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Saharul Peada, an employee at Decathlon Guwahati, journeyed from humble beginnings to becoming one of 1,500 global torchbearers for the Paris 2024 Paralympics. Supported by the Decathlon Foundation, he began his career at Decathlon in 2015 and grew through various roles, while also advocating for sports accessibility for underprivileged youth. His dedication led to the honor of carrying the Paralympic torch, a moment he describes as one of the happiest in his life, symbolizing how sports can transform lives and open global opportunities.
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“When I landed in Paris, and then got to hold the torch, it was one of the happiest moments of my life,” shares Saharul Peada, an employee at Decathlon Azara, Guwahati. This remarkable journey of over 7,000 km took him from his hometown in India to the grand stage of Paris 2024, where he proudly carried the Paralympic torch as one of the 1500 selected torchbearers worldwide.
Among the eight Decathlon employees who had this honor, Saharul’s story is one of perseverance and passion.
Saharul's journey began in 2007 when his mother enrolled him and his brother at Don Bosco Ashalayam, an NGO for children in need. His life took a pivotal turn when he joined Decathlon at 18, supported by the Decathlon Foundation. “I didn’t know what Decathlon was. When I first saw the store, it felt huge and amazing!” he recalls. Saharul started as a workshop technician in Indore, then moved to the Belapur store in Mumbai in 2021. Along the way, he learned to communicate, manage teams, and grow as a leader with the help of his mentors. Saharul’s dedication extended beyond work—he advocated for sports accessibility for underprivileged youth. “We visit schools and teach them to play rugby. Two kids I coached got selected for a national tournament.”
In 2022, Saharul got the opportunity of a lifetime—to volunteer for the Paris 2024 Olympics. Little did he know, he’d soon be selected as one of the torchbearers. “When I first saw the email, it was one of the happiest moments of my life. Only about 1,500 people got to carry the torch, and I’m one of them from India.” Saurabh Katyare, Store Leader at Decathlon Azara, reflects on Saharul’s journey: “Starting from our employability project to representing Decathlon on a global stage, Saharul’s story is nothing short of inspiring.”
“Sports can truly change your life,” says Saharul. “Working at Decathlon has helped me grow personally, support my family, and develop skills I never thought I’d have.” His journey from Guwahati to Paris stands as a testament to how sports can open doors and transform lives. As the Paralympic flame continues its journey, so does Saharul—an inspiration for athletes and dreamers everywhere.
Saharul Peada’s story is a shining example of how dedication, sports, and the right opportunities can change lives. From his humble beginnings in Guwahati to representing Decathlon on a global stage, his journey inspires not only those at Decathlon but also countless others worldwide.
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