150 Participants Joined the Blackened Goggles Challenge in Nicosia to Promote Inclusion and Accessibility

On October 25, the Nicosia Olympic Swimming Pool hosted the Blackened Goggles Challenge, bringing together 150 participants for a unique hands-on experience designed to break barriers and foster empathy.

Organized by the “Through My Eyes” Karolina Pelendritou Foundation with the Kateryna Biloruska Foundation (KBF) as the official Charity Partner, the initiative invited participants to swim using blackened goggles—simulating the reality of visual impairment and offering a powerful perspective on navigating the world without sight.

Empowerment Through Perspective

More than just a swimming event, the Blackened Goggles Challenge served as a live platform for social inclusion, raising awareness about the daily challenges faced by people with visual impairments, while highlighting the transformative power of sport.

Three-time Paralympic Champion Karolina Pelendritou led the initiative, inspiring participants, young athletes, and community members to reflect on accessibility, equal opportunities, and mutual support.

“Our guiding principle at KBF is that no child or young person should be left out of the game,” shared the Kateryna Biloruska Foundation team. “Partnering with Karolina Pelendritou and her foundation allows us to create meaningful moments where society learns empathy through real experience. Seeing 150 people step into the shoes—and goggles—of visually impaired athletes is a strong testament to the power of sports in driving social change.”

Building Inclusive Communities

The event saw active participation from local youth, sports enthusiasts, and community members, creating an open atmosphere of learning and shared responsibility. By stepping into an unfamiliar environment, participants gained a deeper understanding of how accessibility and inclusive design can transform daily life and athletic spaces for everyone.

The Kateryna Biloruska Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to the organizers, volunteers, and every participant who dove into the pool to support disability awareness and champion equal opportunities.

Together, we continue to remove barriers and build a world where everyone belongs.