Nine hundred athletes with disability are currently training with the Special Olympics team, Parliamentary Secretary for Persons with Disability Anthony Agius Decelis said on Sunday.

The organisation, which has been providing training since 1999, has given more than 400 athletes with disability the opportunity to compete internationally and won the Active Participation in Sports award on Sunday at the third edition of Premju Soċjetà Ġusta.

These awards honour people with disability, with the aim of promoting activism.

An independent board selecting the winners was set up last year, consisting of two journalists and activists involved with disabled people.

Meanwhile, Bridget Micallef won an award for her work as a typist at the House of Representatives.

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“Despite losing her sight at a young age, Bridget’s success and determination led her to work as part of the team in the House of Representatives,” Mr Agius Decelis said.

The Deaf People Association was recognised for its work in making Maltese people more conscious about the culture and needs of people with hearing impairments.

Bjorn Formosa, who stole the hearts of the Maltese nation through his work for the ALS foundation, claimed the award for perseverance.

Mr Formosa was a clear example of dedication and determination.

“He believed in his dreams, which became reality. Many will benefit as a result of his work,” Mr Agius Decelis said.

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Mr Formosa opened a house for patients with neuro-degenerative diseases in Qormi, last month.

The Premju Soċjetà Ġusta 2017 was won by Isabelle Bonello for her work as an activist for the rights of people with intellectual disabilities.