Family engagement is more than attending events—it’s about taking an active role in helping the development of Special Olympics athletes and Programs. Meet Global Family Leadership Council (GFLC) chairman Nauman Mehboob. Nauman is a proud father of three Special Olympics athletes; Hammad, Tanuzzah, and Talha, and became involved with Special Olympics (SO) Pakistan in 2014 where he served as a dedicated volunteer.
The GFLC serves as the collective voice of families within the Special Olympics movement worldwide. Its mission is to represent, support, and advocate for families across all Regions, helping to shape and strengthen global family engagement. The Council is comprised of seven dedicated members, one from each Region, with each member serving a three-year term.
This month, we’re sharing part two of a global series highlighting the seven members of the GFLC and their connection to health. Below, Nauman shares his perspective on how family engagement not only brings immense joy, but also helps families grow physically, socially, and emotionally.
Nauman Mehboob – Special Olympics Pakistan – Parent
Photo by Zunair
My name is Nauman Mehboob, and I share a journey like many of you. I am a proud parent of three children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), which has fueled my passion for the Special Olympics movement since 2014.
After nearly 11 years of active participation, I now serve as the National Coordinator for the Family Support Network of Special Olympics (SO) Pakistan, represent the Family Support Network at Special Olympics Asia Pacific, and honored to be the Global Family Leadership Council (GFLC) chairman. This role enables me to encourage families to volunteer together at Special Olympics events or in the community and empower parents, siblings, and caregivers to advocate for families across all regions.
Our children faced significant challenges growing up. They were socially introverted, often the targets of bullying, and preferred to stay in their world rather than engage in social activities or sports. Additionally, the lack of awareness about IDD led us to a complex situation with our first two children.
We didn’t know how to cope with the situation. Faced with society’s enormous pressure, which often included misconceptions and stigmatization, social isolation puzzled us as to how to raise them and help them grow to be independent. It was essential to emerge from the shock quickly and exert our efforts to make them as independent as possible.
Enrolling our children in SO Pakistan was a turning point. The team and the dedicated coaches worked tirelessly on their skills and introduced and ignited their passion for sports. Hammad and Tanuzzah’s selection for the 2015 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Los Angeles and the 2019 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Abu Dhabi, and Talha’s journey as a Special Olympics Young Athlete with SO Pakistan are potent examples of the transformative power of Special Olympics, instilling hope and inspiration in us all.
The supportive social environment of the camps provided by SO Pakistan brought about significant changes in their social behavior, instilling a sense of hope and optimism. Their confidence grew, and they actively participated in summits, trainings, and conferences organized by SO Pakistan as Athlete Leaders.
The journey with Special Olympics also transformed our lives as parents. As parents and volunteers, we were initially involved in Special Olympics Health programming, including Family Health Forums, Special Olympics Healthy Athletes®, Young Athletes, the Family Support Network, and Fitness Programs including Fit 5 as well as the Family Health Advisory Committee. Here, we got the opportunity and support from SO Pakistan and the Asia Pacific region to be a part of the journey to empower parents, siblings, and family members of individuals with IDD to raise awareness, be family leaders and volunteers, and recruit families for the Special Olympics movement while serving as a support system for each other and athletes.
Through Special Olympics Health programming, the most valuable lesson we’ve learned is the importance of adopting a holistic approach to health-balancing physical activity, nutritious eating, mental well-being, and positive social interactions. This knowledge has empowered our entire family to make healthier lifestyle choices, manage stress more effectively, and support each other in leading more active, confident, and fulfilling lives.
We want families to understand that this is a lifelong journey we embrace. We are the chosen ones—called to lead with strength, optimism, and purpose. Early intervention is key. Accept the challenge with a smile, raise awareness, and prepare your children to thrive in an inclusive world. Foster their independence and belief in the power of inclusion, even before the world fully recognizes it.
Every individual has a voice that matters and a talent worth celebrating. There will be challenges—but also profound moments of joy, courage, and transformation. Surround yourselves with those who lead with empathy. Let every act of support remind you that dignity and respect are more powerful than any prize.
As families, you are not only shaping lives—you are building a more inclusive and compassionate world. Your role is vital, and your impact is extraordinary.
Explore more advice, stories, observations, and tips from Special Olympics families and program leaders around the world by checking out Special Olympics’ Effective Family Engagement Handbook.
