Abdi Salam Ali

"In my home country of Somalia, I had the privilege of attending a good school and spending my free time with friends on the sports field. As a result, I had very good starting conditions after fleeing to Switzerland and therefore know how important a good education is for life. As an ambassador for Right To Play, I want to help make this accessible to as many children as possible."

Abdi Salam Ali is one of the great young talents in running. He trains with LC Uster and has achieved numerous top rankings and course records in recent years – at the Swiss U20 Championships, the Swiss Elite Championships, and various major Swiss races. Abdi is also involved as a co-trainer with the Generali Running Family of the Generali Group.

After arriving in Switzerland from Somalia in 2016 at the age of 14, Abdi integrated quickly, completed an art and sports school, and started an apprenticeship. Passion, perseverance, and determination characterize this exceptional athlete and pave his way to the top of Swiss running.

Abdi's life embodies the values and mission of Right To Play: to enable children and young people from disadvantaged regions to find their way to a hopeful and self-determined future through the power of sport and play.