Siemens Healthineers knows how determination, joy and unity look

Siemens Healthineers is a brilliant company to work for and has a very strong track record in supporting people of all abilities, both in and outside the workplace.

Siemens Healthineers joined 750 volunteers to help 1,500 athletes shine—on and off the field at the Special Olympics Bayern in Erlangen, Germany—as they competed, connected, and celebrated the power of sport.

"1500 athletes showed us what determination, joy, and unity look like in motion," said Siemens Healthineers.

Supporting a truly significant event

The event celebrates courage, determination, and inclusion. It is the world's largest sports movement for people with intellectual and multiple disabilities. With 142 delegations and nearly 1500 participants in 19 different disciplines, the Bavarian State Games are the most significant inclusive sports event in Bavaria.

"Every race, handshake, and cheer showed how support and encouragement can change these athletes' lives on the field and far beyond. It is a powerful reminder of how sports bring us all together," said the company. "Thanks to everyone who brought their time, energy, and purpose to this event."

A powerful expression of Siemens Healthineers as a company

One Siemens Healthineers volunteer was Carolin Franz, Head of Human Resources for Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA), who said on her Linked In post about the event: "For me, it all began with a magical moment: The lighting of the flame at Monday’s opening ceremony. I was deeply moved by the athletes - their strength, their spirit, and their unwavering willpower. Witnessing that moment was both humbling and inspiring. What makes me especially proud is the outstanding commitment of our employees. Over 80 Healthineers volunteered, contributing more than 1,500 hours to support athletes, coordinate logistics, and help create a joyful, seamless experience. This is more than just volunteering. It is a powerful expression of who we are as a company. We live our values through action. We promote inclusive workplaces where everyone can thrive. We break down barriers for people with disabilities."

"Alongside some members of our EMEA DE&I Council, I had the privilege of volunteering myself. Together with Bernd Ohnesorge and Jörg Volleth, Mayor of Erlangen, I helped present medals in the 5k run and shot put events. Seeing the pride and pure joy on the athletes’ faces was unforgettable. A heartfelt congratulations to all the athletes, and a sincere thank you to Special Olympics Bavaria, the city of Erlangen, and every single volunteer who made this event possible. Let’s keep the spirit alive! Let’s keep pushing for inclusion," continued Carolin.

Her colleague, Séverine Ploner, also supported the event, saying. "The athletes really poured their hearts into the race all the way to the finish line. Their energy and spirit totally inspired me to get involved. You can learn so much from experiences like this."

Following the ceremony, Siemens Healthineers had the privilege of hosting the official state reception with the Bavarian Minister of Interior and Sport, Joachim Hermann.

Reflecting Siemens Healthineers values

For Siemens Healthineers, the event wasn’t just an event, it was a celebration of:

Support - where every athlete is encouraged, uplifted, and celebrated.
Teamwork - volunteers and athletes moving as one.
Connection – sport as a bridge that brings everyone together.

"Proud to be part of something that reflects the values we live every day," said Siemens Healthineers.

When Siemens Healthineers was announced as the first top sponsor of the 2025 Special Olympics Bayern (SOBY), Dr. Bernd Ohnesorge, President for Europe, Middle East & Africa at Siemens Healthineers said: "Siemens Healthineers promotes diversity, variety and inclusion in our daily interactions. We are proud to be a top sponsor of the Special Olympics Bavaria. Athletes will show impressive sporting performances. We are looking forward to the many athletes, coaches and teams of helpers and will actively support them. We want to actively live inclusion and set an example for diversity."

The partnership between Siemens Healthineers and SOBY focuses on inclusive encounters, with employees of the company supporting the national games as volunteers, enabling them to experience the unifying and inclusive power of sport as well as the joy and openness of the Special Olympics athletes. In addition to purely supporting the largest inclusive multi-sport event in Bavaria in 2025, corporate volunteering also creates awareness and recognition for the needs and achievements of athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Great support Siemens Healthineers!