Rio calling – Volunteering at the Paralympics

The 15th Summer Paralympics will start on September 7 in Rio. A total of 4,350 athletes from more than 160 countries will be competing in 23 disciplines. The Games will be broadcast in nearly 70 countries. Allianz has been partner of the International Paralympics Committee (IPC) for ten years now, with the goal of raising awareness and creating more equality in society with respect and equal opportunities for all.
 
Several Allianz employees will be taking active roles during the event. One of them is Gustavo Franca. As a Brazilian he is happy and proud to be part of the Paralympic story in the Marvelous City, which is what the Brazilians call Rio de Janeiro.
 
How did you first get involved with the Paralympics?
 
Gustavo Franca: I am very excited about the Diversity topic. That’s why I am currently working at the Global Diversity Office at Allianz SE. I participated in a meeting with the IPC, too, during which we discussed the cooperation between Brazil and Germany to foster inclusion through Paralympic sports.
 
For me the Paralympics are the perfect opportunity for people with disabilities to prove and show to the whole world that they have exceptional capabilities that go way beyond their disability.
 
What will be your job in Rio?
 
I was involved since the beginning with the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Rio. Back in 2015, I helped out with a recruiting team who was responsible for selecting other volunteers for the Games. Now during the Paralympic Games I will be an assistant with the ‘Paralympic Family’, helping National Paralympic Committees, athletes and officials during their stay in Rio.
 
What are your expectations – what are you looking forward to?
 
I am looking forward to the true miracles that will happen during the Paralympic Games! I am sure we will see records being broken, examples of dedication and outstanding achievements.
 
How does it feel to have your country host the games?
 
It is an honor to host the games even during a difficult economic recession and political instability, especially in the case of Paralympics. I was glad the Olympics opening ceremony went to well, despite a budget that was ten times lower than that of London 2012. A genuine smile, optimism and a collective will to make the best games go a long way, and Brazilians are quite passionate people who can unleash their creativity in order to deliver truly memorable Games.