Taliena Howden

How many years have you been involved with Special Olympics?

I have been involved with Special Olympics for 2 years.

Why did you first get involved with Special Olympics and how has it changed your life?

I started volunteering with Special Olympics PEI in 2023 after seeing a request for volunteers. I had no experience with coaching swimming and wanted to learn new skills and give time back to my PEI community. Being a part of Special Olympics has brought so much joy into my life. Seeing the athletes challenge themselves to master techniques and show up not only for themselves but for each other has truly taught me so much about being a part of a team. The energy, the comradery, and support is unparalleled to any other sport event I have been a part of. Whether it's at a weekly practice or at a competition, everyone is cheered for, everyone is celebrated, everyone is welcomed for who they are as they are.

What are you most looking forward to at the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games?

I'm thrilled to simply be a part of the 2026 SOC Summer Games. To represent PEI, meet athletes and coaches from across Canada, while witnessing the hard work, dedication, and talent of each PEI athlete firsthand is something that I feel will be a life changing experience.

What is your favourite Special Olympics moment?

My favourite Special Olympics moment was with working with a new athlete who was trying a stroke for the first time. I walked beside them and counted each stroke they did out loud as we had agreed to stop at 12. When the athlete stopped, I asked them to look back and see how far they had swam. Seeing the pride in their eyes as they realized that they had swam over half the length of the pool was wonderful and seeing the confidence it gave the athlete was an amazing moment.

What does being a part of Team PEI 2026 mean to you?

Being a part of Team PEI 2026 means being a part of something bigger than myself. It means supporting the health and goals of each individual athlete and of the entire swim team. It means collaborating with coaches and mission staff from across PEI to create an unforgettable experience while showcasing the incredible talent of PEI athletes.