In the past year, there’s been lots of talk about diversity and inclusion in sports. And while much of the focus has been on race and gender identity, there’s also been progress for people with disabilities. See: The Special Olympics World Games (aka “the world’s largest inclusive sports event”), which starts today and includes 7,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities.

To learn more, we spoke with the Games’ Champion Ambassador and ESPN SportsCenter host Victoria Arlen, who’s been deeply involved in the inclusion movement, both personally and professionally. Here’s what she had to say…

Q: You spent four years “locked” inside your own body, unable to move or speak. What did you learn from that experience?

When I was 11, I developed two incredibly rare neurological conditions that shut my body down. I wasn’t expected to make it — let alone come out of a vegetative state and be here speaking, walking, and living the life I live today … I learned that the world is not built or designed for individuals who have mobility challenges. You have to find your voice and use it to make a difference, not only for yourself, but for others too.

Q: Has that influenced your involvement with the Special Olympics?

Absolutely. I’m determined to make sure that every athlete feels heard and seen and never on the sidelines, whether that individual has a physical or intellectual disability or anything that makes them different. I feel blessed to be able to be a part of the “Inclusion Revolution” ... the Special Olympics is the truest, strongest, and purest example of what sport is ... and what happens when no one’s on the sideline, when everyone gets to be an athlete.

Q: Why should more people tune in to the Special Olympics?

Because the power of sport is incredible. We all want something to believe in. We all want to be inspired. We all want to feel something. And the Special Olympics gives you all of that … It’s athletes who have overcome insurmountable odds, who have traveled over thousands and thousands of miles to get here … And these athletes, they’re the first ones that would cheer for you. So let’s cheer for them.