For Wissam Trkmani — Secretary General of the Children of Asia International Committee, Director of Development and NOC Relations at the Olympic Council of Asia, and President of the Lebanese Teqball Federation — sport is much more than competition. It is a tool for shaping character, uniting the Asian continent, and building the future. In our interview, he shared how children’s tournaments can become the starting point of an Olympic journey, and why the energy of young athletes is his greatest reward.
Could you tell us where you are from, and how long you’ve been involved in sport?
— I am from Lebanon. I earned a degree in Business Administration in Lebanon and later completed a Master’s in Sport Management at the University of Ottawa. I have been working in sports administration since 2012. During this time, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC), and various international and Asian federations, supporting the organization of sporting events at different levels.
You have extensive experience working with various organizations. How did you first learn about the Children of Asia project?
— I first heard about it in 2012, but I became more closely acquainted with the organization in 2015. It happened during the visit of the former OCA President to Yakutsk where I learned about the Children of Asia International Committee.
Earlier this year you were elected Secretary General of the Children of Asia International Committee. What are your plans going forward?
— Our main goal is to strengthen the CAIC role as a platform for the development of children through sport, culture, and education. We plan to expand partnerships with Asian National Olympic Committees so that children not only compete, but also learn about values such as integrity, safety, safeguarding against manipulation, and healthy lifestyles.
This year you visited Yakutsk again. What are your impressions of the homeland of the Children of Asia Games?
— For me, Yakutsk is a very calm and hospitable city, an ideal place for children. It’s a beautiful place with excellent conditions for young people. I visited the CAIC headquarters, the Games Museum, the Permafrost Kingdom museum, met with the team, and took part in a Board meeting. It was a truly valuable and memorable experience.
In your opinion, how does sport influence a child’s development, and what is the current situation with youth sport in Asia?
— Sport plays a key role. It builds discipline, respect, teamwork, self-confidence, and teaches fair play. Through sport, children acquire fundamental life values that help them both in society and in personal growth. Asia is unique in its diversity. In some countries, sport is already highly developed with modern infrastructure, while others are still on their way. But what unites them all is the passion and natural talent of young people. Our mission at the CAIC is to help close this gap by providing equal opportunities and access to international competitions and educational programs.
What role does youth sport play in the Olympic Movement?
— In many countries, youth sport is overseen by government bodies. Our role is to use sport as a tool to unite young people, promote peace, and encourage cultural exchange across Asia. The uniqueness of the Children of Asia project is that it can become the very first step of a sporting career: from the Children of Asia Games to the Asian Youth Games, then the Asian Games, and ultimately the Olympic Games. The CAIC key role is to provide the foundation for future Olympians, to introduce them to Olympic values, and to strengthen the sporting community of Asia.
As an international sports manager, what inspires you to work with children in particular?
— The happiest moments in my career are those spent working with children. I am inspired by contributing to sport at its very foundation, where every athlete’s journey begins. Their energy, patience, and potential are incredibly motivating. Seeing how sport helps them dream, overcome challenges, and grow into leaders of the future — that is my greatest reward.
What advice would you give to children who are just beginning their sports journey?
— First of all, enjoy the process. Stay disciplined and never stop believing in yourself. Respect your coaches, teammates, and competitors. Remember that sport is not only about victories — it’s about values, constant learning, and shaping life principles.
And finally, what is your life motto?
— Through sport, we shape character, unity, and a brighter future.
