Young disability activist Ghanim Al Muftah, who has a huge online following, was one of the standout performers at the FIFA World Cup 2022 opening ceremony in Doha on Sunday night, which was seen by thousands of people all over the world.
Al Muftah, 22, stole the show while sharing the stage with Morgan Freeman during the ceremony at the tent-shaped Al Bayt Stadium.
In a performance with the themes of tolerance and unity, the young Qatari read a verse from the Quran and assisted the actor in welcoming everyone.
“We sent out the call because everyone is welcome. This is an invitation to the whole world,” said Al Muftah, dressed in a thobe and walking to the stage with the use of his hands.
Then, reciting a verse from the Quran, he added: “We were raised to believe that we were scattered on this earth as nations and tribes, so we could learn from each other and find beauty in our differences.”
“I can see it,” Freeman replied. “What unites us here, at this moment, is so much greater than what divides us. How can we make it last longer than just today?”
“With tolerance and respect, we can live together under one big home,” Al Muftah replied.
Sunday’s 30-minute ceremony was meant to introduce Qatar to the world through its culture and with a theme of “bridging distances”.
The show also featured a performance by BTS member Jung Kook and Qatari singer Fahad Al Kubaisi, who sang the single Dreamers, produced specifically for the World Cup.
“We have worked hard, along with many people, to make it one of the most successful tournaments,” said Sheikh Tamim, Emir of Qatar, in his opening ceremony speech.
“We have exerted all efforts and invested for the good of all humanity. How beautiful it is for people to put aside what divides them in order to celebrate their diversity and what brings them together at the same time.”
About Ghanim Al Muftah
Ghanim Al-Muftah was born on May 5-2002. He was born with a rare condition known as Caudal Regression Syndrome (CDS).
However, he learned to confront challenges with optimism and leadership, which is what makes him a unique and inspirational figure, rather than allowing the illness to limit his life. He is now finishing his undergraduate degree in political science intending to work as a diplomat.
Ghanim likes to engage in extreme sports including scuba diving, skating, and rock climbing despite his disabilities.
The young Youtuber launched Gharissa Ice Cream, a company based in Qatar creating a five-star ice cream experience.
Ghanim has acquired the franchise rights for Gharissa Ice Cream and has hopes to expand his franchise abroad and across the entire Gulf region.
Ghanim believes that being an entrepreneur entails more than just starting one or many businesses. Ghanim’s entrepreneurial drive is best exemplified by his vision of risk-taking innovative ideas that push on with the creation of new jobs in the face of challenges.