John
Willis
Charity Founder and Chief Ambassador at Power2Inspire
Sport
I was born without fully formed arms and legs. As a child, I was excluded from sport and left on the bench. I have made it my mission to ensure no one else is ever has to experience this feeling. Growing up, my mother used to tell me that I can do ‘anything’. She wasn’t wrong. I’ve since adapted this and my mantra has become I can’t do it.. yet!
In 2013 I joined forces with my able bodied friends to complete in a triathlon – this highlighted my ability to take part in a mixed ability team, but more importantly showed me what is possible – and that sport really is for everyone. It was here my charity’s mission was established – inclusion through sport.
I continued my fundraising challenges with a swimming challenge in 2015, completing 50 1,000m swims in 100 days around the country and talking at every school and club along the way.
In 2016 in the run up to the Olympic and Paralympic Games, I embarked upon another challenge, JohnsRoad2Rio, in which I completed all 34 Olympic and Paralympic sports.
Most recently, I’ve celebrated the charity’s 10 year anniversary by paddling 108 miles across the River Thames.
My charity, Power2Inspire, provides inclusive and accessible sports opportunities across the country for everyone to enjoy, regardless of ability, disability, gender, age or faith.
There have been times where I didn’t think I could make it to the end of my challenges, times where I’ve been really tested – but I hope I serve as an example that anything is possible. Sport is for all!
“It’s an honour to be included in this year’s Disability Power. It’s great to see the work of so many disabled people showcased on the national stage. If it empowers just one person to get involved with sport… or realise that they’re able to take part and that they are not left on the bench – it’s absolutely worthwhile! Remember… you can’t do it… yet!”
Disability Power 100 2023 profile information has been self-submitted by the profile subject. Shaw Trust understands and respects that disability and impairment descriptors and language use varies from person to person. Shaw Trust assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or discrepancies in the content of this, or any other, profile page.
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