Celebrating Canadian Leadership at the Women in Para Sport Americas Summit

The city of Cuernavaca, Mexico, is hosting the Women in Para Sport Americas Summit (July 31 – August 2), a groundbreaking international gathering to promote female leadership and inclusion in Para sport.

Organized by the Americas Paralympic Committee (AmPC) in collaboration with the Mexican Paralympic Committee (COPAME), the Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC), and with strong support from the Government of Morelos, the Summit brings together 26 women from 21 National Paralympic Committees across the Americas.

Among the featured presenters are two Canadian leaders: Karen O’Neill, Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Paralympic Committee, and Catherine Gosselin-Després, Chief Sport Officer, Canadian Paralympic Committee. Their participation signals Canada’s deep and ongoing commitment to advancing equity, empowerment, and inclusion in Para sport.

“Events like this Summit are critical for creating lasting change across the Paralympic Movement,” said Karen O’Neill, Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Paralympic Committee. “They provide the space to build connections, share best practices, and foster the next generation of women leaders in Para sport. I’m honoured to be here alongside so many inspiring women who are shaping the future of sport across the Americas.”

With workshops, panels, and simultaneous working sessions, the Summit covers themes such as leadership, self-care, professional networking, community empowerment, and intergenerational mentoring. For Catherine Gosselin-Després, these themes reflect the values at the heart of the CPC’s mission.

“We believe that inclusive sport environments must be led by diverse voices and perspectives,” said Gosselin-Després. “At the Summit, we’re celebrating those who are already leading change but also creating the support system that will help women across the Americas thrive in every role in Para sport, from athletes to executives.”

This marks a significant step in reinforcing the CPC’s leadership across the Americas, not only in the performance arena but in championing inclusive values. The Canadian delegation’s contributions are part of a broader effort to create pathways for women to succeed at all levels of Para sport.

Held with the support of the Government of Morelos through the Institute of Sports and Physical Culture (INDEM), the Summit has worked with region leaders to create an emphasis on collaboration and empowerment. As CPC continues to lead and support such global initiatives, its impact resonates far beyond the field of play.

“Canada is proud to stand alongside our partners in Mexico and throughout the Americas,” added O’Neill. “Together, we are building a more inclusive, representative, and vibrant future for Para sport.”

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