Valary Olesia is no stranger to overcoming challenges. As an assistive technology computer instructor with inABLE Africa, based at Thika School for the Blind, she has spent the last two years empowering youth with visual impairments through assistive technology. Her journey, however, took an exciting new turn when she ventured into the world of competitive sports—specifically, powerlifting. 

Powerlifting, a sport that involves three key lifts (squat, bench press, and deadlift), demands immense strength, determination, and discipline. Through a highly competitive selection process, Valary secured a place to represent Kenya in the IBSA World Championships 2024 in Astana, Kazakhstan. “It was a dream come true to be selected for such a prestigious competition,” she reflects. “The training was intense, but I was determined to give my best.” 

Under the guidance of her coach, David Miduda, Valary and her fellow athletes participated in a rigorous training camp at Nyayo Stadium. “Coach Miduda trained us vigorously in both the mornings and evenings. His dedication pushed us to our limits, and I’m grateful for the invaluable skills I gained,” she says. 

The IBSA World Championships took place over two weeks, with the first week dedicated to local training and coaching, followed by the international competition in Astana. The journey to Kazakhstan wasn’t an easy one—it involved nearly 24 hours of travel, including a stopover in Ethiopia to process visas, and connections through Dubai before arriving in Astana. 

Valary was one of nine athletes representing Kenya—five men and four women. Competitors were divided into categories based on their sight status and weight class. Valerie competed in the B2 category for athletes with low vision, in the under 82 kg weight division. “I competed on the second day of the competition, lifting in all three categories—bench press, deadlift, and squat,” she recalls. In an extraordinary performance, Valary won silver medals in all three categories, bringing home four silver medals and securing her position as the top athlete in Africa. 

Valary shares her biggest takeaway from the competition: “You have to love the sport and focus on achieving a good lift, no matter the weight. I learned that the impossible becomes possible with the right mindset. Determination, sacrifice, dedication, and discipline are essential values in this game.” 

The support Valary and her fellow athletes received from the Kenyan government played a crucial role in their success. “The government of Kenya ensured full facilitation for us, from hosting us in residential training camps to covering our air tickets to and from Astana. Competing in such an international arena was a tremendous opportunity,” Valerie says. 

She also highlights the importance of parasports as a pathway to livelihood and career development. “Sports are inclusive, and there are many opportunities for persons with disabilities. I believe that inABLE can further diversify its impact by nurturing young talents in sports, just as we do with assistive technology programs. We could start by organizing a fun day for students to compete in sports, creating a new avenue for their growth,” she suggests. 

Valary’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and the belief that anything is possible. She continues to inspire not only through her work with inABLE but also as a role model in the sports arena, demonstrating that barriers can be overcome with the right support and mindset. 

Written by Valary Olesia, inABLE’s Computer Instructor and Lily Ronoh-Waweru, Strategic Communications Specialist