Press release - IOC PRESIDENT HIGLIGHTS THE IMPACT OF ARAB EXCELLENCE ON THE YOUTH IN MENA

Recognizing Arab Excellence’s impact on young people

Ahead of his historic visit to Morocco, International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach issued a press release highlighting Arab Excellence’s impact on young people across the MENA region.

A message from Thomas Bach

“It's important to have such role models to inspire the next generation of young Moroccans. Using the power of sport to make a positive impact on society is what motivated young Moroccan entrepreneur Hamza Chraïbi to found his non-profit organization Arab Excellence. By highlighting personal success stories in the Arab community, many of which come from the sporting world, Hamza has created a platform that offers young people in the Arab world the advice they need to take control of their destiny and become responsible citizens. Hamza is one of a group of young ambassadors from around the world, supported by the International Olympic Committee, who have pledged to live by Olympic values and inspire young people to do the same and take responsibility for themselves.

The IOC supports the work of the 206 National Olympic Committees around the world, as well as that of young leaders like Hamza, because, in different ways, they all set an example by putting sport at the service of communities.

Through their remarkable initiatives, they give today's youth hope and faith in their ability to realize their dreams and achieve their goals. In Morocco, they continue to perpetuate the legacy left by pioneers such as Nawal El Moutawakel and Hicham El Guerrouj. In doing so, they give today's young generation confidence in themselves and in their future.”

— Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee at the time of the statement