Blind Journalist from Balkh Brings Message of Inclusion to Afghanistan Champions League

Sayed Mohammad Yazdanparast, a blind journalist from Balkh and an advocate for people with disabilities, has brought a message of inclusion and understanding to the Roshan Afghanistan Champions League in Kabul.

Yazdanparast, described as one of Afghanistan's first blind journalists, travelled from Balkh to the capital with several fellow members of the disability community to attend the football competition.

Their visit drew attention to the participation of people with disabilities in public sporting events and the importance of making such occasions welcoming and accessible to everyone.

Yazdanparast carried a copy of the Holy Quran and a traditional waistcoat associated with Afghanistan's culture of chivalry and generosity. The items were presented as symbols of solidarity, humanity and hope.

The Afghanistan Football Federation's leadership acknowledged the visitors' presence and contributions by presenting certificates of appreciation.

During the visit, Yazdanparast invited others to reflect on the everyday experiences of people living with disabilities.

“Just close your eyes for ten minutes and imagine that you cannot speak either. What would happen then?” he asked.

His question challenged people to consider the barriers that others encounter in daily life, including difficulties that may not be immediately visible to those without disabilities.

The visit also offered a reminder that following football and participating in sporting culture should not depend on a person's ability to see the action on the pitch.

For the football community, welcoming spectators and journalists with disabilities is part of a wider responsibility to make sport accessible, inclusive and open to all.