Special Olympics rhythmic gymnast illuminates path to inclusion ahead of World Summer and Winter Games
Every Special Olympics World Games begins with a moment of profound significance—the lighting of the Flame of Hope™. At the heart of this sacred ritual stands Ilianna Simeonidi, a Special Olympics Hellas athlete and the honoured High Priestess of the ceremony.
Most recently, Illianna performed this prestigious role at the historic Zappeion Megaron in Athens, Greece, igniting the flame ahead of the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025. For Ilianna, this moment is more than tradition - it is a symbol of unity and acceptance.
“All humans, with or without disabilities, should form a unified hug.”
When Ilianna lights the Flame of Hope, she carries a powerful message. Her dream is to see a world where acceptance and equality are not aspirations but realities.
As High Priestess, Ilianna faced the challenge of mastering the precise movements and timing required for the ritual. “At first, it was difficult to hold the flame and learn the schedule of the Ceremony, but over time, I became more familiar with the process.”
Finding Passion in Sport
Ilianna’s journey with Special Olympics Hellas began when she first heard about the movement from her friends. Through years of dedication and exploration, she discovered her true passion in rhythmic gymnastics.
“It changed my life completely,” she said. Her love for gymnastics led her to compete on the world stage, participating in two Special Olympics World Games—Athens 2011 and Los Angeles 2015.
For Illianna, Special Olympics is not just about sports; it is about connection. Seeing athletes from all over the world come together fills her with love, joy, and immense pride.
One of her most cherished memories comes from Los Angeles 2015, where she was awarded medals, an experience that left an unforgettable mark on her heart. “This one-of-a-kind feeling I’ve felt at the time that I was awarded the medals... I will never forget it,” she recalled.
To young athletes with intellectual disabilities, Illianna offers simple yet profound advice: “Do what makes you happy, set goals, and try hard to achieve them.”
The Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 will be held in Italy from 8 – 15 March, with 1,500 athletes and Unified Partners from 100 nations competing across eight sports: alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, DanceSport, figure skating, floorball, short track speed skating, snowboard, snowshoeing.
