Enriching lives at the 2026 Joy of Sport Gala presented by Wheaton Precious Metals

On October 22, leaders from across B.C.'s sport and business communities came together at Vancouver's Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel to celebrate the Special Olympics athletes who inspire us, the moments that move us, and the connections that change lives.

Formerly known as the Sports Celebrities Festival, the Joy of Sport Gala continues a proud tradition of championing inclusion and respect for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Since 1998, the event has raised more than $11.5 million to help Special Olympics BC athletes build confidence, friendships, skills, and community through sport.

Most importantly, the evening celebrated the joy that sport brings and the way it helps people feel connected, valued, and included.

The funds raised through the Joy of Sport Gala will help Special Olympics BC deliver year-round sport, youth, and health programs for more than 3,500 athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities in 55 communities across the province.

Learn about the Joy of Sport Gala

Speaking alongside her mother Sarb and younger brother Arjan, who are also both Special Olympics BC volunteers, Jeevan shared what Special Olympics BC has meant to her.

"Since joining Special Olympics, I have made many friendships that will last a lifetime," she said.

Jeevan spoke about the support she has received from teammates and friends over the years and the pride she feels in being part of the Special Olympics community.

For Sarb, what started as a chance for Jeevan to participate in sports quickly became something much bigger.

"When Jeevan first got involved with Special Olympics, I hoped she would have an opportunity to participate in sports, make friends, and become more confident. What we got was a whole lot more," Sarb said.

Over the years, the entire Basra family has become involved in Special Olympics BC. Sarb and her husband volunteer with programs, while Jeevan's siblings and extended family members have also stepped up to support athletes and competitions.

"It is such a great feeling to be part of a community that values every member, lifts each other up, and cheers loud and proud for each and every one."

Arjan, now a floorball and bocce coach and a provincial award-winning volunteer, reflected on the lessons he has learned growing up alongside Jeevan.

"True inclusion means creating an environment where individuals feel understood, respected, and supported," he said.

A heartfelt thanks to all of the generous Joy of Sport Gala sponsors, donors, celebrities, volunteers, and supporters who once again made this year’s event so successful.

Our Generous Sponsors

Presenting Sponsor

Wheaton Precious Metals

Platinum Sponsor

TD Bank Group

Table Sponsor

Beedie

Athlete Send-Off Sponsor

Navacord

Photo Booth Sponsor

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Event Sponsors

Fairmont Pacific Rim and Palladio Jewellers

Media Sponsors

Jack 96.9

Community Partners

Blast Media Print and Heritage Office Furnishings