Indian 'Games Maker' from Dubai shines in Rio

Dubai - Sulaiman had dreamt of participating in the Olympics since he was 8 years old, but his athletic prowess didn't match up. Not one to give up, he kept his options open

Ahamed Sulaiman is the only Indian from Dubai to have been selected as a 'Games Maker' for both the Olympic Games and the Summer Paralympics at Rio de Janeiro in 2016.
The 40-year-old Sulaiman has made a mark with his hard work and achievements there. Being a Games Maker involves doing volunteer work at the sporting events, as part of the staff who do the field arrangements and coordination tasks. His roles in Rio include arranging the main arena for competitions along with the organising team, supporting officials in various activities, shifting materials to the main arena from warehouses, and handling the gate access control.
Earlier, in 2012, he couldn't participate at the London Paralympics because of visa issues.
A welfare officer and event coordinator hailing from a small town in Tamil Nadu state, India, Sulaiman has been working in Dubai for the last 12 years. Apart from his regular job, he also works with SmartLife, the NGO that assists blue collar workers here.
An Olympic dream come true
Sulaiman had dreamt of participating in the Olympics since he was 8 years old, but his athletic prowess couldn't surpass the state-levels in India. Not one to give up, he kept his options open and chose to work as a Games Maker when offered the opportunity this year. He has also worked for various marathons in the UAE.
While speaking to Khaleej Times, Sulaiman revealed how his autistic brother also inspired him in his journey. "My youngest brother is differently abled', he is an angel sent by God and he is the one who has motivated to go and help out at the Paralympics. I'm happy to be able to volunteer at Rio this year," Sulaiman said.
"It's an emotional moment for me and I am very satisfied with the job I am doing here. I believe that if we respect what we do, it starts giving you back the respect you deserve. I am also missing my family in India and I want to thank each and every one of them for their love and support. I am also thankful to my company, ETA group of companies in Dubai, who made it possible for me and helped me in making it here."
After his duties at Rio (the Paralympics ends on September 18), Sulaiman wants to work towards improving the conditions of blue collar workers in Dubai by helping and supporting them in every possible way.
ankita@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE