We are pleased to announce that Helder Araújo, President of the Brazilian Confederation of Sports for the Visually Impaired, has been appointed as a co-opted member of the Executive Committee of the International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA).

Araújo brings extensive experience in the field of sports for people with visual impairments and is one of the leading figures in this area in South America. His appointment to the IBSA Executive Committee marks an important step in strengthening the organization’s ties with regions of the world where sports for the blind and visually impaired are developing with great efforts.

“We are confident that Helder’s involvement will bring new ideas and perspectives, strengthen our connections with Latin American countries, and help make our committee more diverse and inclusive,” said IBSA President Ilgar Rahimov.

Helder Araújo has been actively involved in initiatives aimed at the development and promotion of sports for people with visual impairments in Brazil and beyond. His leadership and dedication to blind sports will make a significant contribution to the continued growth of IBSA and its international projects.

Helder said upon learning of his appointment: “I am delighted and honoured to accept the invitation, and the IBSA Board has placed its trust in me. Since 2023, under its new Board and leadership, IBSA has acknowledged that too much time and energy were wasted in the past. Now, with a comprehensive review of its governance, management, and services underway, I am excited to be part of this important sports organization’s reformation to reinforce its vision to serve blind and visually impaired athletes—both those we currently serve and those we have yet to reach.”