Christopher Samuda makes history as Americas paralympic vice president
SANTIAGO, Chile — In a landmark moment for regional sports leadership, Christopher Samuda, President of the Jamaica Paralympic Committee, has been elected Vice President of the Americas Paralympic Committee (AmPC) for the subregion encompassing the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean.
The election took place during the General Assembly of the AmPC, the governing body representing 34 national Paralympic committees across North, South, and Central America, as well as the Caribbean.
Samuda, a sitting director of the organization, triumphed over Marc-André Fabien, President of the Canadian Paralympic Committee, to secure the historic post — making him the first Vice President for the subregion since the role’s creation following amendments to the AmPC’s statutes in 2023.
A vision beyond victory
In reflecting on his election, Samuda emphasized that his success transcends personal achievement.
“This is far from being a personal victory,” Samuda declared. “It is a commitment to the athletes of the Caribbean and the Americas whom we serve — athletes whose interests and welfare remain paramount in the regional sporting construct.”
His appointment, which spans a four-year term, places him at the forefront of advancing inclusivity, governance, and athlete development within the hemisphere’s Paralympic movement.
A strengthened Americas Paralympic Movement
The Assembly also confirmed the re-election of Colombian Julio César Ávila Sarria as President, after he defeated Daniel Facal, head of the Uruguay Paralympic Committee. Together, the new executive will steer the AmPC into a pivotal era following its operational independence from the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) in 2023.
That milestone transferred ownership of the Para Pan American Senior and Youth Games directly to the Americas body, giving it full control over the strategic direction, execution, and legacy of the continent’s premier Paralympic events.
Custodians of dreams and duty
For Samuda, this newfound autonomy is both empowering and sobering. He underscored the profound responsibility that comes with the AmPC’s expanded mandate.
“Ownership of the Games vests in us, and we are custodians of the aspirations of thousands of sportsmen, women, and youth,” he affirmed. “My executive board colleagues and I recognize that this is a privilege that comes with a fiduciary obligation to create value and deliver tangible results for them — the human capital of sport.”
His remarks encapsulate a broader philosophy that has defined his tenure in sports administration: transforming governance into service and leadership into stewardship.
Charting a new course for the region
As Vice President, Samuda will oversee the affairs of his subregion, working closely with stakeholders to strengthen athlete representation, expand developmental programs, and advocate for greater investment in Paralympic sports.
His election also symbolizes a growing Caribbean presence in international sports governance — a testament to the region’s commitment to equality, empowerment, and excellence across all levels of competition.
With this new chapter, Samuda steps onto a continental stage where his advocacy for athletes with disabilities will help shape the future of Paralympic port throughout the Americas.
