Hilmy Shawwal, a Lead Tutor from LMP Action Alternative Provision is set to compete in the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris taking place between 28 August and 8 September. The games will see more than 4,000 athletes from around the world competing in 549 medal events. The first Paralympic summer Games in the French capital will showcase 22 sports, including both individual and team sports. Hilmy is taking part in the Para Athletics T54 100m race on 4th September.

Hilmy spoke about his journey:

“As a young man with Spina Bifida, I have always believed that our greatest strengths often emerge from our biggest challenges. My journey to becoming a Paralympian is a testament to this belief. Having Spina Bifida has its challenges, but I have always embraced them. If I had not, I would not be where I am today.

My journey in athletics began when I was just 9 years old, competing in my manual wheelchair at school borough events for John Chilton School. At 15, I joined the Weir Archer Academy, an organisation set up by the legendary Paralympic duo David Weir and Jenny Archer in 2012. Their goal was to find and nurture the next generation of talent after the London Paralympics, and I was fortunate to be part of that initiative.

My life changed forever on Sunday, 14th July 2024, when I received a call from Tanzania. I was overwhelmed with joy to learn that I had been selected for the Paralympics 2024 in Paris. This selection is particularly significant as I will be the first-ever wheelchair racer to compete for Tanzania in the Paralympics. Tanzania is my mum’s birth country and representing them is a deeply personal and meaningful choice for me.

In my role as lead tutor at Ealing Alternative Provision, I use my experience to mentor the young people who attend. I am happy to share my journey with them, hoping to encourage them to work hard and reach for their dreams. I often tell them that anything is possible if you only try. My story serves as a living example of what can be achieved through determination and perseverance.”

Dee Todd, a colleague of Hilmy says “Hilmy is a great person to work with. His level of consistency and determination is truly second to none. To train every day and captain his academy as well as he does is a testament to how great he is. It’s an honour to work in such close quarters with a person like him; he motivates me to want to better myself every day with his positivity and outlook on everything.”

Hilmy goes on to say, “This moment fills me with immense pride, not just for myself, but for my friends, family, and the students I mentor who have supported me throughout this journey.” As I prepare for Paris 2024, I carry with me the hopes and dreams of my country and the aspirations of the young people I work with, ready to make history on the global Paralympic stage. My story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of seizing opportunities, no matter the challenges life presents.

LMP Alternative Provision Manager Bev Emmett says “The Alternative Provision team are so proud and right behind you Hilmy. We will be cheering Hilmy on very loudly and hoping that we see him on the podium, fingers crossed it is the top spot – Hilmy we wish you luck for your racing and hope that you enjoy the whole Para Olympic experience. Good luck from everyone at LMP and across SEG.”