Magnús embodies the spirit of sports in Cyprus

When sports directors met in Cyprus for Special Olympics Europe and Eurasia Athletic Conference In October 2025, the focus was on strengthening sports, expanding opportunities, and shaping the future of Special Olympics. For Magnus, the conference represented something more personal, a meaningful next chapter in his own journey.

“It’s so much fun to meet all these people and connect with them and talk about sports and what we can do at the time and what we have to bring to Special Olympics,” Magnus explained.

But Magnus wasn’t there as an athlete, he was there as a videographer. One video, already live, captures the purpose and atmosphere of the conference. The second video, currently in progress, includes interviews with event leaders, including sports directors and conference organizers from multiple countries.

This opportunity did not come by chance. Magnus began working with Special Olympics in 2019.

“I was competing as a gymnast in Abu Dhabi “And Dubai 2019,” he said. “After the Games, I created commercial videos for it Special Olympics Iceland-Interviewing athletes and coaches. From there the ball started rolling, and I was very happy to have this opportunity.”

In 2024, after working on projects in Iceland and attending a sports conference in Berlin where he worked on Special Olympics Europe and Eurasia, he was invited to Cyprus to produce content.

“This shows that all people with disabilities can do everything,” Magnus said. “I use my filmmaking skills to give people the opportunity to work in media and TV shows.”

Back home in Iceland, Magnus has not only witnessed the impact of expanded opportunities, but also helped create them. From strengthening national preparation efforts to amplifying athletes’ voices, his leadership has shaped how Iceland emerges on the world stage. In particular, he produced a 42-minute documentary that captures Iceland’s preparation and participation, preserving the story of the athletes, coaches and community behind the trip and sharing it with audiences beyond the competition.

“I see a big difference,” he said. “People are very happy with me and my work.” “People see that I’m doing a great job.”

But what drives him most is helping others move forward.

“I try to give other people the opportunity to shine,” Magnus said. “I think it’s important for people to shine,” Magnus said. “We have to stand together to open our eyes and see what is possible.”