Paralympic champion and swimmer Natali Pronina-Rajabli continues to lead impactful initiatives aimed at promoting grassroots sports, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and discovering young talents.
Idman.biz reports that Pronina-Rajabli is the founder and head of the public union “Stand United, Win Together.”
Together with her husband, Jasur Rajabli, and a team of like-minded supporters, she is organizing a special event dedicated to June 1 – International Day for Protection of Children.
Speaking to our website, Pronina-Rajabli shared insights about the event:
“It will be an active day full of joy, movement, relay games, and the vibrant spirit of childhood. Two teams of ten children will participate in a game-relay format. But this isn’t just about fun – it’s a space where children will feel part of a team, hear voices of encouragement, and build self-confidence.
What makes this year even more special is that we’re organizing the event in an inclusive format – the relays are adapted for children with disabilities. This is an opportunity for equality, strength, and togetherness for all children.”
She also highlighted the broader work of her organization:
“Over the past two years, ‘Stand United, Win Together’ has held 26 mobile events in villages and towns across the country. More than 1,000 children have taken part so far – and we’ve discovered dozens of truly gifted kids. Some have already joined sports clubs and are making remarkable progress.”
Despite these successes, Pronina-Rajabli emphasized the need for support:
“We’re now at the threshold of a new, vital phase – launching structured inclusive programs that reach even more children. But we can’t do it alone – we truly need support.”
She added:
“Right now, we’re just a small group of people who truly believe in what we do. We carry out all these activities without sponsorship or institutional backing. But I won’t hide it – while preparing for the June 1 event, we’re missing some essentials: technical equipment and commemorative gifts to reward the teams at the end. We usually never ask for help. But when it comes to children, I sincerely hope for the understanding and support of everyone.”
Pronina-Rajabli also shared her thoughts on the importance of investing in youth sports:
“Each of us was once in their shoes. Yes, today we are champions, record-holders, heroes. But we all once needed support. So did I. Maybe if someone had supported me as a child, my journey in sport would have been easier and longer.
I dream of a future where every child in Azerbaijan has the opportunity to play sports – and where that opportunity comes with real support. Even if it doesn’t always come from the government, let it come from us – those who’ve walked this path.
Our efforts haven’t been in vain. They’ve been recognized by our country’s leadership. I deeply respect President Ilham Aliyev’s policies, especially his commitment to supporting sports – something I’ve personally felt in my own career.
I sincerely believe that every champion and every athlete has a responsibility to contribute to the development of youth and grassroots sports. We must not stay indifferent. These children are our future – and the future of a strong nation depends on them.”
Zaki Feyzullayev
Idman.biz
