Beyond the Track
Beyond the Track: How the Paralympics Powers Disability Innovation and Global Change
With Paris 2024 still fresh in our memories and the road to Los Angeles 2028 ahead, we asked leaders from the Global Disability Innovation Hub and key figures across the disability movement on what the Paralympics means to them. Their answers show how the Games influence everything from city planning to space exploration.
More Than a Sporting Event
“The Paralympics is not just about sport; it is about people living their best lives,” says Cara Yar Khan, Senior Advisor. “It is a global opportunity to shift perceptions, challenge stereotypes, and spark essential conversations about accessibility, inclusive education, and employment.”
When disability is placed on a stage of global significance, the world’s focus widens to the broader inclusion agenda. Good representation proves that accessibility and innovation benefit everyone.
Driving Investment Through Visibility
Victoria Austin, GDI Hub co-founder and Associate Professor at UCL, has seen investment follow that visibility ever since London 2012.
“The Paralympics is the third largest sporting event on the planet. It changes the cities that host it, bringing people together and shifting culture. Because of that visibility, we have attracted significant investment into disability innovation, from inclusive tech to accessible infrastructure.”
A Platform for Bold Ideas
For Ian McKinnon, CEO of GDI Hub, the Games propel creativity beyond sport.
“The Paralympics transforms lives and inspires confidence and creativity. Businesses must match public investment in disability innovation if we want an inclusive future.”
He urges companies and investors to harness Paralympic momentum to accelerate assistive technology and universal design.
Inspiration That Reaches Space
Former Paralympian John McFall now trains with the European Space Agency.
“The Paralympics thrust equality and diversity into the spotlight. It made me believe that someone with a physical disability could reach for the stars, literally.”
His journey from the track to the launchpad shows how elite sport reshapes expectations of what disabled professionals can achieve in science, engineering, and beyond.
From Momentum to Lasting Change
All four voices echo a single theme: the Paralympics is a catalyst that must be matched with action.
“The Paralympics shows we do not have to accept the status quo,” Cara says. “We can imagine and build a society where everyone has the tools and opportunities to thrive.”
As we count down to LA 2028, the message is clear. Invest boldly, design inclusively, and keep expanding the limits of what is possible for sport, for technology, and for the human spirit.