- January 16, 2026
- DawnRatte
- No Comments
Meet Benjamin Nascimento!
What team do you participate on?
I’ve been a proud team member of the East Providence Townies since 2018.
What sports do you compete in?
Basketball, volleyball & cornhole. Of these sports, my favorite is basketball because I love to shoot baskets. I also enjoy competing in multiple sports to get to know more athletes and to represent my town.
Where did you go to school?
I graduated from East Providence High School in 2024. I’m currently in the transition program there.
Do you have a job? If so, tell us about it.
I don’t currently have a job, but the type of job I’d like to pursue is broadcast news. I love people, news media outlets, and attending school committee and city council meetings in my city. I follow community politics and enjoy watching East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva share videos of events and information pertaining to my community. He is very nice.
Why did you choose to participate in the Athlete Leadership University (ALU)?
I wanted to represent athletes. My involvement in ALU has given me opportunities to be an athlete ambassador at a few events and I have really enjoyed it. For example, I was one of the athlete representatives for Dunkin’ when one of their locations was having a grand reopening.
What have you accomplished through your involvement with ALU?
I have been able to apply leadership skills and experience leadership opportunities. ALU taught me how to speak with ease in front of people. This is something I couldn’t do prior to enrolling in ALU. The program also taught me that anyone can lead and that my disability is actually my ability.
What do you enjoy doing for fun?
Cornhole, basketball, volleyball and spending time with family. I especially like watching the Chiefs football team with my family!
Is there anything else about yourself that you would like to share?
Special Olympics has given me a sense of community. I’ve been able to participate with my peers and play sports that I love. It is an honor to represent my community and town.
The Athlete Spotlight Series
The Athlete Spotlight series shines a light on remarkable individuals from Special Olympics Rhode Island who are either currently enrolled in or have successfully completed our Athlete Leadership University program. These inspiring athletes undergo comprehensive leadership training, acquiring both knowledge and skills. Through hands-on experiences in roles of responsibility, they collaborate with leaders who do not have intellectual or developmental disabilities, contributing to the development of inclusive environments. Join us in celebrating these dedicated individuals and their impactful journey within our community!