Africa where every child with a disability has access to sports, education, and the chance to thrive. With organizations like ASA, communities, and government working together, we can turn this dream into reality. 

“Sports saved me. Now, I’m using them to save others”