AMMAN, Jordan (April 19, 2026) – World Taekwondo Council Member and Taekwondo Humanitarian Foundation (THF) Operations Director Maher Magableh paid an official visit to Azraq Refugee Camp in Jordan on 19 April, joined by Jordan Taekwondo Federation Vice-President Hazem Naimat and Azraq Refugee Camp Head of Security Colonel Staff Rufifan Al Majali.
The visit was organised at the request of World Taekwondo President and THF Chairman Dr Chungwon Choue as a gesture of solidarity with the refugee community.
Upon arrival, the delegation was welcomed warmly by THF refugee athletes. Mr Magableh delivered an address on behalf of President Choue, conveying his greetings and unwavering support for refugees and displaced people.
The visit featured demonstration performances across Taekwondo, Badminton, Table Tennis, Volleyball and Baseball5, underlining World Taekwondo and the THF’s determination to work with other sports to empower young people at the Azraq Camp and beyond.
Volleyball and Table Tennis are among the newest additions to the THF’s work at the camp, having launched earlier this year with volunteer coaches giving their time three days a week and sessions running approximately 90 minutes each. Currently, around 40 students are enrolled in Volleyball and 20 in Table Tennis.
A milestone moment came when the latest black belt certificates were awarded to refugee athletes, bringing the total number of Taekwondo black belt holders at Azraq to 162.
The visit concluded with a working meeting between the delegation and the coaches and volunteers coordinating the programme. Discussions covered athlete welfare, the provision of medical care and nutritional support, and training plans aimed at preparing athletes to compete internationally and secure world rankings.
The Hope and Dreams Sports Festival, held annually, was set to be especially significant in 2026 as it would also mark the 10th anniversary of the Taekwondo Humanitarian Foundation (THF). However, the event could not take place due to ongoing air travel challenges in the Middle East.
The day after the visit on 20 April, the Olympic Refuge Foundation (ORF) held its Board Meeting online, during which ORF Chair Thomas Bach expressed his hope to convene next year’s meeting in Jordan during the Hope and Dreams Sports Festival, marking the ORF’s 10th anniversary in 2027.
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