About Us
A Global Organisation Built Around Athletes
International Athletes for Democracy was founded on a simple belief: that every athlete, regardless of where they come from, deserves a fair chance to train, study, and compete.
Our Story
Why We Exist
International athletes can face challenges when trying to understand sporting, educational and development opportunities in unfamiliar systems. Access to trusted guidance, experienced mentors and the right networks can make an important difference.
International Athletes for Democracy was established to help selected athletes better understand and pursue legitimate opportunities to train, study and compete. We provide mentorship, guidance and access to relevant sporting, educational and community networks.
Our approach is athlete-centred, inclusive and non-partisan, with a focus on opportunity, education, dignity and personal development.
Our Mission
To support international athletes by providing mentorship, guidance, educational and sporting pathways, and access to networks that help them pursue opportunities to train, study and compete — while promoting equality of opportunity, inclusion, dignity and human rights in sport.
What We Do
Our Role
IAD provides guidance, mentorship and connections designed to help athletes understand and explore appropriate sporting and educational opportunities.
Mentorship
Connecting athletes with experienced people who can provide practical guidance and support.
Sporting & Educational Pathways
Helping athletes understand legitimate opportunities to train, study and compete.
Networks & Connections
Facilitating access to relevant sporting, educational and community networks where appropriate.
Free Athlete Support
IAD's services to participating athletes are provided without charge.
IAD is not a recruitment agency, legal representative or immigration adviser and does not guarantee scholarships, placements, visas, university admission or sporting selection.
Our Values
What We Stand For
Equality of Opportunity
We believe that talent and determination — not nationality, background, or circumstance — should determine an athlete's path. We work to help create a more level playing field.
Inclusion
Sport is most powerful when it reflects the full diversity of humanity. We work to ensure athletes from all backgrounds feel welcome, supported, and valued.
Dignity
Every athlete we work with is treated with respect and care. We recognise the commitment it takes to pursue a sporting career far from home.
Human Rights in Sport
We support the rights of athletes within sporting systems and institutions — because sport should be a space where rights are respected and protected.
Non-Partisan by Principle
International Athletes for Democracy is committed to remaining non-partisan. Our activities are focused on sport, education, athlete opportunity, inclusion and dignity rather than political campaigning or endorsement. We welcome people and organisations who support these shared values and the organisation's mission.
Governance
Leadership & Governance
International Athletes for Democracy is governed by a Board responsible for strategic direction, financial oversight, policy approval and organisational governance.
Iraj Ahrabi Fard
President
Biography coming soon.
Iraj Yousafi
Vice President
Biography coming soon.
Farhad Habibian
Director
Biography coming soon.
Reza Soleimani
Treasurer / Director
Biography coming soon.
Ready to Get Involved?
Whether you are an athlete seeking guidance, a university or club interested in partnership, a potential mentor or volunteer, or someone who wants to support our mission, there is a place for you to get involved.