Meet Soraya Jordan

Soraya Jordan has a smile that arrives before she does.

Whether she's stepping onto a bocce court, greeting a teammate, or meeting someone for the first time, the 50-year-old from Virginia has a way of making people feel like they've known her for years. Her enthusiasm for Special Olympics is impossible to miss.

From June 20-27, she's headed to Minneapolis for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, where she'll compete in bocce as one of 57 athletes representing Team Virginia. It's a moment built on decades of hard work, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace every opportunity that came her way.

Born in the Netherlands and diagnosed with autism at a young age, Soraya moved to Virginia with her family when she was 15 years old. Adjusting to a new country brought challenges, especially learning English.

There was a time when a teacher doubted she would ever become fluent. Soraya had other plans. With determination, daily practice, and the support of her mother, Margaretha Jordan, she proved otherwise.

After moving to Virginia, a teacher introduced Soraya to Special Olympics. What began as an activity soon became one of the most important parts of her life.

Over the years, she has competed in bowling, swimming, baseball, tennis, gymnastics, cheer, downhill skiing, and bocce. Along the way, she has won medals, traveled to competitions across Virginia, and formed friendships that continue to this day.

For Margaretha, Special Olympics has transformed her daughter's life.

"If Special Olympics wasn't here, she would be at home," she said.

Instead, Soraya found a place where she could challenge herself, connect with others, and be part of something bigger than herself.

"You need to meet people and be among friends. That's Special Olympics," Margaretha said.

Soraya has been preparing for her first USA Games with the determination that has defined her throughout her life. She trains with her team and practices at home, eager for the opportunity to compete on one of the biggest stages in Special Olympics.

The Games are about more than medals. They're about representing Virginia, celebrating years of hard work, and sharing the experience with athletes from across the country. Soraya knows what it means to work for something, whether it's learning a new language, mastering a new sport, or standing on a podium with a gold medal around her neck.

When she steps onto the bocce court in Minneapolis, she'll carry with her the resilience that helped her learn English when others doubted she could and the work ethic that has guided her through every challenge she's faced.

For Soraya, Special Olympics isn't just something she does. It's part of who she is.