Manama, Bahrain, October 19, 2025: Wafa Al Sadeqi is 65. Jasim Nawaf is 13. The difference in ages does not matter for they are both part of the 2,001 volunteer-force at the 3rd Asian Youth Games in Bahrain.
“Wafa is our oldest volunteer while Jasim is the youngest. They have both come forward to give their service to the country for this is a historic occasion for Bahrain, the first time we are hosting such a big multi-sports event. This is our pride and joy,” says Maryam Mardana, Head of NOC Relations and Services at the Bahrain Asian Youth Games.
The 2,001 volunteers are almost equally split by gender – 959 females and 1,042 males – with overwhelming response to the programme with a massive number of applications, highlighting the community’s enthusiasm to contribute to this landmark moment.
“This force reflects a balanced and diverse participation and was recruited through the official registration platform and BAYG’s official social media accounts,” explains Ms. Khulood Mohamed, Head of the Volunteers.
While the Games officially begin with the Opening Ceremony on October 22, the volunteers have already swung into action. For the past few days a sizable group has been stationed at the Bahrain Airport welcoming athlete delegations from the 45 National Olympic Committees across Asia.
On Sunday, competition began in some team sports and the volunteers were at the venues. Another lot has been allocated to the hotels where NOC officials and athletes are billeted. They are on hand to support the NOCs, handle transportation and logistics, support medical and health services, assist the media, and be at competition venues.
“We held a series of intensive training sessions over the last few months with orientation on specific roles, how to culturally interact with the rest of Asia, and had team-building workshops,” Khulood revealed.
Paying tribute to the volunteers, she added: “As this is the first time Bahrain is hosting an event of this magnitude, the organising committee is extremely proud of the volunteer’s strong engagement and sense of dedication. Their spirit of giving and sense of belonging is playing a key role in the success of the Games.”
