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Breaking Limits: The Journey Beyond Disability | Shams Aalam | TEDxVCE

What does it take to turn life’s biggest challenges into extraordinary triumphs? In this powerful talk, Shams Aalam shares his journey from a national karate champion to a world-ranked para-swimmer after becoming paraplegic. Through grit, resilience, and unwavering determination, he has shattered records — including a historic 13 km open-water swim in the Ganges — while championing accessibility and inclusion in sports. Shams inspires audiences to redefine their own limitations, embrace challenges as opportunities, and harness the human spirit to achieve the impossible. His story is a testament to courage, perseverance, and the transformative power of purpose. Mohammad Shams Aalam Shaikh is a world-ranked para-swimmer, disability rights advocate, and motivational speaker. Once a national karate champion, he turned to swimming after becoming paraplegic, breaking records—including a historic 13 km open-water swim in the Ganges. A TEDx speaker and global sports mentor, he champions accessibility and inclusion through sport. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

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