The third edition of the Miradas Compartidas Olympics took place at the Antofagasta School Sports Complex, drawing more than 400 participants from various districts, including Tocopilla, María Elena, San Pedro de Atacama, Pozo Almonte, and Antofagasta. The event was organized by Fundación Miradas Compartidas in partnership with SQM Iodine Plant Nutrition and the Antofagasta Municipal Sports and Recreation Department (CMDR).
Since the launch of the event, SQM Iodine Plant Nutrition has been a key partner, supporting the initiative to use sports as a means of promoting inclusion and social integration. The event was hosted by well-known TV personality Angélica Castro and featured a day filled with energy, sports, and community spirit. Competitions included soccer, swimming, and gymkhana activities, all aimed at enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities by fostering an environment of equality and companionship.
Fostering Inclusion Through Sports
Inclusion is a core value for SQM Iodine Plant Nutrition, and this event aligns with its commitment to contributing positively to the communities it serves. Pablo Pisani, Corporate Affairs Manager for SQM Iodine Plant Nutrition, highlighted the significance of the initiative, stating, “This event reflects our ongoing efforts throughout the year across different regions. Inclusion achieves what other programs cannot by actively involving both our workers and the community. It is a deeply meaningful value within our organization, and we take pride in promoting it.”
Felipe Olavarría, CEO of Fundación Miradas Compartidas, emphasized the event’s importance as it concludes the foundation’s recreational activities for people with disabilities across various regions. “The most significant aspect is how this activity brings together company employees and our students, showcasing that inclusion can be both enriching and enjoyable,” he remarked.
Braulio Otárola, Executive Director of CMDR Antofagasta, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “We’ve hosted many events at the School Sports Complex, but these games are particularly heartwarming for us. Our mission includes integrating people with disabilities and creating a connection between them and the companies that support the foundation, making opportunities like this possible in our region.”
The initiative underscores the strong, shared commitment of the participating organizations to advancing social inclusion in the Antofagasta Region. It aims to generate meaningful opportunities to improve the lives of people with disabilities and encourage their active participation in society.